STRESS!!! I developed a Vitamin B12 deficiency that started to produce brain fog, forgetfulness, irritability, dizziness, and extreme fatigue. Although I gravitate toward veggies, I am not fully vegetarian. My doctor and I discussed the impact of work-related stress on the ability of my body to absorb B12. I think we are all, in theory, aware of how negatively stress can impact our health, but this was a HUGE wake-up call for me. Now, I track my macros daily, get monthly shots, and make sure I am getting enough protein. And, I've quit my job. Crossing my fingers, this next position is less stressful than the previous one.
I’m also low in b12 but found out I have a gluten allergy. I believe cutting out the gluten now will help me to absorb b12 better. But those b12 shot are bomb. Always check with your dr. I had to go see a natropathic dr to get the answers. The brain fog lifted in 2-3 days cutting out gluten.
As a vegan I always ask for my B-12 levels to be checked annually. At first, my doctor didn’t think it was necessary and said my insurance probably wouldn’t pay for the lab work. I insist that it be done. It’s shocking that doctors don’t understand that vegans need to monitor their levels. Thanks for the photos included.
Do you need to supplement B12 to keep your levels in normal range? Mines have been steadily declining since going vegan 2 years ago but only recently started to supplement as I was having symptoms of deficiency…
Yes! Vegans need to supplement B-12. The oral form takes awhile to build up. Much faster is intramuscular injections. You can buy B-12 injections and syringes over the counter at a pharmacy. (At least, that's the case in Canada.) My doctor gave me some injections and then showed me how to do it and sent me to a drugstore to do it myself.
@@erinrozanski5013 great. Thanks for the reply. I will look into injections. I’m in the “normal range” but on the lower end. Will see if it helps my fatigue 🤞🏽
I've been a vegan 6 years now, and though I supplement, it's true I really should get checked regularly. A doctor checked it the other day looking into a health complaint. I was happy to learn my iron and vitb are perfect! So relieved to see I'm doing it right 🙂
Dr. Dray, I cannot say enough good things about you and your channel. Your brain is huge. The amount of information you assimilate and articulate is incredible. I find you to be such an effective teacher for both those of us with medical training (and lifelong obsession with skincare) and the layman both. Also love the balance you demonstrate with staying on top of latest trends with ingredients and new products balanced with practical and clinical experience. I hope your following continues to grow! Thank you for all the time and effort you put in to this.
Thank you for the video. I’m a 33 year old recovering alcoholic.. 12 pack a day , then a few years later a fifth of vodka a day . That’s Around the time my nutrition really started getting bad. I’ve never really been a big meat eater, and when you’re drinking every single day your body really only wants alcohol. I am pretty positive I’ve been depleted in the vitamins for years. I currently have three months sober And There’s way too many more scary things to explain that my body is telling me and my situation can improve if I just put the bottle down. I have been watching a lot of videos about nutrition and vitamins. My biggest concern is drinking a gallon of water a day, large amounts of B vitamins , Magnesium, and Setting reminders to eat. Sometimes I have to force myself to eat. But because of the damage I’ve done I have to take my nutrition very seriously now. I’m pretty sure I’m going to make it. I’m pretty sure I’m going to be a success story. God bless
I’m proud of you! My mother is a recovering alcoholic, 26 year sober. I’m so proud of her. I read your story I don’t even know I do but I know that struggle. Just remember on days when it’s really tough, you are setting an example for someone else who is struggling, and that’s the best gift you can ever give. You’re stronger than you know! You are so worth all the good in the world go out and grab it
This is one of the most overlooked vitamin deficiencies in healthcare. Even when my mom was starting to have neurological symptoms, I had to ASK that B12 be checked. My immediate family members have Crohn's disease and Celiac disease along with some of the symptoms you mentioned. No one ever had their B12 checked. Nice to know it can cause permanent neurological damage. If only there were more conscientious doctors like you Dr Dray the world would be a better place. You really need to be your own advocate in healthcare.
Ulcerative Colitis for 23 years here and I previously didn’t think much about it. Ended up at a hematologist appointment due to dangerously high platelet levels and she put me on B12 injections and an iron infusion. Not too long ago I finished my MBA with a 4.0 GPA, was a full time student and full time employed, made time for some extracurricular organizations…. so I don’t think it affected me as much neurologically as it did physically, however I was fatigued and exhausted 24/7. Like for decades, it was so normal I usually failed to mention it at doctors appointments cause I got so used to it.
I was diagnosed with "ADVANCED DEMENTIA" and was hospitalized. I had a severe deficiency in B VITAMINS. I shuffled, couldn't hold anything, unable to talk, no memory at all, didn't understand what people were saying. It was scary.
@@samsmom400 sounds a lot like ASD doesn't it? For us, Thiamine was a miracle, started to talk. CRAZY... Doctors are missing this stuff and it is mind boggling!
Wow! I'm type II diabetic. I'm on Metformin ER, just increased to 1000mg from 500. I also take heart burn medicine 1 per day as well. After I started the 1000ER I experienced fatigue, anxiety, lack of appetite, and digestion problems. After researching I went to my Pharmacist and asked for help obtaining B12 supplement. I now include 1000mg dose of B12 with my routine medications in the morning and have to say I have eliminated my negative issues I started to experience. Funny thing is my Primary Care Doc knowing my symptoms wanted to prescribe Prozac. I rejected it and with B12 I feel so lucky I did. I think I have been B12 deficient since starting Metformin back in 2013, as I figured getting older was causing some of my experiences. I THINK THERE SHOULD BE MORE PUBLIC EDUCATION ABOUT VITAMIN B12 AND SYMPTOMS THAT B12 CAN REMEDY, I FEEL PEOPLE ARE BEING MISDIAGNOSED, SPECIALLY USERS OF METFORMIN.
I had a severe B12 deficiency due to pernicious anemia, loss of intrinsic factor (also I have Sjogren's and celiac so, I lost ALL my hair two years ago. Injected B12 helped me so much, also treatment for the anemia and a bacterial infection that caused it. Thanks for this great informative video!
Thank you for doing this video. I felt horrible and my hands and feet were buzzing. I told my doctor, and I was severely B12 deficient. Supplements/injections - I'll all better now!
I used to have occasional skin sensitivity where hot spots would flare up usually on my arms and sometimes torso. These hot spots are sporadic, one small pin point at a time, different locations, are not visible, but the skin would feel highly irritated to the lightest touch. Blood test concluded vitamin B12 deficiency and after taking supplements regularly I rarely experience them now.
I am vegan and for a long time (8 years now ) For the past 4 years I have been having severe brain fog, severe fatigue and burning legs, also, and I was shedding hair. I went to 3 different doctors. My b12 was at 283 pg/ml. I wasn't "deficient" and those doctors said I was fine. I finally found a doctor to listened. He agreed that was a very low number and I was started on supplements. I am feeling much better. Get your blood work checked! Especially if you are vegan or vegetarian.
Ferritin plays a roll too. Seems to partner with b12. Seems like if one is low both are. Some say of your b12 is less than 600, it is deficiency. It's all scary when we struggle and doctors don't pay attention to the suboptimal and low levels. I've spent 3 years going through this battle. It's awful
@@alisue4426 Everything else on my blood work was great.The doctor checked everything. Only B12 was low. I really thought it was MS or something horrible. My gait was weird. Standing in the shower was hard. It was horrible. But I am on the mend. :)
I’ve been vegan for 10 years, B12 deficiency has always been a concern for me but I’m guilty of not being great about taking my gaily vitamins. As soon as I started this video I ran for my b12 bottles thanks for the reminder!
I got diagnosed in 2008 when I was 25 years and have been on shots every 3 months. When I get low I feel like I’m walking on a boat getting all wobbly. My arms live they’re own life and I have sores on my knuckles from bumping my hands into everything. instantly after being told something I forget it. When I got diagnosed I couldn’t walk or lift my arms. And the doc took one look at me and said I know what this is and you need b12 possibly a blood transfusion but I luckily didn’t need it.
Ok wow, maybe I am B12 deficient… Im always knocking myself on things and my arms hurt a lot and my legs feel sluggish. Plus I have the tongue thing for suuure!
@@CoRtNZ1 Legs being "heavy, shaky, jello legs" was a crazy symptom. Since I have been on B12 for 2 weeks my legs feel normal again. Plus my brain is not as foggy. I feel like I'm in the world again.
You had talked about symptoms of not having enough vitamin B12 in another video and I had made a comment that I had discoloration on my tongue and problems with short term memory. I already have peripheral neuropathy so that was nothing new. Well, I saw a Specialist for my tongue and all the testing that was done only showed I was low on B12. My Neurologist sent me for a test and I will have that result soon. I ordered the Vitamin B12 Supplement today.
The metformin bit is very frustrating to me. I am taking it due to PCOS and none of doctors that prescribed it to me during last few years mentioned the risk of B12 deficiency. I find it very strange. I am vegan as well, so it is definitely of concern to me. It should be definitely reminded to patient and maybe suggested to supplement it.
I learned that the serum b12 test is not an accurate read of b12 deficiency, as it only measures the inactive form. To determine how much b12 you have/if low, is to measure “active b12” level which circulates in the blood for your brain and body - in addition to testing active b12, you should also request b12 binding, homocysteine, methylmalonic acid, homoransscolalamine. If not run through the lab, get private pay outside testing
My doctor recommended B12 supplements during my depression, to help with brain functions such as focus and memory. Don’t know if it’s a placebo effect, but I soon felt an improvement
I found the vast majority of my depression went away and I basically am myself again since I've raised my ferritin, vitamin D, and b12. Nutrition is seriously ignored too much.
I was just diagnosed with pernicious anemia. My ANA levels have been abnormal since my breast cancer surgery. So thankful I have wonderful Drs that are thorough. Love listening to you!
Thank you for posting this. I have obtained the information through my GP, results from blood tests found out that I am low in B12. I now have to have 3 injections for 2 weeks followed by a further blood test. Your information seems spot on and could explain a lot of my past experiences, which would have not necessarily been picked up earlier. Edited to state that I am not vegan.
