Vitamin B12 has developed quite a reputation as the energy boosting vitamin. You may find it in foods or drinks with the words “energy booster” slapped on the label. And if you’ve ever felt extra sluggish or relied on one too many cups of coffee, you might have wondered if your body is low in something, such as B12.

But does vitamin B12 actually give you energy? The short answer: it can, but only if you are low or deficient in it. Below, we break down what B12 is, how it supports energy production, who may benefit from taking it, and how to determine your status with a comprehensive B12 blood test panel.

What is Vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 is an essential water-soluble vitamin in the B-vitamin family. Also known as cobalamin (or methylcobalamin in its active form), vitamin B12 is used by nearly every cell in the body and plays a critical role in forming new red blood cells, supporting a healthy nervous system, and assisting in DNA synthesis. Like other essential vitamins, your body can’t make it, therefore, you must get B12 from your diet.

Read my full blog post for LifeExtension.com – Does Vitamin B12 Really Give You Energy? Here’s What Science Says. and watch my video clip for social.