What Is a Vitamin B12 Injection?
A vitamin B12 injection is typically prescribed by doctors for those suffering from low vitamin B12 levels. A B12 shot normally contains one form of B12 and can be any of the four types of B12 available , however we only recommend Methylcobalamin and Hydroxocobalamin as these are bioavailable to the body.
It’s water-soluble, so the body does not store it and many of us are susceptible to not getting enough B12 from our diets. Luckily, there is an easy solution, just get a vitamin B12 shot! So, what exactly is a vitamin B12 injection.
What are the possible side effects of B12 injection?
It’s important to say that, side effects are very rare.
- It’s important to say that, side effects are very rare. The most common side effect is at the site of the injection and can last up to 5-20 minutes.
- In some cases, particularly high doses of B12, it can trigger a breakout of acne, this can last for a few weeks, this could also be due to a lack of Biotin, supplementing with a safe dose of Biotin can help to resolve this side effect.
What Are The Health Benefits of Vitamin B12?
- Vitamin B12 shots can help your body in a myriad of ways, B12 is particularly important for cell growth in the central nervous system and is therefore essential for the normal function of your nerve cells.
- Vitamin B12 is also needed for red blood cell formation and DNA synthesis . Below is a list of key functions of how B12 can help us.
Below is a list of key functions of how B12 can help us.
Prevents Anaemia
Getting a B12 shot can help to prevent anaemia because it supports the erythropoiesis process. Erythropoiesis is the process where red blood cells are produced in the bone marrow which is triggered by the erythropoietin hormone.
Alleviates Anxiety
B12 can help fight mood swings, loss of focus and depression in a number of ways. One way it does this is by synthesising melatonin , dopamine and serotonin, the chemical messengers that influence your moods. Regular B12 shots can play a huge part in improving your mood.
Improves Sleep
As well as regulating your mood, melatonin also controls your sleeping pattern and if you’re suffering from a B12 deficiency, a common side effect is being unable to sleep and then feeling tired throughout the day.
Boosts Energy
B12 assists in the process of converting food into glucose in the liver, which the body requires for energy production.
Improves Brain Power
Vitamin B12 plays a role in supporting mental and cognitive health, B12 has been proven to increase the cognitive function of older people and has even been used to prevent or slow the progression of dementia.
Supports Heart Health
B12 lowers levels of a compound known as homocysteine which is linked to an increased risk of heart attacks and stroke.
Reduce Risk of Birth Defects
Expectant mothers will need healthy levels of Vitamin B along with Folic Acid (Vitamin B9). Vitamin B-9 (Folate) has been shown to reduce an unborn baby’s risk of developing neural tube defects like spina bifida. It can also reduce the risk of spinal and nervous system defects
Eases Morning Sickness
Vitamin B-6 (Pyridoxine) has even been successfully used to ease nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness during pregnancy.
Prevents Osteoporosis
Pernicious anaemia is associated with osteoporosis. Vitamin B12 has been shown to improve anaemia as mentioned earlier. In addition, Vitamin B 12 has the power to restore bone density and strength lost due to osteoporosis.
Reduces the Risk of Macular (Eye) Degeneration
Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is more than twice as common in individuals with a Vitamin B12 deficiency than in those with healthy levels of Vitamin B12. This means regular Vitamin B shots can lower your risk of AMD by as much as 30%.
Boosts Immunity
Due to the fact that Vitamin B12 is essential for red blood cell formation, DNA production and metabolic function, B12 boosts your immunity by ensuring the body is functioning as it should in multiple areas. It has been found to be key in preventing and combatting a number of serious health concerns, including various types of cancer.
Aids Weight Loss
B12 boosts your metabolism, so increasing levels of this vitamin can be an invaluable support if you’re trying to lose weight through diet. Its energy-giving and mood-boosting benefits will also aid your efforts in the gym.
Prevents Hair-loss
Due to Vitamin B12’s vital role in cell rejuvenation and blood circulation, it is known to be essential for healthy, glowing hair.
Enhances Skin Health and Appearance
B12 is essential for the health of your skin, hair and nails as it plays a role in cell reproduction and therefore the renewal of your skin. A B12 shot can help to increase collagen maintenance, improve cell turnover, reduce inflammation and redness, dryness and even help ease acne.
How often do I need it?
That depends on where your levels are? If you don’t know, we can test your levels with simple finger prick and give you the results in 15mins.
₤49.99
From £49.99 we offer a number of finger prick blood test which can tell you in 15 minutes if you would benefit from B12, click diagnostic consultation in the Services button to see the full range of tests.