We sought to determine the impact of vitamin B12 (VB12) on sleep patterns in rats, particularly considering its potential benefits for those struggling with insomnia. By giving rats a daily intravenous dose of VB12, we monitored their sleep using polysomnographic recordings over a four-day period.
During our observations, we noticed a significant increase in non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep on the second and third days of VB12 administration. Interestingly, REM sleep also showed a notable boost on the second day. The enhancements in sleep were particularly evident during the light period, indicating that vitamin B12 could play a role in promoting sleep at those times.
Additionally, we found that the rats receiving vitamin B12 exhibited serum levels that were 40 times higher than those in control rats, suggesting a robust absorption and impact of the vitamin. Overall, our findings indicate that administering VB12 peripherally does have positive effects on sleep in rats, especially during the light hours.
Read More
8
Vitamin B12 shows potential for insomnia
Treatment of persistent sleep-wake schedule disorders in adolescents with methylcobalamin (vitamin B12).
We investigated whether vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) could assist adolescents struggling with persistent sleep-wake schedule disorders. Remarkably, two patients—a 15-year-old girl with delayed sleep phase syndrome and a 17-year-old boy with hypernychthemeral syndrome—saw impressive improvements after taking high doses of B12 daily.
The girl's sleep improved significantly, reducing her sleep time from 10 hours to 7 hours and enabling her to fall asleep earlier. The boy's sleep-wake cycle also showed a positive shift. Overall, these initial findings suggest that B12 might play a helpful role in addressing certain sleep disorders in young individuals.
Read More
8
Vitamin B12 aids sleep-wake disorders
Vitamin B12 treatment for sleep-wake rhythm disorders.
We explored the effects of Vitamin B12 on patients with long-standing sleep-wake rhythm disorders. In one case, a 15-year-old blind girl with a 25-hour sleep cycle improved dramatically after starting a regimen of 1.5 mg of B12 three times a day. Her sleep pattern aligned with the 24-hour cycle, but, after stopping the supplement, her issues returned within two months.
Similarly, a 55-year-old man with delayed sleep phase syndrome also benefitted from B12, experiencing sustained improvement for over six months. These findings suggest Vitamin B12 may be a valuable treatment for certain sleep-wake rhythm disorders.
Read More
Most Useful Reviews
7.5
Improved sleep quality
22 people found this helpful
Anemia improved. I’m not vegan and have followed the Fujikawa theory for years, yet my MCV remains high and dizziness persisted. I’ve taken my usual B50 plus B12, dissolving it under my tongue as they are small. Since blood replaces every four months, I take three pills daily. After a month, my dizziness is lessened, and my insomnia has improved, allowing me to sleep easier without melatonin, which was an unexpected benefit. I look forward to my next blood test, as B12 seems to regulate the autonomic nervous system and sleep.
Read More
9
Quick sleep aid
11 people found this helpful
Sleep better! I suffer from insomnia, often taking long to fall asleep. However, after taking one tablet post-dinner, I felt naturally sleepy and fell asleep within 10 minutes. I did feel overly sleepy the next day, so timing and dosage may need adjusting. The taste is delightful and easy to take. I’ll likely repeat once it's finished.
Read More
9
Enhances concentration
Vitamin B12 is vital for brain health, the nervous system, DNA synthesis, and blood cell formation. It aids erythrocyte production, regulates immunity, enhances nerve fiber construction, improves insomnia, and assists with memory and concentration.
We investigated whether vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) could assist adolescents struggling with persistent sleep-wake schedule disorders. Remarkably, two patients—a 15-year-old girl with delayed sleep phase syndrome and a 17-year-old boy with hypernychthemeral syndrome—saw impressive improvements after taking high doses of B12 daily.
The girl's sleep improved significantly, reducing her sleep time from 10 hours to 7 hours and enabling her to fall asleep earlier. The boy's sleep-wake cycle also showed a positive shift. Overall, these initial findings suggest that B12 might play a helpful role in addressing certain sleep disorders in young individuals.
Read More
8
Vitamin B12 aids sleep-wake disorders
Vitamin B12 treatment for sleep-wake rhythm disorders.
We explored the effects of Vitamin B12 on patients with long-standing sleep-wake rhythm disorders. In one case, a 15-year-old blind girl with a 25-hour sleep cycle improved dramatically after starting a regimen of 1.5 mg of B12 three times a day. Her sleep pattern aligned with the 24-hour cycle, but, after stopping the supplement, her issues returned within two months.
