If you’re vegan and feeling a bit more sloth than superhero, B12 could be the missing piece.
You’ve nailed your plant-based recipes, your fridge is a shrine to leafy greens, and you’ve even found a vegan chocolate you actually like. But if your energy’s dipped, your concentration’s wandered, or you’ve been having the odd “what did I come in here for?” moment… it might not be your coffee intake.
It could be vitamin B12 quietly waving a little red flag.
In this guide, we’ll break down what B12 actually is, why it’s extra important for vegans, and—most importantly—how to get enough without overcomplicating your life. And because this is Vegums, expect a dash of science, a pinch of humour, and a big spoonful of tasty solutions.
What exactly is vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12—also known as cobalamin—is like the backstage crew of your body. You don’t see it, but without it, nothing works quite right. It’s involved in:
-
Making red blood cells that carry oxygen around your body.
-
Keeping your nervous system healthy, so your brain and body can chat without mixed signals.
-
Helping produce DNA, the blueprint for every single cell in your body.
-
Converting food into energy, so you can power through the day without feeling like you need a nap after breakfast.
Without enough B12, the whole system starts to lag. And unlike some vitamins, your body can’t just make it itself—you have to get it from food or supplements.
Why vegans can’t get B12 from plants (and why that’s okay)
Here’s the thing: vitamin B12 is naturally found only in animal-derived foods like meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. Why? Because it’s made by bacteria in animal digestive systems. Plants, as wonderful as they are, just don’t contain it naturally.
Yes, some plant-based foods—like certain plant milks, breakfast cereals, and nutritional yeast—are fortified with B12. But unless you’re tracking every bite like it’s an Olympic sport, it’s tricky to consistently hit your daily target from fortified foods alone. That’s where supplements step in to save the day.
How much B12 do you actually need?
The UK’s NHS recommends 1.5 micrograms per day for adults. Sounds tiny, right? But the catch is absorption—your body only takes in part of what you consume. For vegans, experts often recommend a little more to make sure enough gets through.
Here’s the good news: unlike some nutrients, B12 is water-soluble, so your body takes what it needs and gets rid of the rest. This means regular daily doses are safe and effective.
Why Vegums’ B12 packs more punch
Not all B12 supplements are created equal. At Vegums, we use vegan cyanocobalamin—a stable, reliable, and scientifically backed form of vitamin B12 that’s perfect for plant-based diets.
And here’s where we go further than most: unlike other supplements, we put 800% NRV (20mcg) of B12 into every daily dose of Vegums. Why? Because B12 is known to be poorly absorbed, higher amounts help ensure you’re getting enough.
No need to panic about “too much,” either—B12 is water-soluble, so any excess simply passes out of your body in urine. You get a generous, safe dose every day, without having to overthink it.
The sneaky signs you might be low in B12
B12 deficiency doesn’t show up overnight—it can take months or even years to develop. But when it does, it can have a big impact. Here are some early warning signs:
-
Feeling tired or weak even after a good night’s sleep.
-
Brain fog or trouble concentrating.
-
Tingling or numbness in hands and feet.
-
Mood changes, irritability, or even mild depression.
-
Pale or jaundiced skin.
Long-term deficiency can lead to more serious issues like nerve damage, balance problems, and memory loss—so it’s worth catching early.
Myth-busting: common B12 misconceptions
“I’m vegan and feel fine, so I must have enough B12.”
Not necessarily. Your body can store B12 for a while, but when it runs out, symptoms hit hard. Prevention is much easier than treatment.
“I can get B12 from spirulina or seaweed.”
Sadly, no. These contain B12 analogues—molecules that look like B12 but don’t work in the body and can even interfere with absorption of the real thing.
“Supplements are unnatural.”
B12 supplements are made by cultivating the same bacteria that naturally produce B12. Whether it comes from a pill, gummy, or fortified food, it’s the same nutrient your body needs.
1. Fortified foods
Things like plant milks, breakfast cereals, and nutritional yeast can help boost your intake. The challenge is making sure you get enough, every day, without fail.
2. Supplements
Tablets, sprays, and gummies are the most reliable way to get consistent B12. The key is choosing a form you’ll actually remember to take—because the “best” supplement is the one you take regularly.
Why gummies are a game-changer
If you’ve ever forgotten a tablet at the back of the cupboard, you know that “out of sight, out of mind” is real. Gummies flip that script—they taste good, they’re fun to take, and they’re easy to give to the whole family.
When you enjoy the process, you’re more likely to stick with it. That’s where Vegums comes in.
Why Vegums is different
Vegums isn’t just another supplement brand—we’re here to make healthy living easier, tastier, and kinder to the planet.
Here’s what makes us stand out:
-
Pharmacist-formulated for safe, effective dosages.
-
100% vegan and free from animal-derived ingredients.
-
Made with natural colours and flavours—no artificial nasties.
-
Plastic-free packaging: reusable tins and compostable refill pouches.
-
Subscription options so you never run out.
-
Suitable for adults and kids—one product for the whole household.
Because they’re tasty, you’ll actually want to take them. And because they’re sustainable, you’ll feel good about every step of the process.
People Also Ask – FAQs
Q: Why do vegans need B12?
Because B12 is essential for blood, nerve, and DNA health but is only found naturally in animal products. Vegans must get it from fortified foods or supplements.
Q: Can B12 deficiency cause long-term issues?
Yes. Deficiency can cause irreversible nerve damage, memory problems, and balance issues if untreated.
Q: How much B12 should vegans take?
The NHS suggests 1.5 micrograms daily, but some experts recommend more for plant-based diets to ensure adequate absorption.
Bottom line: B12 isn’t optional
If you’re vegan, think of B12 like brushing your teeth—it’s a small, simple step that keeps bigger problems away. With Vegums Vegan Multivitamin Gummies, you can top up your B12 every day in a way that’s easy, tasty, and planet-friendly.
Because good health shouldn’t mean compromise—and it definitely shouldn’t be boring.
Learn more about Vegums supplements
