Touting to treat everything from low energy to dementia, vitamin B12 has become increasingly popular.
Just because many celebrities take it, is it a catch-all hype or it is the real deal?
B12 IN YOUR DIET
Of course, you can find B12 in many natural sources including shellfish, liver, salmon and eggs. However, there are no vegan or vegetarian sources of B12 unless you consume fortified soy products. And even if you eat foods with B12 or take a B-complex vitamin, you might not be absorbing adequate amounts, especially if you have digestive issues or intestinal diseases such as Crohn’s or Celiac disease.
WHY DO WE NEED B12?
Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that maintains our body’s nerve and blood cell health, as well as assists in DNA synthesis, the genetic makeup of who we are. The body requires this nutrient fro optimal function and body procedures.
SUPPLEMENTS VS. SHOTS
There are different forms of Vitamin B12. Ask your doctor which option is best for you based on your health history. In general, a vitamin B12 supplement may not be your best choice as it’s difficult for the body to absorb. A vitamin B12 shot, on the other hand, is a quick and easy option. And one that will bypass the digestive system from guaranteed absorption.
SIGNS THAT YOU MAY REQUIRE VITAMIN B12
• Fatigue
• Neuropathy (loss of feelings in your hands and feet)
• Dyspnea (difficult breathing)
• Heart palpitations
• Cognitive impairment (brain for or difficulty with word-finding)
• Depression
• Pallor (pale complexion)
BENEFITS OF VITAMIN B12
Boosts energy and reduces fatigue. Restoring vitamin B12 to healthy levels can treat anemia, help with conversion of macronutrients and the production and creatine, and reduce muscle weakness.
Improves metabolism. Because B12 injections may give patients more energy and regulate hormone production, it’s possible to experience changes in appetite, improved sleep and better exercise performance. This vitamin can also improve appearance of skin, hair, and nails.
Protects the heart. Vitamin B12 is needed for conversion of homocysteine and can, therefore, prevent conditions like heart attack, stroke or coronary heart disease.
Slows again. low vitamin B12 is prevalent in older individuals and it’s much more common than generally perceived. There’s a wealth of evidence which suggests that optimal vitamin B12 is important for healthy aging and that low levels are associated with an increased risk of chronic diseases of aging including cardiovascular disease, dementia, cognitive impairment and osteoporosis.
THE TAKEAWAY
A vitamin B12 shot will boost your energy, and help you think and act clearly to regain your edge. Our doctors are skilled and no-pain vitamin injections. And if you’re unsure of the other daily supplements you should be taking, we’re ready to answer your questions. Visit the Naturopathic Clinic today!
Originally from PRO Pulse July-August 2017