I so wish I had had you around a few years ago. Was prescribed Metformin for a gyne issue a few years ago. experienced severe gastric pain and pins and needles in the soles of my feet within a could of months. asked my docs if the cause could be Metformin, was told "Nope, keep at it" and given a gastric referral instead. Pain worsened, total loss of appetite, feet issues worsened. Asked the gastroenterilogist if it could all be related to Metformin, told "Nope. Keep taking Metformin. Take Omeprazole for the gastric pain. And let's do some invasive tests!" Ended up being admitted to hospital for severe anemia, had multiple blood transfusions. Asked Head of Gyne if gastric pain and feet numbness could be due to Metformin and that Omeprazole was doing nothing for the gastric pain, told "Nope. Double your Metformin." I ignored him, stopped the Metformin and asked for a neurology referral for my feet as they were now so bad that I had no sensation. Neurologist diagnosed me with peripheral neuropathy and said "You should have come to see me sooner". Saw a new Gyne who confirmed it was down to Metformin. Got B12 shots but stuck with permanent nerve damage.😢
Really appreciate your deep dive into B12. As a 63 year old lady I know the negative effects low B12 can have. I get an intramuscular injection monthly.
What kind of b12 do you get injected? I heard there is one that has cyanide? I take drops and liver pills which help my poor absorption due to intestinal dysbiosis that is slowly healing.
@ForgiveAndLove09 my doctor injects hydroxocobalimin for my b12 deficiency. My level was 218 but that was blood test results from a month prior to them being reviewed. Luckily I had a very insightful doctor who seemed to know quite a lot about b12 deficiency and stuck me on injections. I've had 3 so far and still feel horrible lol. I'm determined to get another test done because I still don't feel like they checked everything.
As a long time vegetarian, this is often on my mind, with supplements and vitamin & food choice. I’d love a vitamin series! Thank you , happy new year💐
Yes, I'm vegan and I was afraid she wouldn't mention vegans as there are quite a few vegans who don't take supplements but rely on natural plantbased sources of B12, but there aren't any reliable plantbased sources of B12. No. There isn't. Take your B12 supplements, vegans!
If you require a vitamin pill, you're not eating right. Think about it. Were our ancestors over the past hundreds of thousands of years all suffering from B12 and iron deficiencies because they didn't have the necessary vitamin pills?
I’ve had ulcerative colitis since my late twenties, and I’m 67 now. My doctor supplemented me with folic acid and B12, since excess iron can cause bacteria to overgrow in the colon.
It’s so important that there is a doctor who has vegan diet to tell ppl that vegans and vegetarians NEED B12 supplements or at least get regular check-ups. I have vegan friends who take offence when I told them they should get it checked(I am not vegan nor vegetarian myself) they think I am telling them that veganism and vegetarianism are not good…so thank you! I hope those friends of mine would listen now after watching your video
Yes, I have pernicious anemia caused by an autoimmune disease and I have probably had it was several years! They think it was caused by decades IBS. It got so bad that I ended up having demyelination of my spinal cord! There were signs for years but none of my primary care doctors tested my B12 levels! It took me having to go to a neurologist to get ky levels checked! He actually called me letting me know that my B12 level was 57 and didn’t know how I was doing life day to day! I now have to give myself inter muscular B12 shots every 3 weeks. The demyelination resolved thank God but I still have some nerve issues.
Anyone who has had gastric bypass surgery where they staple most of your stomach to leave you with a small pouch that functions as your entire stomach. Then they attach (bypass) the small intestine to your new stomach pouch. This effects your absorption of vitamins and minerals but also that intrinsic factor effects the B12. I had this procedure back in 2003 and I developed a major iron and B12 deficiency to where I was majorly anemic as a direct result of the stomach surgery. My hemoglobin was dangerously low around 6 and I had to receive iron infusions and blood products before this caused multi organ failure including the heart. I remember not being able to get up and walk or exert myself in any way without getting dizzy and very short of breath. So this is another side effects or health issue from low B12.
Thank you, I have been diagnosed with B12 deficiency a few years ago and was put on B12 supplement for the next few years. It is good to know the why and the how because some doctors are not very good at giving the explanations that I was seeking.
Thanks Doc for great content! I am one of the people with a genetic functional B12 deficiency. I'll need shots or topical for life. I have had some serious neurological issues over the years and doctors diagnosed me with MS. Except it isn't, it's lack of B12 getting into my cells. So I am posting this for anyone having neurological symptoms. Adamantly request additional testing in order to rule out B12 issues. Serum B12 levels are not reliable if you are presenting with neurological symptoms. I figured this out myself with no help from my GP or Neurologist, despite having high serum levels without supplementation. PubMed has a bunch of research about Functional B12 Deficiency yet most doctors are clueless. Thank goodness that I am science minded and did my own research. Ask for testing ruling out pernicious anemia (which includes several tests), also folate, homocysteine and MMA levels in addition to B12 serum. Pay for it out of pocket if necessary. MS is not the only cause of demilenation contrary to what most neurologist will tell you. Lyme disease is another common condition that can mimic many autoimmune conditions. You are your own best advocate.
@@crivera313 in the US you need a prescription now for shots. There are some topicals to be found. Either shots or transdermal are the best forms if you have a deficiency that is causing noticeable symptoms.
Small addition to this wonderful comment: even for people without functional B12 deficiency, serum B12 is not reliable. Always ask for your Holo-TC to be checked - if it's too low, you are deficient in B12, even if your serum levels are still considered normal.
Hi! I have a question : how can we use vitamin B12 supplement without having pimples for acne prone skin? I understand that vitamin B12 is a trigger to breakouts if we have too much of it. So, I wonder, with what dosage should we begin? Thanks Dr Dray!
Am not a Dr, this is just from personal experience, 500 mcg per day to address deficiency (in morning), once a deficiency is addressed and you start noticing a lot of extra energy you can go down to 50-150 mcg daily long term (if you have medications depleting your B12 you may need more, this is just for otherwise healthy people). A lot of people swear by a weekly injection or excessive one off dose, don't recommend it, it will make you hyper on the day of taking it and interfere with sleep and by the time you are ready for another big dose you are tired again (can turn your moods / energy levels into a rollercoaster).
Probably one of the least understood and still under diagnosed deficiency were facing today. Wife thought she we was losing it and having multiple neurological issues several years ago. Was literally in a wheel chair for a few weeks. General Practitioner, Nuerologist, and several other specialists misdiagnosed her issue. Finally her rheumatologist suggested the old fashioned way of checking her blood for b12 which takes several weeks. The modern is almost instant. It will determine b12 levels but can't tell if your body will actually absorb it (intrinsic factor). All of the doctors ruled a b12 deficiency out since her blood levels showed decent levels. Within a few days of receiving the b12 injections she started recovering. Fortunately her Rheumatologist started treating her before he received the results. Both the neurologist and blood doctor stated that they weren't aware of the intrinsic factor and b12. It still kills people every day in our country according to the Rheumatologist.
Just got diagnosed with B12 deficiency. I’ve been a vegetarian for 8 years, and don’t like milk. Receiving shots now, and will begin supplements. I was extremely tired and had trouble getting over an infection.
Loving these vitamin/mineral vids! I had no idea B12-deficiency could cause permanent neurological damage. Scary! Also, I'm one of those people who needs to be careful with how much B12 I consume in supplement form or else I'll get cystic acne around my chin and jawline. Ugh.
I was diagnosed with "ADVANCED DEMENTIA" and was hospitalized. I had a severe deficiency in B VITAMINS. I shuffled, couldn't hold anything, unable to talk, no memory at all, didn't understand what people were saying. It was scary.
See my reply to Curl Girl about what happened to my aunt in January it was scary and devastating to think if only she had gone for yearly blood tests she would still be alive today
this explains even more why my GP insisted that i take a B12 supplement when he put me on Metformin for my diabetes. i've been taking a B Complex supplement 2-3 times a week and i've noticed some huge changes (probably also due to both getting the diabetes under control, as well as taking iron supplement for low iron/anemia) also been taking magnesium and a vitamin D supplement (another important vitamin)
Having vitamin b12 deficiency and horrible thought I was dying or getting paranoid a lot of stomach pain and I didn't feel like eating , I advise you to always do vitamin b12 tests !!!!
I lost 90 pounds and ate very little b12 rich foods during that time. I developed dermatitis for the first time ever in my scalp and face, hair loss, weird episodes of tongue inflammation, muscle pains, neuropathy and eventually severe vertigo and debilitating ringing in my ears. I saw so many doctors during that time but it was not until I saw a functional medicine nurse practitioner that I found out my B12 was low. Now that I am starting to get closer to optimal levels so many symptoms have calmed way way down.
You probably need more than B12, you sound like you have whole bunch of deficiencies going on. Did you have a bloodwork done to see where else you might be deficient? How about your D3, Iron, etc. it’s never just one vitamin.
For me, it showed up in an annual exam that my white blood count was extremely low. Because of my history we didn’t think it was the C word but I was moving so the specialist ran every test he would normally run over time. It was B12 and I got a serious of shots. One sign I didn’t realize was a sign of deficiency is that I was having tingling in my fingers.
@@reneeturcottecicigoi9435 I have been taking supplements for 6 years and always test fine now. It’s important. I’m not qualified (not a doctor) to give advice but I have read this can lead to nerve damage and possibly mental function decline if not treated. And the tingling went away once I got my levels up. My mom had this issue and my daughter does too. I am not sure if there’s a genetic component or just a common issue.
@@kbm124 I had 4-5 shots if I remember correctly. One a week until the levels went up and I have kept them up since with supplements. It was over 6 years ago now.
