What Is TriVita B12?

TriVita B-12 is formally known as TriVita Sublingual B-12. This supplement has been in existence since the 1980s, and has been marketed as a product that promotes general health and one that can help prevent various diseases. However, there is skepticism by other doctors who suggest that such products do not prevent disease.

History

• TriVita Sublingual B-12 is a vitamin B-12 supplement. The supplement was first created in 1984 by Alfred F. Libby, M.D. Its parent company, TienaHealth was founded by Scott Conrad, M.D. Since its creation, TriVita Sublingual B-12 has been featured in various infomercials, some of which feature Evangelists James and Betty Robinson as hosts.

The Facts

• TriVita Sublingual B-12 is sold on trivita.com, as well as by phone at: [phone]. A month's supply costs about $25 (as of 2009) and comes in two flavors: cinnamon and original berry. These supplements are in the form of dissolving tablets that are placed underneath the tongue. TriVita Sublingual B-12 also contains vitamin B-6 and folic acid. This supplement contains 100 percent daily intakes of all three vitamins.

Function

• According to trivita.com, the ingredients in TriVita Sublingual B-12 improve health in a few ways. First, TriVita claims that this supplement lowers the body's levels of an amino acid, called homocysteine, which in turn reduces the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and cardiovascular disease. Also, TriVita claims that this product boosts energy, balances emotions and helps with brain function.

Theories/Speculation

• Stephen Barrett, M.D, founder of quackwatch.com, is skeptical of some of these claims. The B-vitamins contained in TriVita Sublingual B-12 are essential to overall health, but some of the functions suggested by TriVita may seem a little far-fetched. First, Dr. Barrett states that the fact that this product claims to help emotional well-being suggests that vitamin B-12 helps heal depression, which is not valid. Also, Dr. Barrett states that using this product to decrease homocysteine levels can be dangerous, as it may not work for everyone. Alzheimer's disease is also not affected by B-vitamins, according to Dr. Barrett.

Prevention/Solution

• Dr. Barrett does advocate taking B-vitamins, but recommends that you opt for regular supplements that contain the same ingredients, and usually cost about $2 a month. B-vitamins are essential to overall health, so ensure that you are either getting enough from your diet or through supplements. Talk to a doctor first before you attempt to take any supplements to try and prevent any diseases. Taking TriVita B-12 may have health benefits, but do not assume that it will cure any illness.