Thanks for the useful reply Trinity.

That's a very informative article, I had briefly read it previously, it was good to look back on it again more thoroughly. This statement particularly caught my attention - "If for any reason you choose not to use fortified foods or supplements you should recognise that you are carrying out a dangerous experiment." and "B12 need never be a problem for well informed vegans"

You are right about absorption playing such an important role and I have been paying more attention as I eat recently. As well as vitamin c and other nutrients, I think that non-physical factors may have a role to play. I am aware that I sometimes over eat or eat too quickly or pay too little attention while eating and suspect that this may have a negative impact on how effective my digestion might be.

I had overlooked that the B12 in yeast was fortified, that's useful to be reminded of - thanks. I think I will find other sources.

Interestingly when I went to the herbal shop, the guy I spoke too had recently completed a paper on B12 (I love the synchronicity). He was able to tell me that there were two main types of b12 and that methylcobalamin is the one that is far more beneficial for us. He suggested a spray form for higher absorption rates and also informed me that you could wear a patch on your arm as a method of intake.

He also spoke about absorption and vitamin C. He suggested the use of lemon with food, I'm now curious if this has to do with the vitamin c or acid or something else.

It's been really helpful to explore here, hoepfully it will be useful for others too, thanks, love Fiona