Similarly, a 55-year-old man with delayed sleep phase syndrome also benefitted from B12, experiencing sustained improvement for over six months. These findings suggest Vitamin B12 may be a valuable treatment for certain sleep-wake rhythm disorders.
Read More
8
Vitamin B12 and sleep impact
Vitamin D deficiency promoting non-24 h sleep-wake disorder: a case report.
We explored the relationship between vitamin B12 levels and insomnia in a case involving a woman experiencing excessive daytime sleepiness alternating with insomnia. This case fit the criteria for a non-24-hour sleep-wake disorder, where traditional treatments failed to provide relief.
Upon further examination, we discovered deficiencies not just in vitamin B12, but also in vitamin D3 and folic acid. After addressing these deficiencies through supplementation, the subject reported a return to a 24-hour sleep-wake cycle.
However, it's essential to note that the improvement in sleep patterns remained detached from the external light-dark environment. This raises the intriguing question of whether vitamin B12's influence is direct or if it simply coexists with other factors influencing sleep.
While there were notable changes after treatment, isolating the specific effect of vitamin B12 on insomnia from the other vitamins administered remains a challenge. Thus, we observe that while vitamin B12 is part of the bigger picture, its individual effectiveness in treating insomnia cannot be confirmed from this study alone.
Read More
8
Combined treatment aids insomnia
The Effects of Magnesium - Melatonin - Vit B Complex Supplementation in Treatment of Insomnia.
In our exploration of insomnia treatment, we worked with 60 patients diagnosed with the condition. They were split into two groups: one received the Magnesium-melatonin-vitamin B complex, while the other acted as a control. The specific goal was to determine if this combination, which included Vitamin B12, could effectively improve sleep quality over a three-month period.
We found that participants receiving the Magnesium-melatonin-vitamin B complex reported a reduction in insomnia symptoms, as indicated by the Athens Insomnia Scale scores. Initially, the average sleep problem scores were quite similar between both groups, showing they were compatible at the start. However, after three months, the treatment group saw their insomnia scores significantly drop, suggesting that the supplement had a beneficial impact.
While the findings point to the treatment's effectiveness, it's essential to note that Vitamin B12 was part of a combination therapy. This means we cannot isolate its specific contribution to the improvement seen. As such, while we can say that the combination helped with insomnia, we need further studies to understand the exact role of Vitamin B12 in this context.
Read More
8
Vitamin B12 promotes sleep in rats
Effects of intravenously administered vitamin B12 on sleep in the rat.
We sought to determine the impact of vitamin B12 (VB12) on sleep patterns in rats, particularly considering its potential benefits for those struggling with insomnia. By giving rats a daily intravenous dose of VB12, we monitored their sleep using polysomnographic recordings over a four-day period.
During our observations, we noticed a significant increase in non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep on the second and third days of VB12 administration. Interestingly, REM sleep also showed a notable boost on the second day. The enhancements in sleep were particularly evident during the light period, indicating that vitamin B12 could play a role in promoting sleep at those times.
Additionally, we found that the rats receiving vitamin B12 exhibited serum levels that were 40 times higher than those in control rats, suggesting a robust absorption and impact of the vitamin. Overall, our findings indicate that administering VB12 peripherally does have positive effects on sleep in rats, especially during the light hours.
Anemia improved. I’m not vegan and have followed the Fujikawa theory for years, yet my MCV remains high and dizziness persisted. I’ve taken my usual B50 plus B12, dissolving it under my tongue as they are small. Since blood replaces every four months, I take three pills daily. After a month, my dizziness is lessened, and my insomnia has improved, allowing me to sleep easier without melatonin, which was an unexpected benefit. I look forward to my next blood test, as B12 seems to regulate the autonomic nervous system and sleep.
Read More
9
Quick sleep aid
11 people found this helpful
Sleep better! I suffer from insomnia, often taking long to fall asleep. However, after taking one tablet post-dinner, I felt naturally sleepy and fell asleep within 10 minutes. I did feel overly sleepy the next day, so timing and dosage may need adjusting. The taste is delightful and easy to take. I’ll likely repeat once it's finished.
Read More
9
Enhances concentration
Vitamin B12 is vital for brain health, the nervous system, DNA synthesis, and blood cell formation. It aids erythrocyte production, regulates immunity, enhances nerve fiber construction, improves insomnia, and assists with memory and concentration.
Read More
9
Avoids insomnia
An excellent quality product with small, easy-to-swallow tablets. It has a pleasant taste and provides substantial energy with an immediate effect. It has no side effects and improves sleep without causing insomnia, aiding metabolism and rejuvenating effects.
