Why Do I Need B12?
Posted June 15, 2020 in Medical Weight Management
2 Minute Read:
B12 is an essential nutrient for overall well being. It is critical for the health of blood cells and nerves and plays a part in regulating metabolic processes. To be usable, the body must separate the B12 from the food protein that it is attached to and re-combine with an agent that allows for absorption. Many steps in this process can degrade the vitamin or cause absorption to be disrupted, leading to a deficiency that has characteristic symptoms.
What Are the Signs I May Need B12?
Indicators of a B12 deficiency include fatigue and weakness, nerve damage, constipation, and balance issues. Older adults may have trouble absorbing B12, prohibiting the body from using it entirely. Absorption can also be a problem for people who follow vegetarian or vegan diets, suffer from conditions such as Celiac or Crohn’s disease, or have had gastrointestinal surgery.
B12 is essential to avoid developing chronic conditions, such as anemia. Even if a clinical deficiency is not present, B12 is important for feeling well, with bodily processes such as metabolic function, cell rejuvenation, and energy production.
Can I Get B12 from Natural Sources?
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the best food sources of B12 can be found in beef, liver, and clams. Fish, eggs, and dairy products are also an excellent natural source. Additionally, almost any multivitamin readily available at the drugstore will contain a range of B nutrients, including B12.
How Else Can I Get a Boost of B12?
For those with B12 deficiencies or anemia, there are several concentrated products available with a prescription, including a nasal spray and tablets that are taken orally. However, the most effective way to increase your B12 levels is via injection. This is because the injection bypasses any absorption issues the patient may have.
How Can B12 Help With Weight Management?
While B12 is not guaranteed to help with weight management, this essential vitamin has been known to support an individual’s ability to process fats or carbohydrates. This can help some people regulate their weight.
B12 injections are given intramuscularly (into the muscle), usually in the thigh. This needle is thin, and the procedure is quick and painless.
How Many Treatments Will It Take?
The dosage and frequency for B12 injection therapy need to be decided in consultation with a medical professional. Most courses involve daily or weekly shots of vitamin B12. Then, a long-term maintenance program involving monthly shots can begin.
Interested in Learning More?
If you feel you could benefit from the boost of energy and metabolic efficiency derived from regular B12 injections, don’t hesitate to call the skilled care team at the Be-YOU-tiful MedSpa by calling (707) 575-1626 or by filling out our online contact form.
