Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient for the human body that plays a critical role in several important functions, including producing red blood cells, DNA synthesis, and nerve function.
Unfortunately, experts warn, Vit B12 can be dangerous if not taken in the appropriate dosage and at the right time.
Associated risks
According to nutrition expert, Dr. Pelumi Adelaja, the most common risk associated with vitamin B12 is an overdose, warning, “Too much of this nutrient can cause adverse effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and even serious health issues such as liver or kidney damage.”
Vitamin B12 is also unable to be adequately absorbed without certain acids found in the stomach or intestine, which can make the consequences of an overdose even more serious, Adelaja warns.
Another risk associated with vitamin B12 is the potential for interactions with other medications.
While vitamin B12 is generally considered safe, it can react negatively with certain medications, such as certain antibiotics and chemotherapy drugs. “Thus, it’s important to speak to your doctor before combining vitamin B12 and any other medications,” the nutritionist said.
It’s also important to note that some people with health conditions like pernicious anemia may have difficulty absorbing enough vitamin B12 from food, potentially increasing their risk of deficiency.
Vegans and vegetarians
In addition, vegans and vegetarians are at an increased risk for developing a vitamin B12 deficiency, and thus, might require supplementation of this nutrient.
Too much of Vit B12 can cause adverse effects like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and even serious health issues such as liver or kidney damage
“However, due to the risks associated with vitamin B12, it is important that these individuals speak to their doctor about the appropriate dosage and timing of supplementation,” Adelaja counsels.
Importance of Vit B12
Vitamin B12 is an important nutrient for us all, and it is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It helps in energy production, brain functioning, and maintaining a healthy nervous system.
When taken in the right dosage, these supplements can be beneficial in terms of providing the body with its daily requirement of B12. Although rare, an overdose of these supplements is very possible, General Physician Dr. Kikelomo Adesomoju warns.
Experts say that Vit B12, also called cobalamin, is one of the eight B vitamins and they help the body to convert food (carbohydrates) into fuel (glucose), which is used to produce energy.
“These B vitamins, often referred to as B complex vitamins, also help the body to use fats and protein,” Adesomoju explains.
Continuing, the physician says, “I know that cobalamin is also water-soluble and can be easily excreted, but always make sure you’re following the recommended daily allowance (RDA) to avoid any negative effects.”
Recommended daily dosage
She adds that everyone does not have the same daily requirement for vitamin B12, noting that a person’s age and stage of life will affect how much vitamin B12 they need.
The recommended daily allowance of vitamin B12 is listed as follows:
“Higher doses may be necessary for certain individuals, but only when prescribed by a doctor who has your medical records,” Dr. Chukwuma Obi says.
everyone does not have the same daily requirement for vitamin B12. A person’s age and stage of life will affect how much vitamin B12 they need
“What determines the dangerousness of cobalamin is the quality or type of the supplement you’re taking. Always make sure it’s verified for purity and potency, and check the label for expiration dates, purity claims, and any potential contamination,” the doctor adds.
Takeaway
Too much of anything is bad; even too much water can be dangerous. Always stick to what is recommended. Make sure that you take vitamin B12 in the right amount and only when it is prescribed to you by a doctor.