Read More
7.5
Calms insomnia
An effective vitamin. The results were visible from the first days of use. It helps with nervous conditions, calms the nervous system, and even aids with insomnia. It's a quality product that gives energy throughout the day. I recommend buying it.
Insomnia is a common sleep disorder characterized by the inability to fall asleep, stay asleep, or wake up too early and not be able to go back to sleep. Individuals experiencing insomnia may find that it affects their daytime functioning, leading to issues such as fatigue, mood disturbances, and difficulty concentrating. Insomnia can be classified into two main types: acute insomnia, which lasts for a short period often triggered by stress or life changes, and chronic insomnia, which occurs at least three times a week for three months or longer, and may require more in-depth evaluation and treatment.
Numerous factors can contribute to insomnia, including stress, anxiety, poor sleep habits, medical conditions, and the use of certain medications. Treatment for insomnia typically involves a combination of lifestyle changes, cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I), and sometimes medication. Establishing a consistent sleep routine, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and practicing relaxation techniques can help improve sleep quality. If insomnia persists, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and customized treatment options.
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in several vital functions in the human body. It is essential for red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. Naturally occurring in animal products, the vitamin can be found in high concentrations in meat, fish, eggs, and dairy, making it particularly important for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, as plant-based sources of B12 are limited and often require supplementation.
A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to serious health issues, including anemia, fatigue, memory problems, and nerve damage. Due to its significance, it's crucial for individuals, particularly those at risk of deficiency, to ensure adequate intake through diet or supplementation. For most adults, the recommended daily allowance (RDA) is around 2.4 micrograms, though pregnant or breastfeeding women may require higher amounts. If you're considering B12 supplements, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best option for your specific needs and health status.
Based on user reviews, the time to see results from taking these supplements for insomnia can vary. Some users report noticeable improvements within just a few days of starting the supplement. For instance, one review mentions that results were visible from the first days of use, helping with insomnia and providing energy throughout the day Read Review. Another user experienced improved sleep after a month, citing a significant reduction in dizziness as an added benefit Read Review.
However, some individuals might take longer to see the effects, as there are reports of gradual improvements rather than instantaneous results. One reviewer highlighted that their sleep improved significantly after several weeks of using the product, indicating that multiple factors, including lifestyle changes, might contribute to overall health and sleep quality Read Review. Overall, while some users may notice changes quickly, a timeframe of several days to a few weeks appears common for most individuals seeking relief from insomnia.
Vitamin B12 has shown promise as a potential aid for treating insomnia, particularly for specific sleep-wake disorders. Research has highlighted positive outcomes in adolescents, where high doses of methylcobalamin significantly improved sleep patterns for individuals with disorders such as delayed sleep phase syndrome and hypernychthemeral syndrome. For instance, a study observed that a 15-year-old girl reduced her sleep duration from 10 hours to 7 hours and achieved an earlier sleep onset after taking high doses of B12 [1]. Another study demonstrated similar benefits in a blind adolescent who, after starting vitamin B12, aligned her sleep-wake cycle with the 24-hour rhythm, suggesting that this vitamin may play a role in resetting circadian rhythms [2].
However, results regarding B12's relationship with insomnia are mixed. A broader study indicated that while there was a correlation between lower B12 levels and increased insomnia symptoms, the overall impact on sleep quality remained unclear [3]. Additionally, findings from diabetic patients suggested higher B12 levels might even be an independent risk factor for insomnia [5]. Therefore, while the data point to vitamin B12 as potentially beneficial for certain sleep disorders, more extensive research is warranted to define its role and efficacy clearly for insomnia in the general population.
Based on user reviews, many individuals report significant improvements in their symptoms of insomnia after using the supplement. For example, one user noted that they started feeling naturally sleepy and fell asleep within just ten minutes of taking the tablet, although they did mention needing to adjust the timing due to feeling overly sleepy the next day Read Review. Another reviewer shared that their insomnia improved markedly after a month of use, allowing them to sleep without melatonin, which they found to be an unexpected benefit Read Review.
Additionally, several users emphasized the overall quality and immediate effects of the product, with one person describing it as providing substantial energy and improving sleep without causing insomnia Read Review. Another user highlighted the benefits of Vitamin B12 in regulating the nervous system and aiding sleep, suggesting a broader impact on their well-being Read Review. While these anecdotal experiences are encouraging, individual results can vary widely, and it's advisable to consider personal health circumstances when evaluating such supplements.
