Description

Twinlab's B-12 Dots are specially formulated to maximize absorption of vitamin B12. Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is named after the metal ion cobalt because it contains the metal characteristics and color of the metal. Cobalamin is required for the production and growth of all the cells in our body. Vitamin B12 is mainly found in animal foods including meat, poultry, fish and dairy products. It's not found in any significant amounts in plant foods, which can cause a vitamin B12 deficiency in vegan diets (a vegetarian diet that also avoids dairy and eggs).

Vitamin B12 is essential for many physiological functions in the body and is vital for overall well-being. This water soluble vitamin is also well-known as an energy nutrient used to support all bodily functions that require high levels of energy.

Vitamin B12's multi-functional uses include:

• Promotes red blood cell formation
• Maintains nerve cells
• Aids in DNA and RNA (genetic material) formation
• Lowers toxic homocysteine levels (high homocysteine levels increase the risk for chronic diseases including heart disease and dementia)
• Supports male fertility (increases sperm count)
• Enhances energy levels
• Supplements a vegetarian or vegan diet

Pros

A great advantage of Twinlab's B-12 Dots is that it provides an efficient and convenient way to ensure maximum absorption. The tiny tablet dissolves under the tongue so vitamin B12 can be directly absorbed into the bloodstream. Each B-12 Dot (sublingual tablet) provides 500 mcg of vitamin B12 in a delicious 100% natural cherry flavor.

Vitamin B12 deficiencies are one of the most common nutrient deficiencies. Vitamin B12 supplementation is often recommended for older adults, vegetarians and vegans. If you're at age 55 or older, you may have a vitamin B12 deficiency due to difficulty absorbing vitamins found in foods. Vegetarians and vegans may also be at risk for vitamin B 12 deficiency due to excluding animal and fish sources from their diets.

You should consider supplementation with Twinlab's B-12 Dots or increase intake of fortified foods containing B12, if you're at risk for B12 deficiency due to:

• Pernicious anemia
• High homocysteine levels
• Pancreas or bowel disorders
• Alchohol or drug abuse problems
• Inadequate nutritional dietary intake
• Difficulty absorbing vitamin B12 from foods
• Advanced age
• Male infertility
• Excess stress
• Fatigue
• HIV infection
• Alzheimer's disease

Cons

The Institute of Medicine has stated that, "no adverse effects have [ever] been associated with excess vitamin B12 intake from food and supplements in healthy individuals." Although an overdose can occur, B12 supplementation has a low incidence of toxicity. However, some side effects have been reported including:

• Allergic reactions to vitamin B12 injections
• Mild diarrhea
• Anxieties and panic attacks
• Heart palpitations
• Insomnia
• Breathing problems
• Chest pain
• Skin rash, hives, or itchy or swollen skin

Be aware that some drugs may interact with vitamin B12 including:

• Anticonvulsants
• Aspirin
• Cimetidine
• Clofibrate
• Colchicine
• Cycloserine
• Erythromycin
• Famotidine
• Fenofibrate
• Gabapentin
• Gentamicin
• Isonizid
• Lansoprazole
• Loop diuretics
• Metformin
• Methyldopa
• Neomycin
• Nitrous Oxide
• Nizatidine
• Omeprazole
• Oral contraceptives
• Phenobarbital
• Ranitidine
• Sulfamethoxazole
• Tetracycline
• Tetracycline
• Tricyclic Antidepressants
• Trimethoprim
• Valproic Acid

Is it for you?

If you're over the age of 55, or if you're a vegetarian or vegan, you may derive benefit from Twinlab's B-12 Dots. Also, if you suffer from stress or fatigue, or if you're at risk for vitamin B12 deficiency due to one of the conditions mentioned above, you may find nutritional support with B-12 Dots.

Dosage and Directions

For best results, each Dot should be held under the tongue until completely dissolved to maximize absorption. Take one Dot daily or use as directed by a health professional. Keep tightly closed in a cool, dry place.