Tropical Weight Loss
Photo by Andres  Ayrton Pexels Logo Photo: Andres Ayrton

What is B12 good for weight loss?

Vitamin B12 shots and supplements are popular among those looking for a quick fix for weight loss. In fact, some even claim that increasing your intake of vitamin B12 can help fight fatigue, boost energy levels, and speed up your metabolism.

How do you shrink your stomach?
How do you shrink your stomach?

The only way you can physically and permanently reduce your stomach's size is to have surgery. You can lose overall body fat over time by eating...

Read More »
How can I tone my flabby belly fast?
How can I tone my flabby belly fast?

So, if you cannot get rid of belly fat, then these tips for losing belly fat will definitely help you reach your goals: Avoid Sugar. ... Eat the...

Read More »

Vitamin B12 shots and supplements are popular among those looking for a quick fix for weight loss. In fact, some even claim that increasing your intake of vitamin B12 can help fight fatigue, boost energy levels, and speed up your metabolism. However, research on the potential effects of vitamin B12 on weight loss has turned up mixed results. This article takes an in-depth look at the evidence to determine whether vitamin B12 can help promote weight loss. Share on Pinterest Cavan Images/Offset Images What is vitamin B12? Also sometimes referred to as cobalamin, vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that’s essential for several aspects of health. This vitamin is involved in forming DNA and red blood cells, as well as necessary for brain function, heart health, energy production, and more ( 1 ). It’s found naturally in many animal products and sometimes added to fortified foods ( 1 ). Vegans, vegetarians, older adults, and people with digestive issues that can interfere with nutrient absorption may be at a higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency and need to supplement ( 2 ). Supplements 101: Vitamin B12 summary Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin involved in several aspects of health, including DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and brain function. Effects on body fat and metabolism Although research in humans is still very limited, some studies suggest that vitamin B12 could affect body fat and metabolism. One review concluded that vitamin B12 plays a key role in fat metabolism, noting that a deficiency could be linked to increased fat accumulation and obesity ( 3 ). Another animal study found that severe vitamin B12 deficiency led to a significant increase in body fat percentage and cholesterol levels in pregnant mice ( 4 ). What’s more, one animal study showed that administering B vitamins to rats fed a high fat diet reduced weight gain and increased levels of several enzymes that influence metabolism, compared with a control group ( 5 ). However, current evidence is lacking, and additional high quality studies are needed to determine how vitamin B12 may affect metabolism and body fat in humans. summary Some animal studies suggest that a deficiency in vitamin B12 may increase body fat percentage and alter metabolism. More research in humans is needed. Low levels may be linked to obesity Interestingly, several studies have found that having adequate vitamin B12 levels may be associated with a lower risk of weight gain and obesity. According to one large study in 9,075 people, having higher blood levels of vitamin B12 was associated with a lower risk of obesity ( 6 ). Similarly, another study in 976 people showed that having low levels of vitamin B12 was linked to a higher risk of overweight or obesity ( 7 ). What’s more, a study in 256 children showed that children with lower levels of vitamin B12 tended to have a higher body mass index (BMI), which is a measure of body size determined by height and weight ( 8 ). However, keep in mind that while these studies show an association between vitamin B12 status and body weight, they don’t take other potentially contributing factors into account. Therefore, it can’t be concluded that vitamin B12 causes weight loss. More research is needed to determine whether vitamin B12 directly affects body weight or BMI. summary Some studies show that lower levels of vitamin B12 may be associated with a higher risk of overweight or obesity. Further studies are needed to determine whether other factors may also be involved.

What protein has the most B12?
What protein has the most B12?

A 3.5-ounce (100-gram) serving of lamb liver provides an incredible 3,571% of the Daily Value (DV) for vitamin B12 ( 1 ). While lamb liver is...

Read More »
How many eggs a day for a healthy diet?
How many eggs a day for a healthy diet?

The American Heart Association recommends up to one egg a day for most people, fewer for people with high blood cholesterol, especially those with...

Read More »

Signs of vitamin B12 deficiency A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to megaloblastic anemia, a condition characterized by a low number of red blood cells that are larger than normal ( 9 ). Megaloblastic anemia can cause a variety of symptoms and side effects, including ( 10 ): shortness of breath

headache

heart palpitations

fatigue

poor balance

memory loss That said, being low in vitamin B12 doesn’t always lead to megaloblastic anemia, and many people may only experience mild symptoms like fatigue ( 11 ). Furthermore, while a deficiency in vitamin B12 may not cause weight gain, it can decrease energy levels and contribute to fatigue, making it harder to stay active and manage your weight. Conversely, some studies show that a deficiency in vitamin B12 may cause appetite loss, potentially leading to weight loss if left untreated ( 12 , 13 ). If you’re low or deficient in B12, your healthcare provider will likely recommend oral vitamin B12 supplements or injections to increase your blood levels ( 10 ). summary Low levels of vitamin B12 can cause megaloblastic anemia, which is characterized by shortness of breath, headaches, and fatigue. Increasing your vitamin B12 intake can protect against deficiency to prevent these side effects. Sources of vitamin B12 Vitamin B12 is found naturally in various food sources, including animal products like meat, fish, poultry, eggs, milk, and milk products ( 1 ). It’s also added to many fortified foods, such as breakfast cereals and plant-based milk like almond, soy, or hemp milk ( 1 ). Vitamin B12 supplements are also available in several forms, including tablets, capsules, liquids, and lozenges. It’s often found in many multivitamin supplements as well. Those who don’t regularly consume animal products rich in vitamin B12 may want to consider adding fortified foods to their diet or taking a supplement to ensure that their nutritional needs are met. summary Vitamin B12 is found in animal products and fortified foods. It’s also available in supplement form to help you meet your needs.

What burns fat cells naturally?
What burns fat cells naturally?

Here are 11 healthy foods that help you burn fat. Fatty Fish. Fatty fish is delicious and incredibly good for you. ... MCT Oil. Medium-chain...

Read More »
Which food tighten your skin?
Which food tighten your skin?

Eating Foods That Brighten and Tighten Your Skin • Green Tea – Full of antioxidants and polyphenols which fight free radicals. ... • Turmeric –...

Read More »

Is there a pill that curbs your appetite?
Is there a pill that curbs your appetite?

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved these prescription appetite suppressants: Diethylpropion (Tenuate dospan®). Liraglutide...

Read More »
Will losing 30 pounds cause loose skin?
Will losing 30 pounds cause loose skin?

Amount of weight lost: As you can imagine, the more weight you've lost, the more likely you are to have loose skin. Someone who has lost 30 pounds...

Read More »
Which food is rich in fats?
Which food is rich in fats?

Foods containing large amounts of saturated fat include red meat, butter, cheese, and ice cream. Some plant-based fats like coconut oil and palm...

Read More »
Can you take Ozempic just for weight loss?
Can you take Ozempic just for weight loss?

Yes, Ozempic can be used to help people lose weight even though it was originally designed for the treatment of diabetes. Ozempic isn't licensed by...

Read More »