Do you need a B12 Top-Up?

I often come across deficiencies of this vital nutrient in clinical practice, particularly with clients who are stressed, follow a vegan diet, elderly or on certain medications.

What Does Vitamin B12 Do?

Vitamin B12 is vital in numerous bodily functions, including energy production, nerve function, red blood cell production, and DNA synthesis. It's essential for maintaining overall health and well-being. 

We primarily obtain Vitamin B12 from animal sources such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy products, so it makes sense to supplement daily if you follow a strict vegan diet. 

Should we Rely on 'Healthy Ranges'?

When we have our blood taken, we rely on the "healthy ranges" provided by conventional medicine to detect nutrient deficiencies, but these ranges don't always paint the full picture.  Healthy ranges in NZ are between 170-800 pmol/L, so if yours come back as 171 pmol/L, they are considered within the ‘normal range’ so don't expect a follow-up from your GP! 

From a Naturopathic view, these are low levels and we like to see at least 300pmol/L and above.   

Signs and Symptoms of Low B12

• Exhaustion

• Shortness of breath

• Frequent headaches

• Sore mouth/tongue

• Numbness or tingling in your hands or feet (to name a few!).

Factors Affecting B12 Absorption

Hydrochloric acid in the stomach is crucial for B12 absorption. Patients taking proton pump inhibitors such as Omeprazole to reduce stomach acid face low levels.  Stress and ageing deplete B12 over time, and as many as 30% of adults over 50 years have difficulty absorbing it from food.  

Take Action Today

If you're concerned about your B12 levels or interested in optimising your health, consider working with me.

Together, we can develop a personalised plan to ensure you're getting the nutrients your body needs and you have practices in place to ensure you're absorbing it from the food you're eating.