1. What Are Vitamin B6 & B12 & Why Do Kids Need Them?
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) and Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) are crucial for brain development, neurotransmitter function, and energy production. These vitamins help regulate dopamine and serotonin levels, which influence focus, mood, and cognitive performance.
Key functions of B6 & B12 include:
✔ Supports memory, learning, and attention
✔ Regulates mood and emotional stability
✔ Aids in red blood cell formation and energy production
✔ Promotes brain cell communication and neuroprotection
📌 Related Article: Best Natural Supplements for Kids’ Focus & Attention
2. Key Benefits of Vitamin B6 & B12 for Children
1️⃣ Improves Focus & Cognitive Performance
A 2018 study in the Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that children with sufficient B6 and B12 levels exhibited better concentration, memory, and problem-solving skills.
📌 Read the study
2️⃣ Supports Mood & Emotional Balance
A 2020 study in Nutritional Neuroscience showed that low B6 and B12 levels were linked to increased anxiety and mood imbalances in children, while supplementation helped regulate stress hormones.
📌 Read the study
3️⃣ Boosts Energy & Reduces Fatigue
A 2019 study in Pediatrics found that Vitamin B12 is essential for red blood cell production, which helps prevent fatigue and supports mental and physical stamina.
📌 Read the study
3. Are Vitamin B6 & B12 Safe for Kids?
Vitamin B6 and B12 are safe and essential for children, but parents should:
✔ Ensure the correct dosage – Typical intake recommendations: 0.5-2 mg for B6, 0.5-1.8 mcg for B12.
✔ Choose bioavailable forms – Methylcobalamin (B12) and Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (P5P) for B6 are better absorbed.
✔ Monitor for mild side effects – B vitamins are water-soluble, so excess amounts are excreted, but high doses may cause mild digestive discomfort.
4. Best Food Sources of Vitamin B6 & B12
🥩 Lean Meats & Fish – Chicken, beef, salmon
🥚 Eggs & Dairy – Yogurt, cheese, eggs
🥬 Leafy Greens – Spinach, kale, broccoli
🫘 Legumes & Nuts – Lentils, almonds, walnuts
🍬 Gummies & Chewables – A kid-friendly supplement option
📌 Related Article: The Science Behind Nutrition & Brain Development & in Children
5. How B6 & B12 Supplements Compare
Most B6 and B12 supplements only provide individual B vitamins, while full-spectrum formulas like ShroomIQ combine multiple brain-supporting nutrients.
Product | Key Ingredients | Formula Strength | Cost |
---|---|---|---|
Mary Ruth’s B12 Liquid Drops | Methylcobalamin B12 | Supports energy, lacks cognitive enhancers | $23 (1 oz) |
SmartyPants Kids B-Complex Gummies | B vitamins & Vitamin D | Good for general health, no functional mushrooms or Omega-3s | $25 (90 gummies) |
ShroomIQ Gummies | Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Reishi, Omega-3, Magnesium, B Vitamins, Zinc | Full cognitive & nervous system support blend | $39 (60 gummies) |
📌 While most brands only offer B6 or B12, ShroomIQ combines 10 research-backed ingredients for comprehensive brain, nervous system, and energy support—including Lion’s Mane, Omega-3 DHA, and Magnesium to enhance cognitive function and focus.