Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/404125
NOVEMBER / DECEMBER 2014 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | 25 • You are over 50 and suffer from decreased stomach acid production, a common symptom of aging • You have a history of radiation treatment for digestive tract, breast, or pelvic cancers • You take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), oral birth control pills, or metformin that deplete B vitamins • You are a vegetarian or vegan • You have a genetic, metabolic, or autoimmune issue that interferes with B-12 absorption • You consume alcohol, even in moderate amounts If anything on this list pertains to you, there is a strong possibility you're not getting optimal amounts of B-12. Such a deficiency can develop over time and cause far-reaching and sometimes irreversible illness. Symptoms may include mania, psychosis, dementia, mood imbalances, abnormal skin sensations such as numbness or tingling, memory loss, depression, shortness of breath, mouth sores, and infertility. Vitamin B-12 deficiency can be such a great mimicker of other conditions and so overlooked that the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has alerted physicians to screen for B-12 deficiency. Keep in mind that even when blood levels are considered to be in the normal range, a person with suboptimal B-12 levels can experience fatigue, hormonal imbalances, poor immune function, unhealthy hair and nails, osteoporosis, incontinence, and sleeplessness, to name a few possible symptoms. SUPPLEMENTAL B-12 Many common conditions may be helped by B-12 supplementation: Stress: Stressors come in several forms—mental, emotional, physical and environmental. When you're under stress, it's common to use up your B vitamins. Your digestive function also can be compromised, leading to less efficient absorption of this critical nutrient. It's as though your system goes into overdrive and your diet can't keep up with your body's B-12 demand. Fatigue: How often do you feel tired? It's common for people to feel rundown and to consume caffeine as a pick-me-up in the morning and to help manage energy levels throughout the day. Although a number of things could be causing your fatigue, B-12 injections can help boost energy levels in the short and long term. Mood: Research suggests that those with depression may suffer from low levels of vitamin B-12 and other B vitamins. Supplementing with B-12 can have a positive effect on mood. B-12 plays a role in producing neurochemicals for proper brain function. In addition, those who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) may also benefit from B-12 supplementation. Osteoporosis: Osteoporosis can lead to thinning of bones and put sufferers at risk for debilitating fractures. There is a strong link between low levels of B-12 and osteoporosis. B-12 is crucial to the function of bone-forming cells, called osteoblasts. Studies have shown that those with the lowest levels of B-12 have more rapid bone loss than those with higher levels. Heart disease: B-12 regulates homocysteine, a nonprotein amino acid correlated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, Alzheimer's, and dementia. Aging: Seniors can suffer from a variety of symptoms and often blame aging as the reason. As one ages, however, there is an increased risk of B-12 deficiency. It's important to investigate and treat this as low levels can lead to irreversible neurological damage. Here's the good news: B-12 supplementation is simple. The vitamin can be taken orally, sublingually, or by injection. Injections deliver the nutrient to your tissues most effectively, bypassing absorption issues. The shots are quick, relatively painless, and safe and effective for most people. Dr. Nina Paroo helps WAC members realize their physical, emotional, mental and spiritual potential. Contact her through the Wellness Center: 206.839.4780. Should you get B-12 shots? A complimentary conversation with the doctor will help you decide if B-12 is right for you. Contact the Wellness Center: 206.839.4780. " Vitamin B-12 plays a crucial role in the metabolism of every single one of our cells …[It] can't be made by our bodies. It must be obtained from our diet or other means."