I noticed before I started taking vitamin b12 supplements my skin felt so dry and tight and looked red I noticed the difference immediately after I started taking them. Now I don’t get sun bunt every time I step outside as well it’s crazy how important that vitamin is
A painful ‘pins and needles’ sensation in your hands is another symptom of B-12 deficiency. I had all of these you’ve mentioned and more. I wish I never even heard of vegetarianism as I suffered for years with low energy and other problems due to a severe B-12 deficiency. …… …… It would have been helpful if you’d explained the difference between the different types of B-12, the synthetic Cyancobalamin and the natural Methylcobalamin form which is easier for your body to utilize. Also, if a person is hypochloridic (low stomach acid) or lacks the proper gut flora they’ll have difficulty absorbing B-12. You did mention intrinsic factor which is good. You could have mentioned that if a person has problems absorbing B-12 they can take a sublingual (under the tongue) form of B-12, preferably Methylcobalamin. Read the labels! Most forms of B-12 sold are the synthetic Cyancobalamin form. All food that are ‘fortified’ with B-12 are the super cheap synthetic Cyancobalain form of the vitamin. A great book to read on this subject is titled ‘Could it be B12?’ Read the reviews on Amazon.
I got my doctor to check my blood levels after being super fatigued and feeling weak. I had a B12 level of 111pg/ml so glad I went. Instantly went on b12 shots. No clue on the cause still. Very informational video!
I had a B12 deficiency for no apparent reason and no symptoms. I’d highly recommend having your B12 levels checked, or supplement. Since it’s water soluble, you can’t really overdose.
Same here- until my eye doctor sent me for some very specific bloodwork. Turns out that I have a genetic mutation , MTHFR for short, which prevents absorption of some vitamin B nutrients. Waiting to see my GP for some advice.
Gerilynn Reilly I have a hunch I have it too. How did you get on with your diagnoses and also can you remember which b vits aren’t absorbed so well with that condition?
I’m a grad student learning about these diseases and processes and I got so excited that this all connected. We recently learned about b12 processes and I was shocked that omeprazole affects b12. My physician unfortunately did not tell me that after the last few visits and I discovered it on my own. I’m more conscious about eating foods with b12 as I have experiences the effects of b12 deficiency. Great video Dr. Dray!
B12 deficiency is no joke. I took a daily dose every few days plus fortified foods and I had horrible symptoms like breathing problems, joint pain, extreme fatigue, excema on my hands, my immune system went downhill. I honestly thought I was dying. Then one day I just thought to take a higher dose for a change (500micrograms) and then 1g the next day and all my symptoms just disappeared.
Wow, my husband has been on Metformin for a long long time and has neuropathy. He sometimes gets brain fog too so I am going ask his doc about adding a B12 supplement to his regimen. He has been prescribed high dose vitamin D because he is very deficient in that; maybe a B12 supplement is needed as well. Thank you so much for that info!!
thank u dr dray for this!!! Ive had b12 deficiency for almost 4 years now bc my gut doesnt absorb it properly and when i found out my doctor told me my levels were only 8 (in whatever unit it’s measured in) and i needed to take the injections or else i was at risk for becoming permanently paralyzed. I ignored it for too long bc i thought i was just being a lazy teenager sleeping the whole day but when i started blacking out and feeling numb in my legs i forced my mother to take me to the doctor. And even my doctor asked me how am i still able to walk after he got my blood test results bc 8 is critically low. I never knew it existed before then and everyone i explained it to never knew it existed either and STILL people don’t understand how serious it is😭 Also b12 EFFICIENCY is a thing too and is just as dangerous!! Also i was vegan for a month in the same year i found out which didnt help bc i never knew i needed to take a b12 supplement, so please do if u are vegan!!! Also i wont lie like the nurses but the injection hurts like HELL bc its in the butt and they keep the vitamin B complex injection (the one i take is called neurobion) in the fridge so it stings as it flows down ur leg and makes ur butt cramp but just take it anyways and try to relax bc its better than paralysis, u got this!!! okay thanks for reading this! Hope this comment can help someone :) 🌸❤️
I AL A diabetic on Metformin and have been on it for about 30 years. Whenever I asked about whether taking Metformin might be at issue for my hair loss, the GYN didn’t know. But after having a CBC a few weeks ago and being told I needed to take iron, I can’t remember how I picked up on taking liquid B12 also. But I started taking them together, about 1-1/2 months ago. My hair has been thinning since my 20s and it really started getting bad, in my early 40s. I’m now in my late 50s. I noticed a couple of weeks ago, that I might be regrowing hair. But, you know how it goes. That you think your mind is playing tricks, unless and until you start seeing some significant coverage. So, I’m 1-1/2 months in and, I’m pretty sure I’m seeing growth. I don’t get too excited however. I feel some follicles or areas may be entirely dead, although it may be too soon to tell. However, it’s possible that, if it continues growing like it is, that I’m 6 months to a year, I “may” have full coverage. And, yes, the combo of b12 and iron has made me feel great, although I know it was probably the initial dose of B12 that made me feel great, the day following the first day I started taking it. Just wish I’d known this, all these years. What problems I could’ve avoided.
I am really glad I found your page. I have been binge watching since. This video was informative. I suffer from vitamin D and iron deficiency. I also have the hyperpigmentation on the knuckles. Originally I thought it must be related to the other two. Now I will say that it could still be relayed to winter because it does seem to get better when the warmer weather hits. Also this only started in the last two years. What I wanted to ask is if you could do a video on how to get a full vitamin work up, what questions to ask, how to get insurance to pay for it, and if not would you recommend at home test.
Although my doctor do understand the adverse reactions of a low B12 level, she didn't seem to correlate my Veganism with a B12 problem. I insisted that my B12 be checked and I'm glad I did because my level was 4 (four)!!!!! I knew something was wrong with me. I was having severe muscle aches especially in my lower back. I couldn't concentrate at times, and my hair was falling out in massive amounts. So much was going on. My doctor put me on B12 immediately!! She understood the urgency. My levels went up so well that they had to tell me to stop because it was like 3,000 or something. So now I get a check every 3 months and for right now I'm taking no supplements because it's too high. To be honest my doctor had me on one pill a week and the reason it's so high is because I also wouldn't bought an over counter and was taking it daily along with my one pill a week. Which was ridiculously too much.
Madam your a genius, what you have described are many of the symptoms I am experiencing, initially thought it was due to taking the covid vaccine but having listened to this piece you have given me a new path to explore. Thank you…
This was super informative, and I would know because I've done an extremely deep dive due to my own recent very low b12 levels. B12 is used everywhere in your body but is unique in a couple ways, one is that goes no where in your body except through your digestive tract unescorted. To be absorbed it must be helped through your intestines mostly by intrinsic factor that comes from your stomach and a some bound with haptocorrin from your saliva. There's a bit more to it but the binding is a limiting factor so taking large amounts if you are deficient is unlikely to be excreted in urine as your body can only absorb what is bound. Your body also normally stores large amounts of excess b12 bound to haptocorrin(holocobalamin) in your blood stream and your kidneys reabsorb b12 and very little is normally excreted in the urine. It would take 2-10 years to become deficient using these stores. My point is that the excess in supplements just keeps on going through and is excreted in your stool rather than your urine.
Great video! 😊 What are your thoughts about cyanocobalamin vs methylcobalamin vs Hydroxycobalamin? Some people say that cyanocobalamin is no good. I get B12 shots and have a choice between cyanocobalamin and hydroxycobalamin and the latter really stings and hurts! But if it's better maybe it's worth it?
My niece just had a baby 7 mths ago - and had been depressed, down, lethargic etc......She went to the doctor and got prescribed some anti-depression medication but also had some bloodwork - which showed she had almost no Vit B12, so now is having infusions.
I've been having confusion and memory loss for years. I'm in my twenties. I couldn't get a doctor's appointment for the longest time, but when I did, my blood work came back as "extremely extremely low" on B12 and I was prescribed B12 injections twice a week. there's a long history of dementia in my family and I'm being told that my cognitive decline over the last few years might be caused by this (every doctor before told me to just stop stressing) should I be getting some sort of MRI done or something to see the effects on my brain? My family doctor says they've never tested my B12 before, so they don't know how long I've been deficient. Will my cognitive abilities come back once my B12 levels are normal? To give you an example of how bad it's gotten-- I've put my clothes on the curb and had them picked up as trash instead of the actual trash. I've forgotten entire long conversations, conversations where people said I'd changed their life due to what I said, days after they've occurred. I'm losing things all around my apartment and finding things in odd places with no idea how they got there. For the longest time, my family shrugged off my concerns and said "what is a doctor going to do? Give you memory pills? There's nothing they can do." I'm really scared. I don't remember the last time I felt like myself and I really just want my memory back. When I was a kid, people said I had the best memory in the family. Now I feel like an old woman.
Oh bless you , so glad you’ve had the help you need. It’s so awful when family don’t realise how bad you feel and are not helping you . I have a condition which most people have not heard of and so I know what it feels like too be misunderstood I’m sure you will feel better soon you are young but ask your doctor for reassurance. Sending you a big hug.
I was diagnosed with "ADVANCED DEMENTIA" and was hospitalized. I had a severe deficiency in B VITAMINS. I shuffled, couldn't hold anything, unable to talk, no memory at all, didn't understand what people were saying. It was scary. I was literally a shell of a person. I just sat and never moved. I was also told I was stressed, but stress depletes this vitamin. No, DO NOT GET AN MRI, IT'S USELESS. Been there, done that. It will more than likely show that you're "normal". Just start taking complex B vitamins. Or go to your doctor and ask for a weekly injection, it's covered by insurance.
I would like to see more programs like this giving us an idea what is good for someone who's not good for us these are essential for our human existence to continue going iPhone 1 and 76 years old I keep working because my health has been pretty good so far but I want to continue because the cost to live is so high and I make very little income from my retirement so I have to continue working long as possible please keep up with these programs there imperative to have
Dr. Dray, as a vegan and acne prone, I am a little bit nervous to take b12 supplements. How much is too much before it can cause acne break outs? Thanks!
I'm acne prone too and I've been taken B12 supplements for 12 years. Not any increase of pimples at all. And all my vegan friends who take supplements don't have acne or more acne 🙏🏼
When I take b12 for a couple weeks the one thing I notice is that my hand writing improves and I don't feel weakness in my arm or shake when holding a pen. The nerves in my arms get better.
