There is no arguing against the fact that we all need all vitamins to survive and thrive. We need all vitamins; there is no question about that. But we have to pay closer attention to our intake of vitamin B12 because of many reasons.
What is Vitamin B12?
Vitamin B12, often known as cobalamin, is naturally found in animal food products. It can also be included in supplements or food. Red blood cells and DNA both require vitamin B12; it is also an essential factor in the growth and operation of brain and nerve cells.
Vitamin B12 binds to the protein in the meals we eat. Vitamin B12 is released into its free form in the stomach by hydrochloric acid and enzymes. Vitamin B12 then joins with a protein known as the intrinsic factor to be absorbed farther down in the small intestine.
B12 is present in supplements and foods that have been fortified, making them potentially easier to absorb. There are numerous vitamin B12 pills on the market. Studies have not revealed a significant difference, despite claims that some forms—such as sublingual tablets or liquids inserted beneath the tongue to be absorbed through the tissues of the mouth—had better absorption than conventional tablets.
Although vitamin B12 tablets are sold in large dosages well beyond the recommended dietary limit, these quantities do not guarantee that the total portion will be absorbed because sufficient amounts of intrinsic factors are also required. Doctors may advise muscle B12 injections for severe vitamin B12 deficiency caused by an insufficient intrinsic factor (pernicious anemia).
Why We Need Vitamin B12
You gain from vitamin B12 injections by having more energy and stamina, better quality and longer-lasting sleep, a faster metabolism, better mental clarity, and a more balanced immune system. This water-soluble vitamin is essential for maintaining the health of nerve cells, one of the immune system’s key activities.
Due to its critical function in renewing nerve fibers and mending nerve damage, vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining healthy nerves. The role vitamin B12 plays in the production of myelin, the substance that forms the protective sheath around the nerve fibers, might be the most significant of vitamin B12’s many health advantages from the perspective of nerve health.
The other benefits of vitamin B12 include the following:
- Improved metabolism
- Higher energy levels
- Better concentration
- Easier weight loss
- Enhanced immune system
- Accelerated hair growth
Vitamin B12 Deficiency
The best approach to tell if someone is vitamin B12 deficient is not to measure vitamin B12 levels in the blood because some deficient individuals can have regular vitamin B12 levels.
Homocysteine and methylmalonic acid levels in the blood are stronger indicators of proper vitamin B12 activity than homocysteine. When there is a vitamin B12 deficit, these numbers rise. According to estimates, up to 15% of the general population may be vitamin B12 deficient.
Sings of vitamin B12 deficiency include the following:
- Megaloblastic anemia is a disorder with fewer red blood cells and larger than normal ones; it is brought on by a lack of vitamin B12 in the diet or poor absorption.
- Megaloblastic anemia of the pernicious variety is brought on by a deficiency in the intrinsic factor, which prevents the absorption of vitamin B12.
- Drowsiness, weakness
- Nerve injury accompanied by tingling and numbness in the hands and legs
- Loss of memory, confusion
- Dementia
- Depression
- Seizures
Recommended Amounts of Vitamin B12
For men and women 14 years of age and older, the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) is 2.4 micrograms (mcg) per day. The dosage rises to 2.6 mcg and 2.8 mcg daily for pregnancy and nursing, respectively.
The daily dose most likely to prevent harmful side effects in the general population is known as a Tolerable Upper Intake Level (UL). Since there is no known hazardous threshold for vitamin B12, there is no upper limit. However, the risk of bone fractures may be increased by supplements containing 25 mcg or more daily, according to some research.
Sources of Vitamin B12
Vitamin B1 is absorbable from many food sources. These sources include the following:
- Fish and shellfish
- Liver
- Red meat
- Eggs
- Poultry
- Dairy products such as milk, cheese, or yogurt
- Fortified nutritional yeast
- Fortified breakfast cereals
- Enriched soy or rice milk
However, our body’s ability to absorb vitamin B12 diminishes as we age. The solution is simple.
Vitamin B12 Injections
Your ability to absorb the most vitamin B12 from your diet decreases as you age. According to a clinical study, 85% of patients don’t get enough vitamin B12 from their diets. The solution that TEN Salon & Med Spa is Vitamin B12 injections.
These vitamin B12 injections are risk-free and safe to administer. In the initial week of treatment, we may recommend five to seven injections, depending on the severity of your vitamin B12 insufficiency. The treatment works best when done regularly; we advise doing it once a week for four weeks, then once a month.
The Benefits of Vitamin B12 Injections
Vitamin B12 injections can boost your weight reduction, improve your immune system, and strengthen your metabolism. The most apparent benefit is enhanced energy levels. You will notice an increase in energy two to three days after the injection.
The results of the injections can last for up to a week, depending on the patient’s metabolism. You might get redness, swelling, or itching at the injection site; these side effects will fade within a few hours.
Vitamin B12 Toxicity
Some people might worry that they are getting too much vitamin B12. Can you get too much vitamin B12? Since vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, any extra will be excreted in the urine.
It is safe to eat foods, take supplements, or get injections of vitamin B12 to address a deficiency. The Institute of Medicine reports that “no adverse effects have been associated with excess vitamin B12 intake from food, supplements, or injections in healthy individuals.”
Nevertheless, it’s crucial to consult a professional before beginning any high-dosage supplement.
Vitamin B12 with TEN Salon & Med Spa
Get your vitamin B12 injections from TEN Salon & Med Spa. For any questions or concerns, contact us at 970-669-4836 or email hello@tensalonandspa.com.
