Zipfizz makes it easy to add flavor, electrolytes, vitamins, minerals and caffeine to your water when you want a convenient pick-me-up. If you’ve looked closely at the label though, you may have noticed that some products contain more vitamin B12 than the daily recommended amount. That can sound surprising, but the number needs some context. Let’s take a closer look at what B12 does, how your body absorbs it and why the amount in Zipfizz is generally considered safe.
What is Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient, meaning your body needs it, but cannot make it on its own. It helps your body make DNA and healthy red blood cells, and it supports normal nerve function. B12 also plays a role in turning the food you eat into usable energy. Getting enough B12 also helps prevent megaloblastic anemia, a condition that can cause fatigue and weakness.
B12 is found naturally in animal foods, including fish, meat, eggs and dairy. It’s also added to some fortified foods and beverages. Adults need about 2.5 mcg per day, though individual needs and the ability to absorb B12 can vary. People who eat few or no animal foods, for example, may need to pay closer attention to their B12 intake.
Why does Zipfizz contain so much B12 and is it safe?
Depending on the product, Zipfizz contains between 0 and 2500 mcg of vitamin B12 per serving which is higher than the FDA’s recommended daily value of 2.4 mcg. However, the amount on the label is not the amount your body absorbs.
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin which means the body absorbs what it needs and excretes the excess. In fact, the National Institutes of Health has not established a tolerable upper intake level for vitamin B12 because it has a low potential for toxicity, even at high doses.
As always, if you have questions about your individual health needs or the supplements you take, talk with your healthcare provider.
Does more B12 mean more energy?
B12 helps your body turn the food you eat, into usable energy, so getting enough is important. But if you already have adequate B12 levels, taking more has not been shown to improve energy levels.
Zipfizz also contains caffeine, which can contribute to the pick-me-up you feel when you drink it. The B12 in Zipfizz contributes to your daily B12 intake, alongside the B12 you get from food and other supplements.
The bottom line
Zipfizz’s B12 content may look high compared with the daily recommendation, but the amount listed on the label reflects what each serving contains, not how much your body absorbs. .Only a small fraction of a high oral dose is absorbed. B12 has a well-established safety profile, even at high doses. When deciding whether Zipfizz fits your routine, look at the whole label, including caffeine and other added nutrients, as well as any supplements you already take. If you have a medical condition or questions about your B12 needs, speak with your healthcare provider.
