27/01/2026
Many people have vitamin B12 deficiency and they are told to get injections or pills to remedy the situation. But this is not a good long term option.
Here are some better tips especially for those of you that are vegans/vegetarians :
**Ways to help your body absorb B12 better from food** (especially if low stomach acid or gut issues are involved):
- Support stomach acid: Try a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar diluted in water before meals to gently stimulate digestion.
- Eat probiotic-rich foods: Yogurt, kefir, kimchi, or sauerkraut to support gut health.
- Include prebiotic foods: Garlic, onions, bananas, or whole grains to feed good bacteria.
- Pair wisely: Combine B12 foods with folate-rich ones (leafy greens, lentils) and get enough calcium (from dairy or fortified options).
- Lifestyle tweaks: Limit alcohol, avoid smoking, and don't overcook B12-rich foods (light cooking preserves more of the vitamin).
**Top natural food sources of B12** (aim for around 2.4 mcg per day as an adult):
- Clams or oysters: Super high – a small serving can give you way more than you need!
- Beef liver: One of the richest sources.
- Fish like salmon, tuna, sardines, or trout: Great options with 2–5 mcg per serving.
- Meat (beef, pork, chicken, turkey): Usually 1–3 mcg per portion.
- Eggs: About 0.6 mcg per large egg (mostly in the yolk).
- Dairy: Milk (1 cup ≈ 1.2 mcg), yogurt, or cheese.
If you're vegetarian/vegan, go for fortified foods:
- Fortified breakfast cereals (check the label – some give 25–100%+ of daily needs).
- Fortified plant milks (soy, almond, oat).
- Nutritional yeast (1–2 tablespoons can provide several mcg).