Users report varying success when combining this supplement with others for managing insomnia. Notably, one user mentioned that their insomnia significantly improved when taking Vitamin B12 along with B50, noting the unexpected benefit of being able to sleep without melatonin after a month of use Read Review. This suggests that the use of B12 alongside other B vitamins may support better sleep quality. Another individual also commented on the improvement in their sleep after taking Vitamin B12, emphasizing its role in brain health and nervous system regulation Read Review.
Moreover, one user shared that combining this supplement with folic acid was beneficial for alleviating stress and insomnia Read Review. The anecdotal evidence suggests that many users find a synergistic effect when incorporating B12 with other supplements, although individual experiences may vary significantly. Overall, while several users benefited from these combinations, others noted the need for adjustment in timing and dosage to avoid feeling overly sleepy the next day Read Review.
The optimal dose of Vitamin B12 for treating insomnia appears to vary based on individual circumstances and specific sleep disorders. Research indicates that for adolescents experiencing persistent sleep-wake disorders, high doses of methylcobalamin, specifically around 3,000 micrograms daily, have shown significant improvements in sleep patterns. For instance, one study demonstrated that a 15-year-old girl with delayed sleep phase syndrome improved her sleep duration and onset after taking this high-dose regimen [1].
Further studies on adults with sleep-wake rhythm disorders have highlighted a daily dosage of 1.5 mg (1,500 micrograms), taken three times a day, as beneficial for cases involving non-24-hour sleep patterns. One such case involving a blind girl and a man suffering from delayed sleep phase syndrome indicated sustained improvements while on this dosage [2]. While the findings are promising, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional to tailor the dosage to individual needs and to monitor any potential side effects or interactions.
7.5
Calms insomnia
An effective vitamin. The results were visible from the first days of use. It helps with nervous conditions, calms the nervous system, and even aids with insomnia. It's a quality product that gives energy throughout the day. I recommend buying it.
7.5
Improved sleep quality
22 people found this helpful
Anemia improved. I’m not vegan and have followed the Fujikawa theory for years, yet my MCV remains high and dizziness persisted. I’ve taken my usual B50 plus B12, dissolving it under my tongue as they are small. Since blood replaces every four months, I take three pills daily. After a month, my dizziness is lessened, and my insomnia has improved, allowing me to sleep easier without melatonin, which was an unexpected benefit. I look forward to my next blood test, as B12 seems to regulate the autonomic nervous system and sleep.
7.5
Improved sleep
The small, sweet, sublingual pill tastes like strawberries. I bought it due to B12 deficiency and diagnosed autoimmune atrophic gastritis. After several weeks, my sleep has significantly improved, likely aided by exposure to sunlight. However, I believe multiple factors contribute to good health; I consume mostly raw foods while avoiding gluten, milk, and sugar. The product's quality appears excellent as well.
9
Quick sleep aid
11 people found this helpful
Sleep better! I suffer from insomnia, often taking long to fall asleep. However, after taking one tablet post-dinner, I felt naturally sleepy and fell asleep within 10 minutes. I did feel overly sleepy the next day, so timing and dosage may need adjusting. The taste is delightful and easy to take. I’ll likely repeat once it's finished.
9
Avoids insomnia
An excellent quality product with small, easy-to-swallow tablets. It has a pleasant taste and provides substantial energy with an immediate effect. It has no side effects and improves sleep without causing insomnia, aiding metabolism and rejuvenating effects.
9
Enhances concentration
Vitamin B12 is vital for brain health, the nervous system, DNA synthesis, and blood cell formation. It aids erythrocyte production, regulates immunity, enhances nerve fiber construction, improves insomnia, and assists with memory and concentration.
7.5
Stress relief
My favourite, it's necessary for the nervous system's functioning. Excellent for alleviating stress, fatigue, and insomnia. It must be taken with folic acid.
8
Vitamin B12 shows potential for insomnia
Treatment of persistent sleep-wake schedule disorders in adolescents with methylcobalamin (vitamin B12).
We investigated whether vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) could assist adolescents struggling with persistent sleep-wake schedule disorders. Remarkably, two patients—a 15-year-old girl with delayed sleep phase syndrome and a 17-year-old boy with hypernychthemeral syndrome—saw impressive improvements after taking high doses of B12 daily.
The girl's sleep improved significantly, reducing her sleep time from 10 hours to 7 hours and enabling her to fall asleep earlier. The boy's sleep-wake cycle also showed a positive shift. Overall, these initial findings suggest that B12 might play a helpful role in addressing certain sleep disorders in young individuals.