The doctors I went to kept on giving me painkillers and after one time I just gave up on doctors. Yes, sounds bad but I am educated enough to know what my body does not need. So, I started studying about nutrition and in less than 2 days I knew I had a B-12 deficiency. I am vegetarian and my symptoms were straight: Neuropathy, depression, forgetfulness (I genuinely began to think I have dementia, I would forget while speaking) (Also anemia, but I knew that was bc of iron deficiency). Some days I was even psychotic. And my deficiency wasn't even serious. I had no visible symptoms (like the glossy tongue) apart from frizzy hair (to tell you, they were not always like that). I chose a new doc and fortunately he prescribed like 7 vitamins and minerals (E acetate, C, D3, Folate, Cobalamine. Iron...) and my nerve pain is almost gone (at least it's managed). Some days my psychosis made me think I might be developing schizophrenia :D. Why am I making a comment about this on the internet? GET YOUR VITAMIN B-12 LEVELS CHECKED (Didn' t mean to yell just aggressively emphasize :P) Not only B-12, but all vitamins and minerals, please.
I was diagnosed with "ADVANCED DEMENTIA" and was hospitalized. I had a severe deficiency in B VITAMINS. I shuffled, couldn't hold anything, unable to talk, no memory at all, didn't understand what people were saying. It was scary.
Best absorbed B12 is methyl cobalamin other form is derived from petroleum and not readily absorbed ALSO place under tongue (sublingual) to help with absorption
Can you comment on the potential cancer risk for supplementing B vitamins? I just watched your HUM ceramide vitamin review and you mentioned the cancer risk, and this video you say they are safe. Can you explain what changed your mind? I can’t decide if I should toss out the vitamins I have or not.
Thank you Andrea! Again, a great content and something that I have been questioning recently. Your video answered all my questions. It’s as if you read our minds and come up with a topic that is so informative and at the right time. Have a great day!
I had b12 deficiency. Was prescribed injections . After 4 th injection my skin went crazy. Never had acne and here I was at 40 covered with pimples. I wish I was told about this side effect
I have Crohn's disease and my first (of six) surgery was an ileial resection about 15 years ago. I have chronically low B12, even with bi-weekly injections, because of poor absorption. I love this new series because I do have some skin struggles and I've been wondering if some of my malnutrition and inflammation issues might be causing them. These are also good tips for me to watch for that might alert me to low vitamin levels before my regular blood work is done. I've definitely experienced a few of these symptoms! Thank you for doing this and sharing your knowledge!
@@leelastoma5809 Wormwood, reishi mushrooms, apple cider vinegar, folate pills and irons pills as well as subluminal B12 are what I take. For me shortness of breath is the main symptom of an iron or B12 deficiency.
Is "high-dose oral" B12 really effective for pernicious anemia? If you can't absorb dietary B12, due to lack of intrinsic factor, would an oral supplement be absorbed? I was diagnosed with pernicious anemia during a bout of sepsis a few years ago, and have injections of cyanocobalamin every two weeks since then, but at first, while we were trying to find the right balance, I was also using sublingual B12 supplements. My understanding was - and is - that oral supplements would be useless, since I wouldn't be able to absorb them. Also, for anyone unfamiliar, one potential symptom of pernicious anemia is depression. I had had treatment-resistant depression for years, and guess what? About 36 hours after an injection, the depression resolved. Thanks for this video, Dr Dray.
Dr. Dray, I hope you see this comment. I have two questions about anti aging in your 20s that you mentioned in one of your videos. Some people say to avoid Vaseline because it’s drying. Is it drying for some people and it’s not for everybody, or is this not true? Secondly, I know that with aging they say to avoid alcohol but I know red wine has antioxidant factors. Will drinking red wine age you?
As someone that physically has " Pernicious Anemia" I can fully relate with not only the information she's giving but my whole lifestyle and what I've had to prevent in my nutrition. Dermatologists are in my experience the most honest Doctors and tend to notice early signs due to their skin expertise great video 😃🌸😃
To my recollection, the research shows acne breakouts are only associated with intramuscular b12 (not oral). A significant percentage of non-vegetarians are also deficient in the US, so more people may benefit from supplementation than you’d think (because meat eaters only get b12 if the animals they ate had adequate amounts, and not all factory farmed animals are supplemented).
A blood test recently picked up my 82 yr. old husband has B12 deficiency & he has injections monthly. I think a lot of older people have it & are not aware.
I was diagnosed with "ADVANCED DEMENTIA" in 2014 (I was in my 50's) and was hospitalized. I had a severe deficiency in B VITAMINS. I shuffled, couldn't hold anything, unable to talk, no memory at all, didn't understand what people were saying. It was scary. Like you, as soon as I started talking, I couldn't remember what I was saying, so I quit. I am WAAAAAAY better!!
I have been receiving b12. since diagnosed with ms. It is the only drug management for that condition. I started at age 22. After 3 healthy births I reached the age of 77. I live with other health issues but still have quality life. Enjoyed your video. For many years doctors laughed at my med solution but a recent exam by a neurologist (wow) comment “ you know there’s nothing I can do for you”. I felt luck to have been given this by a g.p. I worked with. He had been involved in wwIi and found b12 very beneficial.
I was looking up the problem with having low white blood cells earlier. I did read B12 helps. I've always had low iron but everything else was showing fine in my blood results.
@Amschel Bauer I've maintained around 140 since fall of 2020. It took almost a year at that level to see most of my symptoms gone most of the time. My body is sensitive. When it drops a little, I can tell, even if it's still "high".
I have gastroparesis due to vagus nerve damage after a fundoplication. I developed severe anemia due to nutrients not being absorbed because my stomach wouldn't empty. I was on B12 inj for a year and had iron infusions. It is nothing to play with. Vitamin deficiencies are not joke
I had this after I gave birth/breast fed my daughter. I was having SO many difficulties. I was having neurological problems, and warm spots in my legs. I went into the ER for what I thought was a blot clot, and they checked my B12. My B12 was 2 😵💫😵💫 i did a series of injections and was able to get it back up to 500! Super easy to fix. I take a supplement now daily.
Hi everyone, can anyone recommend me the best form of B12 supplement, please?! Which one absorb better? Iam lost. Methylcobalamin.Adenosylcobalamin Cyanocobalamin, Hydroxocobalamin? Thank you!!!
Hello Dr. Dray may I ask a little irrelevant question?- I have been using retinol for 10 years. Starting from 25 and now I 'm 35 and using acnelyse which has 0.1 Tretinoin consistently. Surely my skin is not getting flaky or red anymore, I think it gets used to retinol. Does it mean it doesn't work anymore? Thank you.
STRESS!!! I developed a Vitamin B12 deficiency that started to produce brain fog, forgetfulness, irritability, dizziness, and extreme fatigue. Although I gravitate toward veggies, I am not fully vegetarian. My doctor and I discussed the impact of work-related stress on the ability of my body to absorb B12. I think we are all, in theory, aware of how negatively stress can impact our health, but this was a HUGE wake-up call for me. Now, I track my macros daily, get monthly shots, and make sure I am getting enough protein. And, I've quit my job. Crossing my fingers, this next position is less stressful than the previous one.
Try nutritional yeast and good luck
How did it go?
@@nikhilpachouri1160 Much much better!! Thank you for asking!
How low was your b12
I’m also low in b12 but found out I have a gluten allergy. I believe cutting out the gluten now will help me to absorb b12 better. But those b12 shot are bomb. Always check with your dr. I had to go see a natropathic dr to get the answers. The brain fog lifted in 2-3 days cutting out gluten.
“One of the reasons I love Dermatology so much …” I love hearing people talking about how passionate they are about something!
Thanks 😊
@@DrDrayzday I'm a med student and derm appears in many system problem
😊
Good morning@@DrDrayzday
As a vegan I always ask for my B-12 levels to be checked annually. At first, my doctor didn’t think it was necessary and said my insurance probably wouldn’t pay for the lab work. I insist that it be done. It’s shocking that doctors don’t understand that vegans need to monitor their levels. Thanks for the photos included.
Do you need to supplement B12 to keep your levels in normal range?
Mines have been steadily declining since going vegan 2 years ago but only recently started to supplement as I was having symptoms of deficiency…
Yes! Vegans need to supplement B-12. The oral form takes awhile to build up. Much faster is intramuscular injections. You can buy B-12 injections and syringes over the counter at a pharmacy. (At least, that's the case in Canada.) My doctor gave me some injections and then showed me how to do it and sent me to a drugstore to do it myself.
@@erinrozanski5013 great. Thanks for the reply. I will look into injections. I’m in the “normal range” but on the lower end. Will see if it helps my fatigue 🤞🏽
I'm sorry for u and others where u live as I live in Scotland uk and have our wonderful nhs
I've been a vegan 6 years now, and though I supplement, it's true I really should get checked regularly. A doctor checked it the other day looking into a health complaint. I was happy to learn my iron and vitb are perfect! So relieved to see I'm doing it right 🙂
I'd love if you made more episodes of the vitamin series! So insightful!
Thanks for watching
I would too
Yeah vitamin serious and pigmentation serious 🔥🔥
@aura I agree. I'm loving these nutrition
videos. Great info.
True
Dr. Dray, I cannot say enough good things about you and your channel. Your brain is huge. The amount of information you assimilate and articulate is incredible. I find you to be such an effective teacher for both those of us with medical training (and lifelong obsession with skincare) and the layman both. Also love the balance you demonstrate with staying on top of latest trends with ingredients and new products balanced with practical and clinical experience. I hope your following continues to grow! Thank you for all the time and effort you put in to this.
Thank you for the video. I’m a 33 year old recovering alcoholic.. 12 pack a day , then a few years later a fifth of vodka a day . That’s Around the time my nutrition really started getting bad. I’ve never really been a big meat eater, and when you’re drinking every single day your body really only wants alcohol. I am pretty positive I’ve been depleted in the vitamins for years. I currently have three months sober And There’s way too many more scary things to explain that my body is telling me and my situation can improve if I just put the bottle down. I have been watching a lot of videos about nutrition and vitamins. My biggest concern is drinking a gallon of water a day, large amounts of B vitamins , Magnesium, and Setting reminders to eat. Sometimes I have to force myself to eat. But because of the damage I’ve done I have to take my nutrition very seriously now. I’m pretty sure I’m going to make it. I’m pretty sure I’m going to be a success story. God bless
Good job, keep up the goos work!
