Vitamin B12 Tablets in Sri Lanka: Forms, Doses and Who Uses Them
What vitamin B12 does
Vitamin B12 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, to the normal function of the nervous system, to normal red blood cell formation and to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. The body cannot make it, so it has to come from food or supplements.
Who commonly takes it
B12 occurs naturally in animal foods such as meat, fish, eggs and dairy. People who eat little or none of these, including many vegetarians and vegans, are usually advised to get B12 from fortified foods or a supplement. Absorption also tends to fall with age, and some medicines and stomach conditions affect it. If you think your levels may be low, ask a doctor for a blood test rather than guessing.
Reading a 1000mcg label
The nutrient reference value for B12 is just 2.5 micrograms (mcg) a day, so a 1000mcg tablet shows a very large percentage on the label. That is normal for a B12 supplement. The body absorbs only a small share of a large oral dose at once, so a high number on the pack does not mean 400 times the benefit.
Methylcobalamin or cyanocobalamin?
These are two common forms. Methylcobalamin is a form that occurs in the body, and cyanocobalamin is the form used in most older products. There is no clear evidence that one is better for most healthy adults, so the practical points are dose, pack length and whether you like the format.
The B12 tablets we stock
WeightWorld Vitamin B12 1000mcg is a chewable tablet in the methylcobalamin form with a natural lemon flavour. A pack holds 400 vegan, gluten-free tablets, more than a year at one a day, made in the UK. Chewables suit people who find swallowing tablets hard.
Practical tips
- Take it at the same time each day so you do not forget.
- Follow the dose on the pack. More is not better.
- Keep the pot closed and out of heat and humidity.
- If you have numbness, constant tiredness or memory problems, see a doctor. A supplement is not a diagnosis.
Related guides and products
B12 is also part of many combined products. Our B complex guide explains the full B vitamin family, and you can browse the whole vitamin B range. For vitamin C, see our vitamin C 1000mg guide.
British Shop sources from London and ships by air cargo to Colombo. Products are available in stock or to pre-order from London, with delivery in Sri Lanka in up to 10 working days. The current price in rupees is always shown on the product page.
This guide is general information, not medical advice. Food supplements should not replace a varied diet. Do not exceed the dose on the label, and speak to a doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, take regular medicines or have a health condition.