The Top 10 Foods for Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that's involved with a lot of important processes in the human body. [1] Food is the primary source for this nutrient, with supplements being the secondary source for some people. Vitamin B12 is structurally the largest and most complex of all the vitamins known to man. Interestingly enough, vitamin B12 is integral to normal energy metabolism in all cells of the body as well as amino acid and fatty acid metabolism. Additionally, B12 is extremely important in a myriad of other vital physiological processes such as brain function and nervous system health, myelin sheath health, blood formation, bone marrow health, and DNA synthesis/regulation.
A unique essential nutrient, vitamin B12 isn't produced by plants, animals, or even fungi, instead being produced only by certain bacteria. Human requirements for vitamin B12 as set by the Daily Recommended Intake (DRI) are 2-3 micrograms/mcg per day to upwards of 4-7 micrograms/mcg per day. [2] Naturally-occurring sources of Vitamin B12 are found primarily in foods of animal origin and among fortified foods of vegetarian/vegan origin. If you are a practicing vegan, supplementation may be the best option for you to ensure you receive adequate to optimal daily intake.
Top 10 Food Sources of Vitamin B12
The majority of food sources for vitamin B12 come from foods of animal origin, making vegan options somewhat limited. Certain soil bacteria synthesize B12 and some people believe that eating unwashed vegetables may provide trace amounts of the vitamin. However, most people aren’t too keen on eating dirty vegetables. Further, there is no evidence that suggests soil bacteria generate any forms of B12 the body can actually use.[3] Ensure you’re getting the B12 you need with a high-quality supplement, such as our Vitamin B12. It contains the most bioavailable forms of B12 to help you maintain your energy levels.
Those of you who eat meat, eggs, and dairy will likely have an easier time getting B12, but please remember, consuming animal products carries other health concerns. This is particularly true if the animal is raised in a conventional feedlot environment. While we at Global Healing always advocate a plant-based diet, we understand that not everyone will adopt this lifestyle. For you, here are the highest non-vegan sources (and some plant sources) of vitamin B12:
1. Liver (Beef)
71 mcg per 3-ounce serving Provides 2951% of DRI 114 calories
2. Mackerel
16 mcg per 3-ounce serving Provides 667% of DRI 174 calories
3. Sardines
8 mcg per 3-ounce serving (most cans are 3-4 ounces ea.) Provides 333% of DRI 189 calories
4. Fortified Cereals
5 mcg per cup Provides 208% of DRI 160 calories
5. Red Meat
5 mcg per 3-ounce serving Provides 208% of DRI 213 calories
6. Salmon
4 mcg per 3-ounce serving Provides 167% of DRI 119 calories
7. Fortified Soy
2 mcg per 3-ounces serving Provides 83% of DRI 45 calories
8. Milk
1.2 mcg per cup (8 fluid ounces) Provides 50% of DRI 83 calories
9. Swiss Cheese
1 mcg per ounce Provides 42% of DRI 108 calories
10. Yogurt
1 mcg per cup Provides 42% of DRI 149 calories
Points to Remember
The highest levels of B12 from vegan sources are often in the form of fortified grains, like breakfast cereals. While this can be a great way to receive the vitamin if you are a practicing vegan or vegetarian, most fortified grains are typically refined and sometimes filled with sugar. It is best for vegans and meat-eaters alike to supplement with vitamin B12, as eating meat is not always a guarantee for healthy vitamin B12 status. A vegan supplement, like our organic Vitamin B12, could be helpful for maintaining appropriate levels of the nutrient.
Everything You Need to Know About Vitamin B12
Length: 50 minutes
References (3)
- National Institutes of Health. "Vitamin B12." NIH Fact Sheet.
- Institute of Medicine Standing Committee on the Scientific Evaluation of Dietary Reference Intakes and its Panel on Folate, Other B Vitamins, and Choline. "Dietary Reference Intakes for Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Pantothenic Acid, Biotin, and Choline." The National Academies.
- Victor Herbert, MD, JD. "Vitamin B-12: plant sources, requirements, and assay." Am J Clin Nutr. September 1988 vol. 48 no. 3, 852-858.
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
Dr. Edward Group, DC
FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATEDr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.
