When it comes to weight loss, most people think about diet, exercise, and perhaps medications. But there’s a lesser-known player in the energy and metabolism game, vitamin B12. At Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield, we’re seeing more interest from patients asking, “Does B12 help with weight loss?” and “Where can I get B12 injections near me?”
In this blog, we’ll explore the role of vitamin B12 in weight management, how it supports your body’s energy systems, and how our pharmacy integrates B12 assessments and injections into our structured weight loss services.
📍 Find us here on Google Maps – Hodgson Pharmacy, Longfield
What Is Vitamin B12 and Why Is It Important?
Vitamin B12 (also known as cobalamin) is an essential vitamin that your body needs but cannot produce on its own. It plays a vital role in:
- Energy production
- Red blood cell formation
- DNA synthesis
- Nerve function
- Metabolism of fats and proteins
If you’re lacking in B12, you may experience fatigue, weakness, brain fog, or difficulty losing weight, even if you’re doing all the right things.
Vitamin B12 and Its Link to Weight Loss
Does B12 Help with Weight Loss?
While B12 is not a “magic shot” for weight loss, it can help in indirect but meaningful ways. It supports:
- Increased energy levels – making it easier to stay active
- Improved metabolism – helping your body convert food into usable energy
- Enhanced mood and motivation – which are key when sticking to a weight loss plan
Deficiency in B12 can slow down your progress, even if your diet and exercise are on point.
Who Is at Risk of B12 Deficiency?
Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal products like meat, fish, dairy, and eggs. You may be at risk of deficiency if you:
- Follow a vegetarian or vegan diet
- Have digestive issues like Crohn’s, IBS, or coeliac disease
- Are over 50 years old (absorption decreases with age)
- Take medications like metformin or proton pump inhibitors (PPIs)
- Have undergone weight-loss surgery
At Hodgson Pharmacy, we offer vitamin B12 deficiency assessments to help determine if B12 supplementation could benefit your weight loss plan.
How We Integrate B12 into Your Weight Loss Plan at Hodgson Pharmacy
We offer a structured and pharmacist-led weight management programme at our Longfield pharmacy, with convenient access for patients from Dartford, Gravesend, and surrounding areas.
1. B12 Screening and Lifestyle Assessment
Our team begins by understanding your health history, current symptoms, diet, and medications. If B12 deficiency is suspected, we may recommend a private B12 test or begin supplementation if you present with clear deficiency symptoms.
2. B12 Injections
We offer vitamin B12 intramuscular injections administered at the pharmacy for rapid absorption. These are ideal if you have poor dietary intake or low absorption from oral supplements.
Benefits of B12 injections include:
- Boosted energy and reduced fatigue
- Enhanced fat metabolism
- Better concentration and mood
- Support for physical activity and exercise plans
3. Combined with Weight Loss Treatments
B12 injections can be integrated into your overall weight loss treatment plan, which may also include:
- Prescription weight loss injections
- Lifestyle and nutrition advice
- Behavioural coaching
- Regular progress monitoring
Our pharmacist will personalise your programme based on your needs, health status, and goals.
Where Can I Get Vitamin B12 Injections in the UK?
If you’re in Longfield, Dartford or Gravesend, you can book a B12 injection appointment at Hodgson Pharmacy without a GP referral.
We offer:
- Private, discreet consultations
- Flexible appointment slots
- High-quality, pharmacy-delivered care
- Affordable pricing for B12 and weight loss services
Call us or book online to schedule your B12 injection or weight loss consultation today.
FAQs – Vitamin B12 and Weight Loss
Is vitamin B12 good for weight loss?
Yes, it helps indirectly by improving energy, metabolism, and mood, which all support weight loss efforts, especially if you’re deficient.
Where can I get vitamin B12 injections in the UK?
You can get vitamin B12 injections at Hodgson Pharmacy in Longfield, near Dartford and Gravesend, with no GP referral required.
How often should I get a B12 injection?
Frequency depends on your levels and symptoms. Many patients receive injections every 4-12 weeks, based on professional guidance.
Are B12 injections safe?
Yes, B12 injections are safe when administered under medical supervision. Side effects are rare but will be discussed during your consultation.