8
Vitamin B12 aids sleep-wake disorders
Vitamin B12 treatment for sleep-wake rhythm disorders.
We explored the effects of Vitamin B12 on patients with long-standing sleep-wake rhythm disorders. In one case, a 15-year-old blind girl with a 25-hour sleep cycle improved dramatically after starting a regimen of 1.5 mg of B12 three times a day. Her sleep pattern aligned with the 24-hour cycle, but, after stopping the supplement, her issues returned within two months.
Similarly, a 55-year-old man with delayed sleep phase syndrome also benefitted from B12, experiencing sustained improvement for over six months. These findings suggest Vitamin B12 may be a valuable treatment for certain sleep-wake rhythm disorders.
7
Vitamin B12 linked to insomnia
Association of Vitamin B12 Levels with Sleep Quality, Insomnia, and Sleepiness in Adult Primary Healthcare Users in Greece.
We assessed the relationship between vitamin B12 levels and insomnia symptoms in a diverse group of adults visiting primary healthcare clinics in Greece. Our research involved 512 participants, from which we gathered a variety of information including age, weight, and health history. Using standardized scales, we measured excessive daytime sleepiness, insomnia symptoms, and overall sleep quality.
Our findings highlighted that lower vitamin B12 levels, particularly below 342 pg/mL, were linked to increased insomnia symptoms. This association was particularly pronounced in certain groups, such as elderly, non-obese, and female participants. Interestingly, we found that excessive daytime sleepiness connected with low B12 levels only affected obese participants.
However, we did not find a significant connection between vitamin B12 levels and poor overall sleep quality. This indicates that while vitamin B12 may play a role in insomnia for specific individuals, its impact on sleep quality itself remains unclear. Therefore, while our study sheds light on these associations, further research is needed to explore the underlying dynamics between sleep and vitamin B12 more fully.
7
Vitamin B12 linked to insomnia
The independent association between vitamin B12 and insomnia in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional study.
We aimed to understand the relationship between vitamin B12 levels and insomnia in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In our study, we examined 418 individuals living with T2DM, some of whom experienced insomnia and others who did not.
The findings revealed that insomnia was present in about 24% of the participants, and those suffering from insomnia had notably higher levels of vitamin B12 compared to their peers without sleep issues.
Importantly, our analysis indicated that increased vitamin B12 levels could be an independent risk factor for insomnia. We identified a specific cut-off value of 517.50 pg/ml of vitamin B12 that could predict insomnia risk, showcasing its potential significance in managing sleep disturbances among diabetic patients.
Interestingly, the higher vitamin B12 levels in insomniac patients were also linked to the use of mecobalamin, suggesting a possible connection, though further investigation would be needed to fully establish this relationship. Ultimately, our study highlights the complex interplay between vitamin B12 and sleep health in individuals with T2DM, suggesting that elevation in serum vitamin B12 may enhance the risk of insomnia in this population.
References
Ohta T, Ando K, Iwata T, Ozaki N, Kayukawa Y, et al. Treatment of persistent sleep-wake schedule disorders in adolescents with methylcobalamin (vitamin B12). Sleep. 1991;14:414.
Okawa M, Mishima K, Nanami T, Shimizu T, Iijima S, et al. Vitamin B12 treatment for sleep-wake rhythm disorders. Sleep. 1990;13:15.
Bouloukaki I, Lampou M, Raouzaiou KM, Lambraki E, Schiza S, et al. Association of Vitamin B12 Levels with Sleep Quality, Insomnia, and Sleepiness in Adult Primary Healthcare Users in Greece. Healthcare (Basel). 2023;11. doi:10.3390/healthcare11233026
Radlberger RF, Kunz AB. Vitamin D deficiency promoting non-24 h sleep-wake disorder: a case report. Front Neurol. 2023;14:1141835. doi:10.3389/fneur.2023.1141835
Xiong S, Liu Z, Yao N, Zhang X, Ge Q. The independent association between vitamin B12 and insomnia in Chinese patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus: a cross-sectional study. Nutr Diabetes. 2022;12:3. doi:10.1038/s41387-022-00181-8
Djokic G, Vojvodić P, Korcok D, Agic A, Rankovic A, et al. The Effects of Magnesium - Melatonin - Vit B Complex Supplementation in Treatment of Insomnia. Open Access Maced J Med Sci. 2019;7:3101. doi:10.3889/oamjms.2019.771
Chang HY, Sei H, Morita Y. Effects of intravenously administered vitamin B12 on sleep in the rat. Physiol Behav. 1995;57:1019.