@Sequoia Street
I want to congratulate you on being sober today. What a daily challenge!
Well done uv been though a lot luv from Scotland uk
If you are drinking a gallon of water a day, it is important that you also increase your salt intake.
Congrats on your sobriety! 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I’m proud of you! My mother is a recovering alcoholic, 26 year sober. I’m so proud of her. I read your story I don’t even know I do but I know that struggle. Just remember on days when it’s really tough, you are setting an example for someone else who is struggling, and that’s the best gift you can ever give. You’re stronger than you know! You are so worth all the good in the world go out and grab it
This is one of the most overlooked vitamin deficiencies in healthcare. Even when my mom was starting to have neurological symptoms, I had to ASK that B12 be checked. My immediate family members have Crohn's disease and Celiac disease along with some of the symptoms you mentioned. No one ever had their B12 checked. Nice to know it can cause permanent neurological damage. If only there were more conscientious doctors like you Dr Dray the world would be a better place. You really need to be your own advocate in healthcare.
Ulcerative Colitis for 23 years here and I previously didn’t think much about it. Ended up at a hematologist appointment due to dangerously high platelet levels and she put me on B12 injections and an iron infusion. Not too long ago I finished my MBA with a 4.0 GPA, was a full time student and full time employed, made time for some extracurricular organizations…. so I don’t think it affected me as much neurologically as it did physically, however I was fatigued and exhausted 24/7. Like for decades, it was so normal I usually failed to mention it at doctors appointments cause I got so used to it.
I was diagnosed with "ADVANCED DEMENTIA" and was hospitalized. I had a severe deficiency in B VITAMINS. I shuffled, couldn't hold anything, unable to talk, no memory at all, didn't understand what people were saying. It was scary.
@@samsmom400 sounds a lot like ASD doesn't it? For us, Thiamine was a miracle, started to talk. CRAZY... Doctors are missing this stuff and it is mind boggling!
@@timetoevolve5519 What is ASD?
@@samsmom400 autism
I literally never comment. But so refreshing to see black skin when you were showing symptoms. Thank you!
I was appreciating that, too! Thank you, Dr. Dray.
We see nothing more than black skin it's rare now to see white skin in media
That's helpful for blacks but it needs to be accompanied with photos of the skin of patients who are white.
Zorica Abiaduka,
I totally agree and I am
white skinned. Thank you so much for you comment. Blessings.
Exactly.
Wow! I'm type II diabetic. I'm on Metformin ER, just increased to 1000mg from 500. I also take heart burn medicine 1 per day as well. After I started the 1000ER I experienced fatigue, anxiety, lack of appetite, and digestion problems. After researching I went to my Pharmacist and asked for help obtaining B12 supplement. I now include 1000mg dose of B12 with my routine medications in the morning and have to say I have eliminated my negative issues I started to experience. Funny thing is my Primary Care Doc knowing my symptoms wanted to prescribe Prozac. I rejected it and with B12 I feel so lucky I did. I think I have been B12 deficient since starting Metformin back in 2013, as I figured getting older was causing some of my experiences. I THINK THERE SHOULD BE MORE PUBLIC EDUCATION ABOUT VITAMIN B12 AND SYMPTOMS THAT B12 CAN REMEDY, I FEEL PEOPLE ARE BEING MISDIAGNOSED, SPECIALLY USERS OF METFORMIN.
I had a severe B12 deficiency due to pernicious anemia, loss of intrinsic factor (also I have Sjogren's and celiac so, I lost ALL my hair two years ago. Injected B12 helped me so much, also treatment for the anemia and a bacterial infection that caused it. Thanks for this great informative video!
did you have h pylori?
Check your ferretin and vitamin d too
Thank you for doing this video. I felt horrible and my hands and feet were buzzing. I told my doctor, and I was severely B12 deficient. Supplements/injections - I'll all better now!
Buzzing ? Like a numb feeling ?
Not numb, but prickly/pins and needles@@mick5740
As a dietitian, I really enjoy these deficiency videos. Thank you.
I used to have occasional skin sensitivity where hot spots would flare up usually on my arms and sometimes torso. These hot spots are sporadic, one small pin point at a time, different locations, are not visible, but the skin would feel highly irritated to the lightest touch. Blood test concluded vitamin B12 deficiency and after taking supplements regularly I rarely experience them now.
Biggest take away is that neurological damage from B12 deficiency is irreversible. That is sobering.
not always.
I read that it is irreversible if it goes over 50%. @@Goldenretriever-k8m
😵💫
I am vegan and for a long time (8 years now ) For the past 4 years I have been having severe brain fog, severe fatigue and burning legs, also, and I was shedding hair. I went to 3 different doctors. My b12 was at 283 pg/ml. I wasn't "deficient" and those doctors said I was fine. I finally found a doctor to listened. He agreed that was a very low number and I was started on supplements. I am feeling much better. Get your blood work checked! Especially if you are vegan or vegetarian.
What b12 supplement do you take?
@@dee468 Natures Own 1000mcg daily
@@penni5859 thanks
Ferritin plays a roll too. Seems to partner with b12. Seems like if one is low both are. Some say of your b12 is less than 600, it is deficiency. It's all scary when we struggle and doctors don't pay attention to the suboptimal and low levels. I've spent 3 years going through this battle. It's awful
@@alisue4426 Everything else on my blood work was great.The doctor checked everything. Only B12 was low. I really thought it was MS or something horrible. My gait was weird. Standing in the shower was hard. It was horrible. But I am on the mend. :)
I’ve been vegan for 10 years, B12 deficiency has always been a concern for me but I’m guilty of not being great about taking my gaily vitamins. As soon as I started this video I ran for my b12 bottles thanks for the reminder!
Which brand do you use
I just did the same haha!
I got diagnosed in 2008 when I was 25 years and have been on shots every 3 months. When I get low I feel like I’m walking on a boat getting all wobbly. My arms live they’re own life and I have sores on my knuckles from bumping my hands into everything. instantly after being told something I forget it. When I got diagnosed I couldn’t walk or lift my arms. And the doc took one look at me and said I know what this is and you need b12 possibly a blood transfusion but I luckily didn’t need it.
Same! I was noticing my gait was different, and just standing in a line to pick up groceries was difficult. My balance was so weird.
Ok wow, maybe I am B12 deficient… Im always knocking myself on things and my arms hurt a lot and my legs feel sluggish. Plus I have the tongue thing for suuure!
@@CoRtNZ1 Legs being "heavy, shaky, jello legs" was a crazy symptom. Since I have been on B12 for 2 weeks my legs feel normal again. Plus my brain is not as foggy. I feel like I'm in the world again.
I can’t find the comment, but I wanted to also reiterate and thank you for showing how some of these conditions present on darker complexions. ❤
You had talked about symptoms of not having enough vitamin B12 in another video and I had made a comment that I had discoloration on my tongue and problems with short term memory. I already have peripheral neuropathy so that was nothing new.
Well, I saw a Specialist for my tongue and all the testing that was done only showed I was low on B12. My Neurologist sent me for a test and I will have that result soon. I ordered the Vitamin B12 Supplement today.
The metformin bit is very frustrating to me. I am taking it due to PCOS and none of doctors that prescribed it to me during last few years mentioned the risk of B12 deficiency. I find it very strange. I am vegan as well, so it is definitely of concern to me. It should be definitely reminded to patient and maybe suggested to supplement it.
I learned that the serum b12 test is not an accurate read of b12 deficiency, as it only measures the inactive form. To determine how much b12 you have/if low, is to measure “active b12” level which circulates in the blood for your brain and body - in addition to testing active b12, you should also request b12 binding, homocysteine, methylmalonic acid, homoransscolalamine. If not run through the lab, get private pay outside testing
My doctor recommended B12 supplements during my depression, to help with brain functions such as focus and memory. Don’t know if it’s a placebo effect, but I soon felt an improvement
I found the vast majority of my depression went away and I basically am myself again since I've raised my ferritin, vitamin D, and b12. Nutrition is seriously ignored too much.
What product did u use?
@@alisue4426 can you please share how you did this and what supplements
My mom had pernicious anemia while pregnant with my brother. He was also anemic as a child. I suffer as well. I find B12 shots really help me.
Thanks for sharing!
@@DrDrayzday Most Welcome. Looking forward to your next video.
@@LorraineCareyAuthor do you mind sharing what kind of B12 shot you are getting?
@@allison471 It was from the doctor's office- medical grade I'm sure.
I was just diagnosed with pernicious anemia. My ANA levels have been abnormal since my breast cancer surgery. So thankful I have wonderful Drs that are thorough. Love listening to you!
Thank you for posting this. I have obtained the information through my GP, results from blood tests found out that I am low in B12. I now have to have 3 injections for 2 weeks followed by a further blood test. Your information seems spot on and could explain a lot of my past experiences, which would have not necessarily been picked up earlier.
Edited to state that I am not vegan.
I so wish I had had you around a few years ago. Was prescribed Metformin for a gyne issue a few years ago. experienced severe gastric pain and pins and needles in the soles of my feet within a could of months. asked my docs if the cause could be Metformin, was told "Nope, keep at it" and given a gastric referral instead. Pain worsened, total loss of appetite, feet issues worsened. Asked the gastroenterilogist if it could all be related to Metformin, told "Nope. Keep taking Metformin. Take Omeprazole for the gastric pain. And let's do some invasive tests!" Ended up being admitted to hospital for severe anemia, had multiple blood transfusions. Asked Head of Gyne if gastric pain and feet numbness could be due to Metformin and that Omeprazole was doing nothing for the gastric pain, told "Nope. Double your Metformin." I ignored him, stopped the Metformin and asked for a neurology referral for my feet as they were now so bad that I had no sensation. Neurologist diagnosed me with peripheral neuropathy and said "You should have come to see me sooner". Saw a new Gyne who confirmed it was down to Metformin. Got B12 shots but stuck with permanent nerve damage.😢
Sue the bastards!
