Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 in Energy Drinks: Its Effects and Benefits
Vitamin B12 is a vitamin containing cobalt that is essential for the nervous system and protein synthesis. It is necessary for the production of red blood cells when combined with folic acid and plays a role in preventing and improving anemia.
The recommended daily intake is 2.4µg. Since vitamin B12 is water-soluble, there is no risk of side effects from excessive intake as it will be excreted.
Effects of Vitamin B12
- Helps with amino acid and protein synthesis
- Fatigue recovery
- Endurance maintenance
- Prevention of concentration decline
While more research is needed on the effects of Vitamin B12, it is noted that in cases of Vitamin B12 deficiency, it can improve conditions like anemia and help with symptoms of fatigue. However, if your vitamin B12 levels are already sufficient, it won't necessarily enhance endurance further.
Vitamin B12 in Energy Drinks
Vitamin B12 is present in most energy drinks.
In the ingredient list, you may see percentages like 100% or 200% of the daily recommended intake instead of specific amounts. These figures are based on the daily recommended intake in the country where the product is sold, which may be a different standard than in Japan.
When taking vitamin B12 supplements, not all of the ingested amount is absorbed. Healthy individuals may only absorb about 10µg of the 500µg they consume.
Sometimes, the ingredient lists of energy drinks and energy shots show percentages as high as several hundred or thousand percent, which can be seen as humorous. Knowing about the low absorption rate of Vitamin B12 can help you stay calm when checking the ingredient list.
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Author: Energy Drink-kun
In 2001, while living in the United States, I encountered energy drinks through the dance scene and was deeply impressed. After returning to Japan, I found that energy drinks were considered novelty beverages, so I established a comprehensive website in 2013 to share the true appeal of energy drinks. As an energy drink enthusiast, I began drinking them seriously again, collecting over 7,000 varieties of energy drinks from various countries. I am also active as a critic and expert, receiving media interviews.