B-12 Shots: A Miracle?

B-12 supplements and injections have stormed the public the same way energy drinks did a few years ago.  What is all the hype really about?  According to researchers, the B vitamin group helps promote higher metabolism which can lead to a variety of health benefits for users, primarily for those constantly suffering from fatigue and exhaustion.  Cyanocobalamin, commonly known as vitamin B12, is a water soluble vitamin that helps the body convert carbohydrates into glucose.  Glucose is key in the ATP synthesis that powers the human body.  The B group of vitamins is also associated with the breakdown of fats and proteins, including the maintenance of muscle tone and other vital areas of the body.  Mothers with B-12 deficiency more commonly have birth defects than those with high levels of the vitamin.

Are B-12 injections really for me?

While vitamin supplements such as B-12 are usually beneficial for your body, is B-12 really what you need?  Vitamin B12 is important for metabolism, the creation of red blood cells, and maintenance of the central nervous system, however, what most individuals forget is that the average American adult does receive the recommended 2.4mcg of B-12 in his or her daily diet.

Symptoms of B12 deficiency

• Fatigue and exhaustion
• Muscle Weakness
• Dizziness after work
• Diarrhea
• Mouth Sores
• Can lead to pernicious anemia
• Vegetarians are more prone to B12 deficiencies primarily because most B group vitamins are derived from meats.  A lack of protein can also lead to B-12 deficiency, once more strict vegans are more prone to this.

Okay so I have the above symptoms, what should I do now?
While many of the above symptoms do point towards B-12 deficiency, they can also attribute to a wide array of issues.  It’s important to look at what maybe causing your B-12 deficiency because if it is a ongoing issue then shots or supplements won’t necessarily be the cure to the problem.  Genetics can often lead to a B-12 deficiency.  In cases like this studies show that stress and high blood pressure often passes on to the offspring especially when these traits are common during pregnancy.  H-pylori could be another serious cause for these symptoms.  It is often overlooked by some physicians, and can be passed to your body through sexual fluids, raw eggs, and chicken.   H-pylori is a bacteria that is produced in the small intestines and symptoms of it usually include migraine, ulcers, and a mix of both diarrhea and constipation.  So why is this information important?  Well if you do have any of the above problems, especially H-pylori, then your body will always suffer from chronic symptoms of B-12 defiencies.  Before going ahead with B-12 shots or supplements it is important to have proper lab tests done (especially one for H-pylori) to see what the problem can be. Low hydrochloric acid can also lead to a deficiency in B12, and a variety of other issues.  The best way to find out if B-12 shots are for you is once more to have test done.

The article isn’t trying to debunk any of the benefits associated with B-12 shots and supplements, because, yes many users do report having a much healthier and effiencient lifestyle after taking the injections.  Instead the article is trying to inform you about the facts behind B-12 defienincies and the supplements itself before you fork out cash that could possibly be wasted.

If you have any questions or comments please submit them!

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