After publishing B12 Shots: The Newest Energy Booster I was quite surprised by the overwhelming interest in the subject. And, by the continued popularity of this article I realized there is a need for a supplemental article.
What I realized is that most people have specific concerns when it comes to deciding whether B12 shots are the right choice for them. Initially, I thought concerns would center on the cost and the potential pain (which, were my concerns). I am finding that other questions I had not even considered surfaced and wanted to lay down these questions in a clear format.
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What is the Best Choice for You: B12 Shots, Sublingual Pills, or Even Nasal Spray?
First of all, I think most people wonder why not simply take the over-the-counter B12 vitamin pills? They are convenient and surely more affordable than these unfamiliar choices. It is my sincere belief that with any choice we make in life, one's comfort level is the highest decision factor. If the idea of trying any of the above feels too out of the ordinary for you, that is entirely okay and understandable, my guess though, is that if you are reading this article you are open to trying new things that can potentially boost your energy, weight loss, and overall health benefits.
According to my doctor, B12 shots are one of the most effective and efficient means to ensure that a full dose of the vitamin B12 enters your blood stream in its entirety. Certain things like one's chemistry make up can sometimes alter the transport of the vitamin by alternative methods like ingesting pills and even nasal sprays (nascobal.com/hcp.html). When you ingest supplements or take sublingual pills the vitamin must penetrate through your digestive system as well as survive through the unique terrains of your body's unique makeup. On the other hand, nasal sprays directly make contact with your tissues mucous membrane and have the advantage of skipping the digestive process.
Truly the choice is a personal one based off your comfort level with needles, your financial budget, and the convenience of each method. If you find that sublingual pills work best for you, go for it! The best choice is the one you feel best with and works, period. Results are what matter the most.
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What About the Cost?
Thankfully, I have learned that if you do choose to get B12 shots, there are ways to get them that are more affordable rates than the ones I have originally started with ($25/per shot). The readers have been exceptional is offering their great tips and money saving finds.
- Check out what your health plans offer: One reader, Julie reported that through her health plan she was able to get 4 shots for only $12! So be sure to check out what your health plan offers in benefits; it could truly save you more money than you thought possible!
- German made B12 shots: According to another reader, Reem, B12 shots are available in Jordan (and I'm sure other locations) for only $1 each! You cannot beat such an incredible bargain.
Basically, it is best to do your research before you make any substantial purchase. If you shop around, check out price differences, you can find incredible bargains and help keep your budget in check.
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Can you Overdose from B12?
One reader, Sue, brought up this very good point. My answer follows:
"An overdose of vitamin B12 is rare among the people." (However) "The symptoms of the overdose of vitamin B12 are numbness of any parts of body, itch, or a feeling of burning pain or pricking." (
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I also found articles that said that there is no danger of a B12 overdose. I believe that with anything new that you allow into your life you must be careful and take precautions (like you are doing - asking smart questions).
My doctor told me that some people get B12 shots once a week while others twice a month and some only once a month. I am a big believer of the power of one's own intrinsic intuition regarding the body, mind and spirit. I think that for people who are worried about an overdose, getting B12 shots only once a month is a good way too go, that way the "rare" potential of an overdose is greatly minimized.
Again, I am not a doctor and my opinion is based off my research, personal experience, and things that my doctor explained to me. If ever in doubt, I would consult with a doctor and potentially get a 2nd opinion as well. What's truly most important is your level of comfort with any new thing you allow into your life.
In Closing:
I always stress that we are all different and what works for my system and makeup might not necessarily work for you. Some readers and people have reported feeling instant energy and weight loss while others might struggle a bit more to find the right combination for their chemistry. If, for example, a person has a more serious condition, B12 shots alone may not have as big of an impact on their systems and, ironically, if you are very healthy you might not notice a big difference either.
Metaphorically you Can Look at Your Health Like the Maintenance of Your Car
For example, you must get regular service on your car to make sure it runs properly. Getting oil changes when they are due will keep your vehicle running smoothly, seamlessly and infinitely increase its longevity. However if you don't take care of it regularly, you may see a big difference in its performance because you waited so long that it was performing at an extremely low level beforehand. Throw in another fact: waiting too long can also cause unforeseen problems like transmission problems, brakes, etc that will make the oil change seem like it hardly made any difference in the betterment of your car's performance at all.
These are all important things to keep in mind when you think about the effectiveness of B12 shots, sublingual pills, etc. for yourself.
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