B-12 Lozenge 1,000 mcg (Item #418)

Vitamin B-12 belongs to the class of water soluble B-vitamins. It works with folic acid to make DNA, red blood cells and nerve cells. Many people lack B-12 due to poor diet, reduced stomach acid (known to facilitate the absorption of B-12), or less intrinsic factor, a key element secreted in our stomachs to absorb B-12. B-12 is found naturally in animal sources such as liver, eggs, cheese, and meat. Combined with vitamins B-6 and folate, B-12 helps with balancing homocysteine levels, a key health marker. Vitamin B-12 is especially important for older adults who tend to lack B-12 in their diet and have less stomach acid secretion to absorb B-12. Others who often have higher requirements for B-12 include vegetarians and those who have undergone gastric surgery.