This article was originally posted at JamieChasesButterflies.com.
Recently, I found out I was low in vitamin B-12. My doctor wants me to start taking 1000 MCG of B-12 daily. I decided it was time for me to do some research and write up an article about it. While researching, I discovered that those of us who suffer from an autoimmune disorder need to include B-12 into our daily life. There are other reasons to take B-12. Unfortunately, B-12 is not found in plants, it is only found in animal products. Therefore, it seems funny to me that those who are vegan or vegetarian make claims that this is the healthiest diet there is. God created us to need animal products, such as eggs, cheese, milk, and even meat because animal products help with building our DNA and our red blood cells and even our nerves. I’m coming to an understanding that it is a moderation of eating both animal and plants in order to be our full healthy self. Finding that balance is key. I know, I know, it is a struggle. It is easier to eat mindlessly and not have anything to worry about. Unfortunately, that mindset is a myth.
Those who have or have had a B-12 deficiency:
- Those who suffer from Anemia
- Those who have had weight loss surgery, such as gastric bypass or the lap band
- Those who have had their small intestine removed
- Those who have Crohn’s Disease or Celiac Disease
- Those who have bacterial growth
- Those who have parasites
- Those who are heavy drinkers
- Those who have autoimmune disorders
- Those who have had long term use of acid reducing drugs
- Those who are Vegan or vegetarian
- Babies who are born to Vegans or Vegetarian mothers
- Those who are 50 years of age or older
The symptoms of B-12 deficiency:
- Weakness
- Tiredness
- Light headedness
- Heart palpitations
- Shortness of breathe
- Pale skin
- Smooth tongue
- Diarrhea
- Loss of appetite
- Gas
- Nerve problems
- Numbness
- Tingling
- Muscle weakness
- Problems walking
- Vision loss
- Depression
- Memory loss
- Behavioral changes
For me, my doctor suggested that I start taking 1000 MCG a day. I believe that you need to have your doctor test your blood for B-12 and then follow his recommended dosage. Because you can take too much B-12. Always, always follow your doctor’s advice and keep track of all the medications, herbal supplements, and vitamins you take. Because if the doctor doesn’t know what you are taking or your pharmacy, then there can be interactions with your medications. For me, I ask for a copy of my medication list and I keep it in my purse and one in my planner. It’s a small way that I can make sure I have it with me when I go to the doctor, especially if I am going to the ER or having surgery.
Here are some links I would like to share with you:
Ask Dear Jamie to Research a Topic
Jamie Holloway lives in the Portland, Oregon area. Since October 2011 she has been sharing her Journey Toward Health and Wellness with Vasculitis through her blog at JamieChasesButterflies.com. As most of her articles will be about Men’s Health, Jamie intends to write her articles as though she was sharing important information with her brother, nephews and friends. We hope you are as inspired as we are with the raw candor Jamie uses in her writing. If you would like to help support Jamie’s writing efforts please Donate now.