Really appreciate your deep dive into B12. As a 63 year old lady I know the negative effects low B12 can have. I get an intramuscular injection monthly.
What kind of b12 do you get injected? I heard there is one that has cyanide?
I take drops and liver pills which help my poor absorption due to intestinal dysbiosis that is slowly healing.
My dr took it awzy, said i dont need it, now i get a zipping sensation in my lower face. Guess i need an intense blood test!
@ForgiveAndLove09 my doctor injects hydroxocobalimin for my b12 deficiency. My level was 218 but that was blood test results from a month prior to them being reviewed. Luckily I had a very insightful doctor who seemed to know quite a lot about b12 deficiency and stuck me on injections. I've had 3 so far and still feel horrible lol. I'm determined to get another test done because I still don't feel like they checked everything.
As a long time vegetarian, this is often on my mind, with supplements and vitamin
& food choice. I’d love a vitamin series! Thank you , happy new year💐
Yes, I'm vegan and I was afraid she wouldn't mention vegans as there are quite a few vegans who don't take supplements but rely on natural plantbased sources of B12, but there aren't any reliable plantbased sources of B12. No. There isn't. Take your B12 supplements, vegans!
supplements dont work their is no bioavailability
If you require a vitamin pill, you're not eating right. Think about it. Were our ancestors over the past hundreds of thousands of years all suffering from B12 and iron deficiencies because they didn't have the necessary vitamin pills?
PERFECT TIMING , I think this is what I am experiencing right now
I’ve had ulcerative colitis since my late twenties, and I’m 67 now. My doctor supplemented me with folic acid and B12, since excess iron can cause bacteria to overgrow in the colon.
It’s so important that there is a doctor who has vegan diet to tell ppl that vegans and vegetarians NEED B12 supplements or at least get regular check-ups. I have vegan friends who take offence when I told them they should get it checked(I am not vegan nor vegetarian myself) they think I am telling them that veganism and vegetarianism are not good…so thank you! I hope those friends of mine would listen now after watching your video
Yes, I have pernicious anemia caused by an autoimmune disease and I have probably had it was several years! They think it was caused by decades IBS. It got so bad that I ended up having demyelination of my spinal cord! There were signs for years but none of my primary care doctors tested my B12 levels! It took me having to go to a neurologist to get ky levels checked! He actually called me letting me know that my B12 level was 57 and didn’t know how I was doing life day to day! I now have to give myself inter muscular B12 shots every 3 weeks. The demyelination resolved thank God but I still have some nerve issues.
Anyone who has had gastric bypass surgery where they staple most of your stomach to leave you with a small pouch that functions as your entire stomach. Then they attach (bypass) the small intestine to your new stomach pouch. This effects your absorption of vitamins and minerals but also that intrinsic factor effects the B12. I had this procedure back in 2003 and I developed a major iron and B12 deficiency to where I was majorly anemic as a direct result of the stomach surgery. My hemoglobin was dangerously low around 6 and I had to receive iron infusions and blood products before this caused multi organ failure including the heart. I remember not being able to get up and walk or exert myself in any way without getting dizzy and very short of breath. So this is another side effects or health issue from low B12.
Thank you, I have been diagnosed with B12 deficiency a few years ago and was put on B12 supplement for the next few years. It is good to know the why and the how because some doctors are not very good at giving the explanations that I was seeking.
Thanks Doc for great content! I am one of the people with a genetic functional B12 deficiency. I'll need shots or topical for life. I have had some serious neurological issues over the years and doctors diagnosed me with MS. Except it isn't, it's lack of B12 getting into my cells. So I am posting this for anyone having neurological symptoms. Adamantly request additional testing in order to rule out B12 issues. Serum B12 levels are not reliable if you are presenting with neurological symptoms. I figured this out myself with no help from my GP or Neurologist, despite having high serum levels without supplementation. PubMed has a bunch of research about Functional B12 Deficiency yet most doctors are clueless. Thank goodness that I am science minded and did my own research. Ask for testing ruling out pernicious anemia (which includes several tests), also folate, homocysteine and MMA levels in addition to B12 serum. Pay for it out of pocket if necessary. MS is not the only cause of demilenation contrary to what most neurologist will tell you. Lyme disease is another common condition that can mimic many autoimmune conditions. You are your own best advocate.
Hi, can you share what b12 it is you are taking? Do you get this via pharmacy? I too have b12 def
@@samsmom400 Oh my! Was it caught before permanent damage was done? I hope you are doing better now.
@@crivera313 in the US you need a prescription now for shots. There are some topicals to be found. Either shots or transdermal are the best forms if you have a deficiency that is causing noticeable symptoms.
Small addition to this wonderful comment: even for people without functional B12 deficiency, serum B12 is not reliable. Always ask for your Holo-TC to be checked - if it's too low, you are deficient in B12, even if your serum levels are still considered normal.
@@notmyname1883 what Holo TC test ?
Hi! I have a question : how can we use vitamin B12 supplement without having pimples for acne prone skin? I understand that vitamin B12 is a trigger to breakouts if we have too much of it. So, I wonder, with what dosage should we begin? Thanks Dr Dray!
Same here I can’t take vitamin B12 or and vitamin Bs my skin goes crazy with breakouts and I’m 68 years old ,,
Am not a Dr, this is just from personal experience, 500 mcg per day to address deficiency (in morning), once a deficiency is addressed and you start noticing a lot of extra energy you can go down to 50-150 mcg daily long term (if you have medications depleting your B12 you may need more, this is just for otherwise healthy people). A lot of people swear by a weekly injection or excessive one off dose, don't recommend it, it will make you hyper on the day of taking it and interfere with sleep and by the time you are ready for another big dose you are tired again (can turn your moods / energy levels into a rollercoaster).
Probably one of the least understood and still under diagnosed deficiency were facing today. Wife thought she we was losing it and having multiple neurological issues several years ago. Was literally in a wheel chair for a few weeks. General Practitioner, Nuerologist, and several other specialists misdiagnosed her issue. Finally her rheumatologist suggested the old fashioned way of checking her blood for b12 which takes several weeks. The modern is almost instant. It will determine b12 levels but can't tell if your body will actually absorb it (intrinsic factor). All of the doctors ruled a b12 deficiency out since her blood levels showed decent levels. Within a few days of receiving the b12 injections she started recovering. Fortunately her Rheumatologist started treating her before he received the results. Both the neurologist and blood doctor stated that they weren't aware of the intrinsic factor and b12. It still kills people every day in our country according to the Rheumatologist.
Just got diagnosed with B12 deficiency. I’ve been a vegetarian for 8 years, and don’t like milk. Receiving shots now, and will begin supplements. I was extremely tired and had trouble getting over an infection.
If i could get a dollar for every vegetarians story that has destroyed their health when they opted for veganism i would be a millionaire today.
Loving these vitamin/mineral vids! I had no idea B12-deficiency could cause permanent neurological damage. Scary! Also, I'm one of those people who needs to be careful with how much B12 I consume in supplement form or else I'll get cystic acne around my chin and jawline. Ugh.
I was diagnosed with "ADVANCED DEMENTIA" and was hospitalized. I had a severe deficiency in B VITAMINS. I shuffled, couldn't hold anything, unable to talk, no memory at all, didn't understand what people were saying. It was scary.
See my reply to Curl Girl about what happened to my aunt in January it was scary and devastating to think if only she had gone for yearly blood tests she would still be alive today
this explains even more why my GP insisted that i take a B12 supplement when he put me on Metformin for my diabetes. i've been taking a B Complex supplement 2-3 times a week and i've noticed some huge changes (probably also due to both getting the diabetes under control, as well as taking iron supplement for low iron/anemia) also been taking magnesium and a vitamin D supplement (another important vitamin)
Having vitamin b12 deficiency and horrible thought I was dying or getting paranoid a lot of stomach pain and I didn't feel like eating , I advise you to always do vitamin b12 tests !!!!
I lost 90 pounds and ate very little b12 rich foods during that time. I developed dermatitis for the first time ever in my scalp and face, hair loss, weird episodes of tongue inflammation, muscle pains, neuropathy and eventually severe vertigo and debilitating ringing in my ears. I saw so many doctors during that time but it was not until I saw a functional medicine nurse practitioner that I found out my B12 was low. Now that I am starting to get closer to optimal levels so many symptoms have calmed way way down.
Could you please explain what you mean with debilitating ringing in your ears?
You probably need more than B12, you sound like you have whole bunch of deficiencies going on. Did you have a bloodwork done to see where else you might be deficient? How about your D3, Iron, etc. it’s never just one vitamin.
@@Greenfuture4alltinnitus most likely
For me, it showed up in an annual exam that my white blood count was extremely low. Because of my history we didn’t think it was the C word but I was moving so the specialist ran every test he would normally run over time. It was B12 and I got a serious of shots. One sign I didn’t realize was a sign of deficiency is that I was having tingling in my fingers.
That was one of my main signs too. I just found out that I am extremely B12 deficient and just started taking supplements
@@reneeturcottecicigoi9435 I have been taking supplements for 6 years and always test fine now. It’s important. I’m not qualified (not a doctor) to give advice but I have read this can lead to nerve damage and possibly mental function decline if not treated.
And the tingling went away once I got my levels up.
My mom had this issue and my daughter does too. I am not sure if there’s a genetic component or just a common issue.
Astragalus helps to boost white blood cell count
@Ralph and Leo’s Mom how long did it take for your levels to go up, 😊 thanks
@@kbm124 I had 4-5 shots if I remember correctly. One a week until the levels went up and I have kept them up since with supplements. It was over 6 years ago now.
Hello Dr. Dray, thank you for all this information. Do you have any recommendations for B 12 supplements? Thanks so much!
I noticed before I started taking vitamin b12 supplements my skin felt so dry and tight and looked red I noticed the difference immediately after I started taking them. Now I don’t get sun bunt every time I step outside as well it’s crazy how important that vitamin is
Interesting. I had no idea proton pump inhibitors like Omeprazole cause B12 deficiency. Well, looks like it’s time to head out to the pharmacy.
