If Vitamin B12 is vital and many of us are deficient in it, which version should we take as a supplement - or are there other alternatives?

It is now more common knowledge that people on plant based diets expose themselves to Vit B12 deficiency and subsequent potential illnesses.

It is also well documented that Vit B12 is not made by animals, but they ingest it from bacteria in the soil, untreated water sources and also their own faeces. It has been found in some wild harvested fruits (seabuckthorn) and vegetables, courtesy no doubt of bacterial presence.

I know some very carnivorous individuals requiring emergency Vit B12 injections, so plant based diets are not exclusive to this deficiency.

So, if it is mandatory for people on plant based diets to take a Vit B12 supplement, which one is best? Are some a waste of time and money?

Dr Michael Gregor specifies cyanocobalamin version of B12 , rather than methylcobalamin. Some researchers claim the latter is not absorbable by the human body. Yet some supplements are only methylcobalamin and are even recommended by doctors. How come, if the body cannot absorb it - what a waste of money?!

Personally I am confused.

What comments do you have about this very important topic?