07/07/2022
Do you have a hidden B12 deficiency?
I believe one of the most overlooked deficiencies in Australia, and probably worldwide, is B12 deficiency.
Our reference ranges are too low and so people don’t really notice when they’re B12 deficient.
Once I saw a beautiful couple for fertility issues. Their B12 was so low, it was below 100pmol/L. They had energy issues, mood disturbances, fertility issues, and a general feeling of being unwell. I told them they had to go and get a B12 shot which they did every week for 6 weeks.
They came back and said they both felt like changed people. Even though their doctor said they didn’t need it, they benefited from it significantly. Their mood improved, vitality is back, they had a boost of energy, and they get up from bed feeling good. They explained how great they felt to their doctor and she was so amazed by their story she started having B12 shots as well and told them she felt so much better.
So why are doctors and medical professionals reluctant to give B12 shots? Personally, I think our reference ranges are not up to date or ideal. The Japanese say 500umol/L is their ideal range, with 400umol/L being the lowest they want to see and yet we Australians are saying 150pmol/L is ok. So who’s right? More importantly, who’s healthier?
Well I believe you can tell me that. If you had a B12 shot or took B12 and felt significantly better, then you definitely needed it. Your B12 absorption relies almost solely on your gut and stomach acid breaking down the protein to get the B12 from the meat (no, vegetables will not do). Then you need to have intrinsic factors on the gut lining to bring B12 into circulation, transcobalamin proteins to move it around the body and finally, pancreatic enzymes for absorption.
How many of us have a healthy gut function? Very few!!! The gut microbiome project has highlighted that. With all our radical diets, we are disturbing the microflora in our gut and is affecting its core functions.
B12 is the most important nutrient for you to absorb your folate. If you don’t have enough B12, you can’t use your methylfolate. The methionine cycle slows down and you are more likely to react to methyl’s. So you have to have it at decent levels. I see hundreds and hundreds of patients each year and I can tell you without a doubt B12 deficiency is a major issue.
So if you have any of the following symptoms, you will most likely need more B12.
Continue reading here: https://mthfrsupport.com.au/2016/08/are-you-suffering-from-b12-deficiency/
