Why No B9 and B12?

Flexibility in B Vitamin Supplementation

Folate (B9) and B12 are essential vitamins, but they're not always best taken as part of a combined B complex - particularly if you're already supplementing them separately or have specific requirements.

Here's why some people choose a B complex without these two vitamins.

Already Supplementing B9 & B12

Many people already take folate and B12 separately for specific reasons:

  • B12 injections or high-dose oral B12 - common for those managing B12 deficiency
  • Methylated forms - some people specifically choose 5-MTHF (methylfolate) or particular B12 forms
  • Prescribed supplementation - under professional guidance for specific needs

If you're already getting B9 and B12 from other sources, adding more through a B complex creates unwanted overlap and makes it impossible to control your exact intake.

Different Forms for Different Needs

Not all forms of these vitamins work the same way for everyone:

Folate (B9) comes in different forms:

  • Folic acid (synthetic)
  • 5-MTHF (methylated, active form)
  • Folinic acid (another active form)

B12 comes in multiple forms:

  • Cyanocobalamin (synthetic, most common)
  • Methylcobalamin (methylated form)
  • Adenosylcobalamin (another active form)
  • Hydroxocobalamin (used in injections)

Some people have specific reasons for choosing particular forms. Taking B9 and B12 separately allows you to select exactly what works for you.

MTHFR and Folate Metabolism

Some people have genetic variations (such as MTHFR polymorphisms) that affect how they process folic acid. For these individuals, methylated folate (5-MTHF) is often preferred.

If you're taking methylated folate separately, you don't want additional folic acid from a B complex interfering with your protocol.

Dosage Control

B complex supplements vary widely in their B9 and B12 content - some contain modest amounts, others have very high doses.

If you're carefully managing your B9 and B12 intake (whether for absorption issues, specific protocols, or practitioner guidance), having them in your B complex removes your ability to adjust doses independently.

Our Two Formulas

We offer both options:

B Complex Without B6, B9 & B12 - For those who want complete control over all three vitamins or are already supplementing B9 and B12 elsewhere.

B Complex Without B6 (with methylated B9 & B12) - For those who want active forms of folate and B12 included, without B6.

Both formulas allow you to choose what works best for your individual situation.

The Bottom Line

There's no single "right" B complex for everyone. Your needs depend on your diet, genetics, existing supplementation, and individual circumstances.

A B complex without B9 and B12 simply gives you the flexibility to manage these vitamins on your own terms.