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B vitamins / B12 / B-complex

Also called: cobalamin, methylcobalamin, cyanocobalamin, b12

A group of vitamins the body uses to turn food into energy; B12 also keeps nerves and blood cells healthy.

Why people take it
Energy, nerves and B12 deficiency.
What the evidence says
B12 supplements are important for vegetarians and vegans, older adults and people on metformin or acid-reducing medicines, who often run low. Extra B vitamins do not boost energy if you are not deficient.
Be careful
B12 is generally safe. High doses of vitamin B6 over a long time can damage nerves.
In food
B12: milk, curd, paneer, eggs, meat, fish. Other B vitamins: whole grains, dals, leafy greens.

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Common questions

What is B vitamins / B12 / B-complex?

A group of vitamins the body uses to turn food into energy; B12 also keeps nerves and blood cells healthy.

Why do people take B vitamins / B12 / B-complex?

Energy, nerves and B12 deficiency.

Does B vitamins / B12 / B-complex work?

B12 supplements are important for vegetarians and vegans, older adults and people on metformin or acid-reducing medicines, who often run low. Extra B vitamins do not boost energy if you are not deficient.

Is B vitamins / B12 / B-complex safe?

B12 is generally safe. High doses of vitamin B6 over a long time can damage nerves.

Sources and further reading

NIH Office of Dietary Supplements: vitamin B12

Last reviewed 31 October 2026. Written by Satya Babu.

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For information only, not medical advice. Supplements are not medicines: they are not tested and approved like drugs before they are sold, and they can interact with medicines. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before you start one, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, take regular medicines, or have kidney, liver or heart disease.