Although vitamin B12 can be obtained from the diet, deficiency is not uncommon, particularly among older individuals. Supplementation with methylcobalamin is indicated in such cases. This active molecule is also recommended for vegetarians and vegans, because foods that contain it are often animal-source, such as offal and seafood. Dietary supplements may, therefore, be necessary for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Given the crucial roles vitamin B12 plays in the body, it’s essential to ensure an adequate intake of this vitamin, particularly as a shortfall may result in insufficient production of haemoglobin which is vital for transporting oxygen to red blood cells. If this is not addressed, it can lead to anaemia which is characterised by abnormally low levels of haemoglobin. In vitamin B12 deficiency anaemia, red blood cells are usually bigger than healthy ones. Generally known as macrocytes, these larger red blood cells do not permit adequate oxygen transport, resulting in poor oxygenation of the body. This manifests in various symptoms such as pale skin, a rapid heart rate, severe fatigue, breathing difficulties and headaches. Vitamin B12 supplementation may thus be necessary to prevent deficiency or combat the symptoms of anaemia.

Smart Pills is not designed to meet our requirements for vitamins and micronutrients. It is therefore perfectly possible to take other supplements at the same time such as multivitamins and omega-3 fatty acids.

In India, Bacopa monnieri is often combined with Withania somnifera (Ashwagandha) to improve memory and learning.

Smart Pills can also be taken alongside other Supersmart supplements available to buy such as Taurine 1000mg, Methylcobalamine 1mg or Ginkgo biloba 60mg.

You may also be interested in other vitamin supplements such as Triple C, our complete vitamin C formulation, and Daily 6®, our latest-generation multivitamin supplement, available to buy at Supersmart.

There are at least four additional factors that will help give your brain an extra boost:

Good quality sleep. Several studies have demonstrated the importance of sleep for memorising new information. Indeed, it’s during the hours of sleep that memory is consolidated. A poor night’s sleep before an important event may thus impair memory as well as alertness and concentration (35).

A vitamin B-rich diet. The B group vitamins, particularly B1, B6, B9 and B12, play a key role in cognitive processes.

Good hydration. Failure to stay well-hydrated (by drinking at least 2 litres of water a day) can impair concentration and alertness.

Regular breaks. Several studies suggest that taking regular breaks boosts efficiency and productivity at work, provided you don’t allow yourself to become distracted or try to multi-task.