A painful ‘pins and needles’ sensation in your hands is another symptom of B-12 deficiency. I had all of these you’ve mentioned and more. I wish I never even heard of vegetarianism as I suffered for years with low energy and other problems due to a severe B-12 deficiency. …… …… It would have been helpful if you’d explained the difference between the different types of B-12, the synthetic Cyancobalamin and the natural Methylcobalamin form which is easier for your body to utilize. Also, if a person is hypochloridic (low stomach acid) or lacks the proper gut flora they’ll have difficulty absorbing B-12. You did mention intrinsic factor which is good. You could have mentioned that if a person has problems absorbing B-12 they can take a sublingual (under the tongue) form of B-12, preferably Methylcobalamin. Read the labels! Most forms of B-12 sold are the synthetic Cyancobalamin form. All food that are ‘fortified’ with B-12 are the super cheap synthetic Cyancobalain form of the vitamin. A great book to read on this subject is titled ‘Could it be B12?’ Read the reviews on Amazon.
I got my doctor to check my blood levels after being super fatigued and feeling weak. I had a B12 level of 111pg/ml so glad I went. Instantly went on b12 shots. No clue on the cause still. Very informational video!
Did you get better?
@@RogAn-m9imy health isn't perfect but it's lots better :)
I had a B12 deficiency for no apparent reason and no symptoms. I’d highly recommend having your B12 levels checked, or supplement. Since it’s water soluble, you can’t really overdose.
Same. Mine appears to be some kind of GI uptake issue. I was negative for pernicious anemia.
Same. Mine came out of the blue. It's crazy how it affects you!
Same here- until my eye doctor sent me for some very specific bloodwork. Turns out that I have a genetic mutation , MTHFR for short, which prevents absorption of some vitamin B nutrients. Waiting to see my GP for some advice.
@@gerilynnreilly2672 How did your eye doctor know?
Gerilynn Reilly I have a hunch I have it too. How did you get on with your diagnoses and also can you remember which b vits aren’t absorbed so well with that condition?
I’m a grad student learning about these diseases and processes and I got so excited that this all connected. We recently learned about b12 processes and I was shocked that omeprazole affects b12. My physician unfortunately did not tell me that after the last few visits and I discovered it on my own. I’m more conscious about eating foods with b12 as I have experiences the effects of b12 deficiency. Great video Dr. Dray!
Awesome topic Dr. Dray. Love these discussions about how nutrition affects the skin as well as other parts of the body. 😊 Happy Thursday!
Thank you 😊
B12 deficiency is no joke. I took a daily dose every few days plus fortified foods and I had horrible symptoms like breathing problems, joint pain, extreme fatigue, excema on my hands, my immune system went downhill. I honestly thought I was dying. Then one day I just thought to take a higher dose for a change (500micrograms) and then 1g the next day and all my symptoms just disappeared.
Try nutritional yeast
Wow, my husband has been on Metformin for a long long time and has neuropathy. He sometimes gets brain fog too so I am going ask his doc about adding a B12 supplement to his regimen. He has been prescribed high dose vitamin D because he is very deficient in that; maybe a B12 supplement is needed as well. Thank you so much for that info!!
Hope this info helps
Same here. 😐
B12 deficiency usually causes neuropathy
thank u dr dray for this!!! Ive had b12 deficiency for almost 4 years now bc my gut doesnt absorb it properly and when i found out my doctor told me my levels were only 8 (in whatever unit it’s measured in) and i needed to take the injections or else i was at risk for becoming permanently paralyzed. I ignored it for too long bc i thought i was just being a lazy teenager sleeping the whole day but when i started blacking out and feeling numb in my legs i forced my mother to take me to the doctor. And even my doctor asked me how am i still able to walk after he got my blood test results bc 8 is critically low. I never knew it existed before then and everyone i explained it to never knew it existed either and STILL people don’t understand how serious it is😭 Also b12 EFFICIENCY is a thing too and is just as dangerous!! Also i was vegan for a month in the same year i found out which didnt help bc i never knew i needed to take a b12 supplement, so please do if u are vegan!!! Also i wont lie like the nurses but the injection hurts like HELL bc its in the butt and they keep the vitamin B complex injection (the one i take is called neurobion) in the fridge so it stings as it flows down ur leg and makes ur butt cramp but just take it anyways and try to relax bc its better than paralysis, u got this!!! okay thanks for reading this! Hope this comment can help someone :) 🌸❤️
Thank yu
I AL A diabetic on Metformin and have been on it for about 30 years. Whenever I asked about whether taking Metformin might be at issue for my hair loss, the GYN didn’t know.
But after having a CBC a few weeks ago and being told I needed to take iron, I can’t remember how I picked up on taking liquid B12 also. But I started taking them together, about 1-1/2 months ago.
My hair has been thinning since my 20s and it really started getting bad, in my early 40s. I’m now in my late 50s. I noticed a couple of weeks ago, that I might be regrowing hair. But, you know how it goes. That you think your mind is playing tricks, unless and until you start seeing some significant coverage. So, I’m 1-1/2 months in and, I’m pretty sure I’m seeing growth.
I don’t get too excited however. I feel some follicles or areas may be entirely dead, although it may be too soon to tell. However, it’s possible that, if it continues growing like it is, that I’m 6 months to a year, I “may” have full coverage.
And, yes, the combo of b12 and iron has made me feel great, although I know it was probably the initial dose of B12 that made me feel great, the day following the first day I started taking it.
Just wish I’d known this, all these years. What problems I could’ve avoided.
I am really glad I found your page. I have been binge watching since. This video was informative. I suffer from vitamin D and iron deficiency. I also have the hyperpigmentation on the knuckles. Originally I thought it must be related to the other two. Now I will say that it could still be relayed to winter because it does seem to get better when the warmer weather hits. Also this only started in the last two years.
What I wanted to ask is if you could do a video on how to get a full vitamin work up, what questions to ask, how to get insurance to pay for it, and if not would you recommend at home test.
Although my doctor do understand the adverse reactions of a low B12 level, she didn't seem to correlate my Veganism with a B12 problem. I insisted that my B12 be checked and I'm glad I did because my level was 4 (four)!!!!! I knew something was wrong with me. I was having severe muscle aches especially in my lower back. I couldn't concentrate at times, and my hair was falling out in massive amounts. So much was going on. My doctor put me on B12 immediately!! She understood the urgency. My levels went up so well that they had to tell me to stop because it was like 3,000 or something. So now I get a check every 3 months and for right now I'm taking no supplements because it's too high. To be honest my doctor had me on one pill a week and the reason it's so high is because I also wouldn't bought an over counter and was taking it daily along with my one pill a week. Which was ridiculously too much.
Madam your a genius, what you have described are many of the symptoms I am experiencing, initially thought it was due to taking the covid vaccine but having listened to this piece you have given me a new path to explore. Thank you…
This was super informative, and I would know because I've done an extremely deep dive due to my own recent very low b12 levels. B12 is used everywhere in your body but is unique in a couple ways, one is that goes no where in your body except through your digestive tract unescorted. To be absorbed it must be helped through your intestines mostly by intrinsic factor that comes from your stomach and a some bound with haptocorrin from your saliva. There's a bit more to it but the binding is a limiting factor so taking large amounts if you are deficient is unlikely to be excreted in urine as your body can only absorb what is bound. Your body also normally stores large amounts of excess b12 bound to haptocorrin(holocobalamin) in your blood stream and your kidneys reabsorb b12 and very little is normally excreted in the urine. It would take 2-10 years to become deficient using these stores. My point is that the excess in supplements just keeps on going through and is excreted in your stool rather than your urine.
Great video! 😊 What are your thoughts about cyanocobalamin vs methylcobalamin vs Hydroxycobalamin? Some people say that cyanocobalamin is no good. I get B12 shots and have a choice between cyanocobalamin and hydroxycobalamin and the latter really stings and hurts! But if it's better maybe it's worth it?
Cyanocobalamin is the most synthetic form. I use methylcobalamin because it’s easier for my body to absorb
My niece just had a baby 7 mths ago - and had been depressed, down, lethargic etc......She went to the doctor and got prescribed some anti-depression medication but also had some bloodwork - which showed she had almost no Vit B12, so now is having infusions.
I've been having confusion and memory loss for years. I'm in my twenties. I couldn't get a doctor's appointment for the longest time, but when I did, my blood work came back as "extremely extremely low" on B12 and I was prescribed B12 injections twice a week.
there's a long history of dementia in my family and I'm being told that my cognitive decline over the last few years might be caused by this (every doctor before told me to just stop stressing)
should I be getting some sort of MRI done or something to see the effects on my brain? My family doctor says they've never tested my B12 before, so they don't know how long I've been deficient.
Will my cognitive abilities come back once my B12 levels are normal? To give you an example of how bad it's gotten-- I've put my clothes on the curb and had them picked up as trash instead of the actual trash. I've forgotten entire long conversations, conversations where people said I'd changed their life due to what I said, days after they've occurred. I'm losing things all around my apartment and finding things in odd places with no idea how they got there. For the longest time, my family shrugged off my concerns and said "what is a doctor going to do? Give you memory pills? There's nothing they can do."
I'm really scared. I don't remember the last time I felt like myself and I really just want my memory back. When I was a kid, people said I had the best memory in the family. Now I feel like an old woman.
Oh bless you , so glad you’ve had the help you need. It’s so awful when family don’t realise how bad you feel and are not helping you . I have a condition which most people have not heard of and so I know what it feels like too be misunderstood I’m sure you will feel better soon you are young but ask your doctor for reassurance. Sending you a big hug.
How are you doing now! Stay strong❤
I was diagnosed with "ADVANCED DEMENTIA" and was hospitalized. I had a severe deficiency in B VITAMINS. I shuffled, couldn't hold anything, unable to talk, no memory at all, didn't understand what people were saying. It was scary. I was literally a shell of a person. I just sat and never moved. I was also told I was stressed, but stress depletes this vitamin. No, DO NOT GET AN MRI, IT'S USELESS. Been there, done that. It will more than likely show that you're "normal". Just start taking complex B vitamins. Or go to your doctor and ask for a weekly injection, it's covered by insurance.
