B-12 is an essential vitamin that your body cannot produce on its own! We typically get it from animal products - but like all vitamins, it can be challenging to get your recommended daily amount without supplementation!
 
Some of the things B-12 is most known for is energy production, creation red blood cell formation, and healthy nerve cell function. But there are many other things this vitamin helps the body with - check out this list from Healthline:
 
May Prevent Major Birth Defects
May Support Bone Health and Prevent Osteoporosis
May Reduce Your Risk of Macular Degeneration
May Improve Mood and Symptoms of Depression
May Improve Heart Health by Decreasing Homocysteine
Supports Healthy Hair, Skin and Nails
 
B-12 supplementation is especially useful for older adults, those with gastrointestinal disorders or who have had gastrointestinal surgeries, those on a strict vegan diet, and those who take metformin for blood sugar control, or proton pump inhibitors for chronic heartburn.