Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B12
For the health condition: Exercise

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient involved in red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. Its primary scientific justification in relation to exercise is its role in preventing and treating B12 deficiency anemia, which can cause fatigue, weakness, and impaired physical performance. In individuals with adequate B12 status, supplementation does not appear to enhance exercise performance, endurance, or muscle strength. However, in populations at risk for deficiency (such as vegans, vegetarians, older adults, or those with absorption disorders), correcting B12 deficiency can improve energy levels and exercise capacity by restoring normal red blood cell production and oxygen transport. A few studies have examined B12 supplementation in athletes, but results do not consistently show performance benefits in those without deficiency. Major sports nutrition and medical organizations, including the International Society of Sports Nutrition and the American College of Sports Medicine, do not recommend B12 supplementation for exercise enhancement unless deficiency is present. Thus, while correcting a deficiency is important for optimal exercise performance, there is limited evidence to support B12 supplementation as a performance aid in healthy, non-deficient individuals. In summary, the scientific evidence supports the use of vitamin B12 to treat exercise-related fatigue or poor performance only in cases of deficiency. Routine supplementation for exercise enhancement in the general population lacks strong scientific backing.

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