Why B12 Shots are Better than Oral Supplements

Vitamin B12 is essential for many vital bodily functions including red blood cell production, nerve health, and DNA synthesis. It’s naturally found in animal-based foods, but for a variety of reasons, many people struggle to get enough of it from their diets or supplements. (I know I'm guilty!) One popular method for boosting B12 levels is through methylcobalamin injections. Let's explore why B12 methylcobalamin injections can be more effective than traditional oral supplements and who might benefit most from this form of supplementation.

B12 shots can help your energy levels!

What is Methylcobalamin?

First, let’s quickly clarify what methylcobalamin is. Vitamin B12 comes in several different forms, but methylcobalamin is one of the most active and bioavailable forms in the body. It plays a crucial role in the formation of red blood cells and the proper functioning of the nervous system. Unlike other B12 forms, methylcobalamin is directly used by the body without requiring additional conversion. This makes it a highly efficient and effective form of B12 for supplementation.

How Do B12 Injections Work?

Methylcobalamin injections deliver B12 directly into the bloodstream through an intramuscular injection. Once injected, the B12 enters your system quickly bypassing the digestive system entirely. This means that the vitamin is immediately available for the body to use without the need for complex digestion and absorption processes. So, if you ask yourself, "why B12 shots are better than oral supplements?" - you know that injections have a much higher and quicker response time than ingestion.

A B12 shot is an intramuscular injection typically in the upper arm.

Why B12 Shots are Better than Oral Supplements

While oral B12 supplements can work for many people, there are several reasons why B12 methylcobalamin injections might be a superior choice for others. Here are the key benefits:

1. Improved Absorption: One of the primary advantages of B12 injections is that they bypass the digestive system. Oral supplements must be broken down in the stomach and absorbed in the intestines, but certain conditions can interfere with this process. For example:

   • Low stomach acid: As we age or due to conditions like acid reflux, the body’s ability to absorb B12 from food or oral supplements diminishes. This is because stomach acid plays a role in separating B12 from the protein it’s bound to in food, allowing for proper absorption.

   • Gastrointestinal issues: Conditions such as Crohn's disease, celiac disease, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can damage the digestive tract making it harder for the body to absorb nutrients, including B12.

   • Medications: Certain medications, such as proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and metformin, can interfere with B12 absorption.

   Since B12 injections go directly into the bloodstream, absorption is not an issue, which can be a game-changer for those with these digestive or absorption challenges.

   
   

2. Immediate Effectiveness: Think about it! When you take B12 orally, it has to pass through the stomach and intestines before being absorbed into the bloodstream (believe us, it's a long journey - have you ever seen that one Magic School Bus episode?!). When all is said and done, the body may not fully absorb the entire dose, and it can take time to feel the effects. In contrast, methylcobalamin injections deliver B12 straight into your bloodstream providing immediate availability to cells. This means that you may experience a quicker boost in energy levels, reduced fatigue, and relief from deficiency symptoms after just one injection. YES, PLEASE!

   
   

3. No Risk of Digestive Issues or Interactions: Some people experience stomach upset, nausea, or digestive discomfort when taking oral B12 supplements. As mentioned earlier, certain medications or health conditions can reduce the effectiveness of oral B12. With B12 injections, you eliminate these issues entirely since the vitamin bypasses the digestive tract. 

   
   

4. Higher Bioavailability: Methylcobalamin injections provide a highly bioavailable form of B12, which means the body can use it more efficiently. The body doesn’t have to convert methylcobalamin into another active form, unlike cyanocobalamin, which is commonly found in oral supplements. This makes methylcobalamin injections a more direct and potent option for replenishing B12 stores. Let's think smarter, not harder. We are all looking for instant gratification, right?!

   
   

5. Better for Severe Deficiencies: If someone has a significant B12 deficiency, oral supplements may not be enough to bring levels back up quickly. In severe cases, the body may struggle to absorb enough of the vitamin from oral sources leading to continued symptoms of deficiency. B12 shots provide a direct and fast way to restore B12 levels making them ideal for those with more significant deficiencies or health conditions that prevent proper absorption.

   
   

6. Convenience for Long-Term Use: For individuals who have trouble absorbing nutrients or maintaining sufficient B12 levels, regular B12 shots may be recommended by healthcare providers. While this may sound like a hassle compared to taking a daily pill, the effects of a single injection can last much longer depending on individual needs. This can actually be more convenient than remembering to take an oral supplement every day or having to wait an extended period of time before you ever really feel the effects. Most often, B12 shots can be administered once a week, but we highly recommend seeking personal advice from our medical professionals.

   
   

7. Supports Nerve Health: One of the critical functions of B12 is supporting the nervous system. Deficiency in B12 can lead to nerve damage, tingling in the hands and feet, and even memory issues. Methylcobalamin is especially effective in maintaining nerve health because it is the active form that directly participates in nerve regeneration and repair. Therefore, B12 shots can be particularly beneficial for those experiencing neurological symptoms associated with B12 deficiency including chronic fatigue or cognitive problems.

   

   B12 shots are an easy addition to any appointment.

Who Can Benefit from B12 Shots?

• People with digestive or absorption issues: As mentioned, conditions like Crohn’s disease, IBS, or celiac disease can prevent proper absorption of B12 making injections the best option for getting enough of the nutrient.

• Older adults: Aging can affect the stomach’s ability to produce stomach acid, which is necessary for B12 absorption. Older adults may have difficulty getting sufficient B12 from food or oral supplements, and injections can help maintain adequate levels.

• People with certain health conditions: Those with conditions like pernicious anemia, which affects the absorption of B12, can benefit from regular B12 injections.

• Vegetarians and vegans: Since B12 is primarily found in animal products, individuals who follow plant-based diets may need B12 supplementation. In cases where oral supplements aren't sufficient, methylcobalamin injections provide an effective alternative.

• People on weight loss medication: B12 can improve energy levels, enhance metabolic function, and potentially mitigate some side effects of certain weight loss medication. B12 is crucial for energy production, which can help combat fatigue that hinders exercise and weight management efforts.

  
  

Conclusion

While oral B12 supplements can be beneficial, B12 shots offer several advantages especially for those who have trouble absorbing B12 through their digestive system. The direct injection into the bloodstream allows for faster, more efficient absorption and can be a game-changer for individuals with significant deficiencies or health conditions that interfere with B12 absorption.

If you’re struggling with low B12 levels or dealing with symptoms of deficiency, B12 methylcobalamin injections may provide a faster, more reliable solution. As always, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your specific health needs. Whether you choose oral supplements or injections, maintaining optimal B12 levels is crucial for your overall health and well-being. At Sparkle Aesthetics, you can add a B12 shot to ANY appointment. Just ask your provider! Alternatively, if you are seeking a quick boost, you can come in just for a B12 shot. We will have you in & out within 10 minutes. Call or text us at 708-300-3075 to book your B12 shot.