How do you feel now?
🙏 so hope you are doing better now.💕
I would like to see more programs like this giving us an idea what is good for someone who's not good for us these are essential for our human existence to continue going iPhone 1 and 76 years old I keep working because my health has been pretty good so far but I want to continue because the cost to live is so high and I make very little income from my retirement so I have to continue working long as possible please keep up with these programs there imperative to have
I'm really enjoying these vitamin deficiency videos. You're teaching me a lot! Thanks, Dr Dray!! Happy Thursday!! I hope you have a lovely evening. 💕
I'm happy to see this video I have most all symptoms
Dr. Dray, as a vegan and acne prone, I am a little bit nervous to take b12 supplements. How much is too much before it can cause acne break outs? Thanks!
I'm acne prone too and I've been taken B12 supplements for 12 years. Not any increase of pimples at all. And all my vegan friends who take supplements don't have acne or more acne 🙏🏼
When I take b12 for a couple weeks the one thing I notice is that my hand writing improves and I don't feel weakness in my arm or shake when holding a pen. The nerves in my arms get better.
The doctors I went to kept on giving me painkillers and after one time I just gave up on doctors. Yes, sounds bad but I am educated enough to know what my body does not need. So, I started studying about nutrition and in less than 2 days I knew I had a B-12 deficiency. I am vegetarian and my symptoms were straight: Neuropathy, depression, forgetfulness (I genuinely began to think I have dementia, I would forget while speaking) (Also anemia, but I knew that was bc of iron deficiency). Some days I was even psychotic. And my deficiency wasn't even serious. I had no visible symptoms (like the glossy tongue) apart from frizzy hair (to tell you, they were not always like that). I chose a new doc and fortunately he prescribed like 7 vitamins and minerals (E acetate, C, D3, Folate, Cobalamine. Iron...) and my nerve pain is almost gone (at least it's managed). Some days my psychosis made me think I might be developing schizophrenia :D. Why am I making a comment about this on the internet? GET YOUR VITAMIN B-12 LEVELS CHECKED (Didn' t mean to yell just aggressively emphasize :P) Not only B-12, but all vitamins and minerals, please.
I was diagnosed with "ADVANCED DEMENTIA" and was hospitalized. I had a severe deficiency in B VITAMINS. I shuffled, couldn't hold anything, unable to talk, no memory at all, didn't understand what people were saying. It was scary.
@@samsmom400 Oh... That sounds really scary. I am so relieved I got to treat mine sooner. Hope you are doing much, much better now!
9
Best absorbed B12 is methyl cobalamin other form is derived from petroleum and not readily absorbed ALSO place under tongue (sublingual) to help with absorption
here for the vitamin series 💜😊
Thanks for watching
👱♀️❤
Can you comment on the potential cancer risk for supplementing B vitamins? I just watched your HUM ceramide vitamin review and you mentioned the cancer risk, and this video you say they are safe. Can you explain what changed your mind? I can’t decide if I should toss out the vitamins I have or not.
I always learn so much from you, Dr Dray! Thank you for all you do!
Thank you Andrea! Again, a great content and something that I have been questioning recently. Your video answered all my questions. It’s as if you read our minds and come up with a topic that is so informative and at the right time. Have a great day!
Is there a B12 supplement, or vitamin D supplement, or a good multivitamin that you recommend?
You look great today! Colorful! Love the necklace. VERY professional and fresh!!
I had b12 deficiency. Was prescribed injections . After 4 th injection my skin went crazy. Never had acne and here I was at 40 covered with pimples. I wish I was told about this side effect
Thank you, Dr. Dray, for your always informative videos. I take vitamin B12 but I have a vitamin D problem and have to take that also weekly.
Thanks for watching
@@DrDrayzday Forgot to say Happy New Year to you and am may your good work continues for the year. Always learning from you.
Hey Dr Dray! Would love a video dedicated to tobacco smoking and the skin ❤️ Thank you so much! Love from Melbourne, Australia
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Dr,which. One should I taking,thanks
I have Crohn's disease and my first (of six) surgery was an ileial resection about 15 years ago. I have chronically low B12, even with bi-weekly injections, because of poor absorption. I love this new series because I do have some skin struggles and I've been wondering if some of my malnutrition and inflammation issues might be causing them. These are also good tips for me to watch for that might alert me to low vitamin levels before my regular blood work is done. I've definitely experienced a few of these symptoms! Thank you for doing this and sharing your knowledge!
Same here! Be strong girl, this disease suck ♥️ sending lots of positive vibes to you
Use a sublingual B-12 it works great for folks with bowel surgery or chrons .
@@leelastoma5809 Resection is the term. I have both, a double resection and Crohn's.
@@leelastoma5809 Wormwood, reishi mushrooms, apple cider vinegar, folate pills and irons pills as well as subluminal B12 are what I take. For me shortness of breath is the main symptom of an iron or B12 deficiency.
Great video. B12 is so important. I wish GPs would recommend it more to help with mental health & cognitive health.
Is "high-dose oral" B12 really effective for pernicious anemia? If you can't absorb dietary B12, due to lack of intrinsic factor, would an oral supplement be absorbed?
I was diagnosed with pernicious anemia during a bout of sepsis a few years ago, and have injections of cyanocobalamin every two weeks since then, but at first, while we were trying to find the right balance, I was also using sublingual B12 supplements. My understanding was - and is - that oral supplements would be useless, since I wouldn't be able to absorb them.
Also, for anyone unfamiliar, one potential symptom of pernicious anemia is depression. I had had treatment-resistant depression for years, and guess what? About 36 hours after an injection, the depression resolved.
Thanks for this video, Dr Dray.
My doctor prescribed Metformin to me for type 2 Diabetes and never mentioned any side effects at all.
Dr. Dray, I hope you see this comment. I have two questions about anti aging in your 20s that you mentioned in one of your videos. Some people say to avoid Vaseline because it’s drying. Is it drying for some people and it’s not for everybody, or is this not true? Secondly, I know that with aging they say to avoid alcohol but I know red wine has antioxidant factors. Will drinking red wine age you?
she mentions a few times that vaseline is not bad for you as it keeps the moisture in,she has a video on vaseline
Awesome info! Thank so much! I have lupus and some of these things you mentioned I automatically tagged it is lupus. I will discuss with my doc.
As someone that physically has " Pernicious Anemia" I can fully relate with not only the information she's giving but my whole lifestyle and what I've had to prevent in my nutrition. Dermatologists are in my experience the most honest Doctors and tend to notice early signs due to their skin expertise great video 😃🌸😃
To my recollection, the research shows acne breakouts are only associated with intramuscular b12 (not oral). A significant percentage of non-vegetarians are also deficient in the US, so more people may benefit from supplementation than you’d think (because meat eaters only get b12 if the animals they ate had adequate amounts, and not all factory farmed animals are supplemented).
A blood test recently picked up my 82 yr. old husband has B12 deficiency & he has injections
monthly. I think a lot of older people have it & are not aware.
My mums too, how is he now, did hebget energy back and does he sleep well?
I was diagnosed with "ADVANCED DEMENTIA" in 2014 (I was in my 50's) and was hospitalized. I had a severe deficiency in B VITAMINS. I shuffled, couldn't hold anything, unable to talk, no memory at all, didn't understand what people were saying. It was scary. Like you, as soon as I started talking, I couldn't remember what I was saying, so I quit. I am WAAAAAAY better!!
I have been receiving b12. since diagnosed with ms. It is the only drug management for that condition. I started at age 22. After 3 healthy births I reached the age of 77. I live with other health issues but still have quality life. Enjoyed your video. For many years doctors laughed at my med solution but a recent exam by a neurologist (wow) comment “ you know there’s nothing I can do for you”. I felt luck to have been given this by a g.p. I worked with. He had been involved in wwIi and found b12 very beneficial.
I was looking up the problem with having low white blood cells earlier. I did read B12 helps. I've always had low iron but everything else was showing fine in my blood results.
Iron is everything. Getting ferritin levels up has bascially changed my life. 💛
@@alisue4426 To what level?
@Amschel Bauer I've maintained around 140 since fall of 2020.
It took almost a year at that level to see most of my symptoms gone most of the time. My body is sensitive. When it drops a little, I can tell, even if it's still "high".
I have gastroparesis due to vagus nerve damage after a fundoplication. I developed severe anemia due to nutrients not being absorbed because my stomach wouldn't empty. I was on B12 inj for a year and had iron infusions. It is nothing to play with. Vitamin deficiencies are not joke
I had this after I gave birth/breast fed my daughter. I was having SO many difficulties. I was having neurological problems, and warm spots in my legs. I went into the ER for what I thought was a blot clot, and they checked my B12. My B12 was 2 😵💫😵💫 i did a series of injections and was able to get it back up to 500! Super easy to fix. I take a supplement now daily.
What were your symptoms. Thanks
Did you twitch by any chance ?
I have a 262 number of B12. Is that a deficiency? Please let me know. Thanks
This was super helpful thank you! Came in perfect time for me as I am experiencing many of these deficiency symptoms. Thanks!
whats brand of vitamin b do you recomend that is best? can you tell us a few brands and mg to take daily?
Hi everyone, can anyone recommend me the best form of B12 supplement, please?! Which one absorb better? Iam lost.
Methylcobalamin.Adenosylcobalamin Cyanocobalamin, Hydroxocobalamin?
Thank you!!!
Me too. Nobody answered you. Sad. I think methyl
Hello Dr. Dray may I ask a little irrelevant question?- I have been using retinol for 10 years. Starting from 25 and now I 'm 35 and using acnelyse which has 0.1 Tretinoin consistently. Surely my skin is not getting flaky or red anymore, I think it gets used to retinol. Does it mean it doesn't work anymore? Thank you.
Wow Dr Dray, yes to the diversity in the illustrative pictures 🙌🏾
Is that why some dark skin people get vitiligo? (Not just because of B12) but is it part of it?