Vitamin B-12 500 mcg
Swanson Premium Brand
Vitamin B-12 500 mcg
4.7
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
(5180 ratings)
Vitamin B12 500 mcg
Score 62.0
A very affordable, basic B12 capsule (cyanocobalamin) at a moderate dose, best suited for budget-conscious daily maintenance.
Quantity: 30 Capsule(s)Servings size: 1 Capsule(s) (30 servings)
Selected goals:
Other goals:
Energy
Brain Health
Mood Support
Cognitive Support
Metabolism Boost
leaderboard Score 62.0
A very affordable, basic B12 capsule (cyanocobalamin) at a moderate dose, best suited for budget-conscious daily maintenance.
insights Analysis
Swanson Premium Brand's B-12 500 mcg is positioned as a very economical entry-level B12 supplement. It provides a moderate dosage of cyanocobalamin in a standard capsule format. While the low price is a significant advantage, particularly for budget-conscious individuals or those requiring only a minimal daily top-up, the capsule delivery means that absorption relies entirely on the digestive tract. This can be a drawback for individuals with compromised digestion or genetic variations that hinder cyanocobalamin conversion, making it less effective for optimizing B12 levels compared to more advanced formulations on the market.
- Extremely affordable price point, making it highly accessible.
- Provides a foundational 500 mcg dose of B12.
- Simple and convenient capsule form for daily intake.
- Uses cyanocobalamin, a synthetic B12 form that requires conversion.
- Capsule form may have lower absorption rates compared to sublingual or liquid options.
- Lower dosage might not be sufficient for individuals with significant B12 deficiencies.
- Individuals with impaired B12 absorption or MTHFR gene variations may require a different form or delivery method.
$2.99($0.09 per serving)
 Amazon | $ 0.00 | |
 iHerb | $ 2.99 |
bolt Effectiveness for goals
Vitamin B12 is crucial for red blood cell formation, DNA synthesis, and proper neurological function. It helps maintain the health of nerve cells and supports the metabolism of every cell in the human body. Adequate intake is essential for overall health and well-being.
Vitamin B12 is vital for cellular energy production. However, supplementation primarily increases energy in individuals who are deficient in Vitamin B12. For those with adequate levels, there is limited evidence to suggest it provides an additional energy boost.
Vitamin B12 supplementation is highly effective in treating and preventing B12 deficiency. It can reverse many deficiency symptoms, such as anemia and neurological issues, especially when started promptly. The specific form and dosage depend on the individual's condition and the cause of the deficiency.
Vitamin B12 plays an important role in brain health and nerve function. In individuals with a B12 deficiency, supplementation can improve memory and cognitive issues. However, for people with sufficient B12 levels, there is limited evidence that supplements enhance cognitive abilities.
Yes, Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining the myelin sheath that protects nerves and for synthesizing neurotransmitters. Deficiency can lead to neurological damage, including tingling, numbness, and difficulty with coordination. Supplementation helps prevent or reverse these issues in deficient individuals.
schedule Dosage, timing & forms
The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for adults is 2.4 mcg, but supplemental dosages can vary widely. For addressing deficiencies or maintaining levels in specific populations, daily dosages often range from 250 mcg to 1000 mcg or more. Higher doses are generally well-tolerated due to B12's low toxicity.
Vitamin B12 supplements are commonly available as cyanocobalamin, methylcobalamin, adenosylcobalamin, and hydroxocobalamin. Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic form, while methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin are natural, active forms found in the body. The choice of form may depend on individual needs or preferences.
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, meaning that excess amounts are generally excreted in the urine, making toxicity rare. No Upper Tolerable Intake Level (UL) has been established for Vitamin B12 due to its extremely low potential for harm. However, it is always advisable to follow recommended dosages or consult with a healthcare provider for very high doses.
There is no universally 'best' time to take Vitamin B12, as it can be taken effectively at any time of day. Some suggest taking it in the morning on an empty stomach for optimal absorption, while others find taking it with food helps prevent minor stomach upset. Consistency in taking the supplement is generally more important than the specific timing.
Yes, specific populations often have different Vitamin B12 requirements or dosage recommendations. Vegetarians and vegans, for example, typically require supplementation due to the lack of dietary B12 sources. Older adults and individuals with certain gastrointestinal conditions may also need higher doses due to age-related malabsorption or specific medical conditions.
health_and_safety Safety & interactions
Yes, certain medications can interact with Vitamin B12 absorption or metabolism. These include metformin, proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), H2-receptor antagonists, and some antibiotics. Individuals taking such medications should discuss B12 supplementation with their healthcare provider.
Vitamin B12 is generally considered safe, even at higher doses, because it is a water-soluble vitamin. Excess amounts are typically excreted through urine, minimizing accumulation. However, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
Side effects from Vitamin B12 supplementation are rare, especially with oral forms. Mild gastrointestinal upset or skin reactions have been reported in some individuals. Serious adverse effects are highly uncommon.
Vitamin B12 has a low potential for toxicity because it is a water-soluble vitamin. There is no established upper intake level, as excess amounts are generally excreted without adverse effects. However, extremely high doses without medical supervision are not typically recommended.
Adequate Vitamin B12 is crucial for maternal and infant health during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Supplementation is generally considered safe and is often recommended, particularly for individuals with dietary restrictions. Discuss appropriate dosages with a healthcare professional.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin) | 500 mcg |
Categories
Vitamin B12 62.0
As a Vitamin B12 supplement, it stands out primarily for its low cost, offering a standard dose in a basic capsule form suitable for general supplementation.
Goals
Energy 62.0
Provides a fundamental level of B12 to support energy metabolism, though its impact might be modest for individuals due to the synthetic form and capsule absorption.
Brain Health 62.0
This supplement offers basic support for brain and nerve function, beneficial for general maintenance rather than targeted therapeutic use for complex brain health concerns.
Mood Support 62.0
Contributing to the pathways involved in mood regulation, this product provides a baseline B12 level that can aid in overall mood balance.
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