B12 (aka COBALAMIN) VITAMIN SHOTS:
Cobalamin is the Healthy Blood Vitamin because it is absolutely essential for producing healthy red blood cells to prevent things like heart disease and anemia. However, Cobalamin is equally as essential for the mind, due to the way in which B12 is responsible for the covering on nerve cells. In addition, B12 keeps the immune system working so that you don’t get sick.
Some people who seem to show signs of “old age” are actually just showing signs of a B12 shortage. You may want to talk to your doctor about shots if you experience: tingling/numbness in hands or feet, moodiness or depression, trouble sleeping, memory loss/forgetfulness, dizziness and loss of balance, or dementia. Due to white blood cell issues from too little B12, you may experience diarrhea, loss of appetite or vomiting. Anemia is a serious issue with its own symptoms of weakness, lack of energy, paleness and bruising easily. Once anemia is actually diagnosed, it may take 8 weekly shots just to get your B12 level back to normal.
B12 is ONLY found in animal foods like meats and dairy, which makes those who avoid animal foods (vegetarians, vegans and macrobiotic diet followers) an immediate high risk group. Even those who rely on soy and other replacements for animal foods (like Brewer’s Yeast) will intake very little B12 in a form that can be used by the body. Others at risk of B12 shortage:
-those over 50
-women who are breast-feeding
-smokers
-those taking Potassium supplements
-anyone who has had Gastric Bypass or other stomach surgery
-those with a Folic Acid deficiency
-anyone with an Iron deficiency
-anyone taking an Acid Reducer (like Pepcid, Zantac or Prilosec)
-people with digestive issues
-those taking Metformin (Glucophage) for high blood sugar or Type 2 diabetes
-regular consumers of alcohol (B vitamins are also excreted faster due to alcohol)
All of the category of B vitamins are water soluble. This means that, generally speaking, the body will harmlessly excrete whatever amount is not absorbed: taking too much isn’t going to hurt anyone. However, since the body is not storing any excess for later use, a deficiency can occur at any time. Previously normal levels can very quickly become deficiencies, causing unexpected problems. Common things like alcohol, smoking, digestive issues and aging make it difficult for the body to absorb the B vitamins. Therefore, many people who believe they have a high intake of a B vitamin are actually needing more.
In older people, shortages in B vitamins cause depression, confusion and memory problems. It has been found that at least a fourth of those who are hospitalized for depression are deficient in B6 & B12. These two vitamins are also important in the processing of carbohydrates, proteins and fats into energy; therefore, some people who are dieting take B shots. Studies show that increasing B6 & B12 may also slow Alzheimer’s. Heart disease may even be prevented through the use of these two B vitamins because of the removal of homocysteines from the blood.
Current patients may request Vitamin shots with or without acupuncture as it is available as a stand alone treatment at a cost of $25. We often have patients come in for a quick B12 when they are suffering from anemia or sleep disorders, having eye problems or are in need of tissue healing. Let us know if you wish to explore the option of B12 injections.