The skinny on B12 injections

Increase your metabolism! Want more energy? Lose weight quicker! These are all headlines you will find when researching vitamin injections. Even in my nutrition class, my professor encouraged B Vitamin injections. I decided to do my own experiment.

B12, also known as Cobalamin is a water-soluble B complex vitamin found naturally in animal products. A few good sources are eggs, dairy, beef, fish and pork. B complex vitamins help the body convert carbohydrates into glucose. Glucose is what the body uses for energy. B vitamins also play an important role in the metabolism of fats and proteins. Not only that, but it aids in DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation, as well as keeping the nervous system functioning properly. I can list on and on about the benefits of B12, the point is that B12 is extremely important to keeping our bodies healthy. That being said, our bodies get enough B12 through our diet. Even as a vegetarian you can buy foods that are fortified with B12. The absorption level is due to the bioavailability (usually administered intravenously at 100%) , and because b12 is water-soluble, the body does not store it-excess B12 with be excreted through urination. Unless you have a  b12 deficiency, oral vitamins and or a diet rich in b12 will suffice. The body only needs so much and will just get rid of any B12 it does not use. Birth control, anti-seizure medications and antibiotics can decrease B12 levels in the body. People with Anemia, gastrointestinal disorders, older adults or pregnant or lactating women are at risk of deficiencies. So if you have symptoms of fatigue, shortness of breath, nervousness, numbness, or tingling in your fingers and toes getting

tested for deficiency is a good first step. Otherwise there is no substantial evidence to support the role of B12 in weight loss or reducing cardiovascular disease.

I went in to get my first shot, the nurse told me that this was better than a vitamin pill because it would restore me on a metabolic level. In my research I did find that B12 injections can bypass some of the potential absorption barriers. She also told me I would feel a difference in my body within three hours. I felt that was a pretty bold assertion, but I was excited to see what would happen. Would I suddenly kill it at the gym? Would I be laser focused at work? I didn’t feel a difference that day.. . I had bought a package of six, and did one on Monday and one on Friday of every week. I was also going to the gym at least four times a week and eating better. So, all in all I did feel great. I cannot attribute it to anything, but having a placebo effect. It did motivate me to be healthier in my all around day-to-day life. It did make me feel like I was being a healthier person. For some reason that inspired me to make better choices throughout my week. And just for that reason, I can’t say I wouldnt do it again.

References; Ray Benaroch, M.D, Loyola University Health System, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services

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