She Strengthens

The Hidden Dangers of Vitamin B12 Supplements

Vitamin B12 is essential for our bodies, playing a crucial role in DNA production, red blood cell formation, and brain health. However, taking too much of this vitamin can lead to unforeseen consequences. While it’s necessary for our overall wellness, excessive intake can stir up trouble.

The Risks of Excessive B12 Intake

B12 supplements come in various forms, including capsules, tablets, soft gels, gummies, and drops or sprays. Taking these supplements when you’re not deficient can cause unwanted side effects, such as:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Headaches
• Diarrhea
• Tiredness and weakness
• Tingling or numbness in extremities

If you experience any of these side effects, stop taking B12 supplements immediately and consult your doctor if symptoms worsen.

The Link Between B12 Supplements and Health Risks

Research has also linked high-dose B12 supplements to increased health risks, including:

• Skin conditions like acne, rosacea, vitiligo, and atopic dermatitis
• Colon cancer risk in older adults
• Longer hospital stays and higher mortality rates in hospitalized patients
• Less favorable chemotherapy outcomes in breast cancer patients

While these findings are not yet fully proven, they serve as a reminder to consult your doctor before taking B12 supplements.

B12 Injections: A Different Story

If you have a severe vitamin B12 deficiency, your doctor may recommend B12 injections to boost your levels. These injections are generally considered safe and rare side effects include diarrhea and swelling. However, in rare cases, you may experience serious side effects like skin rash, weak muscles, or itching. If you notice any of these symptoms, call your doctor immediately.

Vitamin B12 Interactions

B12 can interact with certain medications, affecting absorption and potentially leading to deficiencies. These medications include folic acid, metformin, vitamin C, and proton pump inhibitors. Consult your doctor before adding B12 to your diet if you’re taking any medications.

Dosage and Storage

Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, meaning excess amounts are flushed out of your system. While there’s no tolerable upper intake level, taking B12 supplements when you’re not deficient can still lead to side effects. Your body can store B12 for 3 to 5 years, making deficiency rare. Consult your doctor to determine the best dosage for you.

When to Call a Doctor

If you experience side effects from taking B12 supplements, stop taking them immediately. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your doctor to determine the best course of action.

Food Sources of Vitamin B12

The National Institutes of Health recommends the following dietary allowances for vitamin B12:

• Teens and adults over 14: 2.4 mcg
• Pregnant women: 2.6 mcg
• Breastfeeding women: 2.8 mcg

You can get your recommended daily allowance of vitamin B12 through diet alone by consuming B12-rich foods like red meat, lamb, chicken, fish, shellfish, milk, eggs, liver, and cheese. Vegans and vegetarians can opt for fortified foods like soy products, yeast extracts, and bread or cereal.

The Bottom Line

Vitamin B12 is essential for our bodies, but taking too much can lead to unwanted consequences. If you’re considering supplements or injections, consult your doctor to determine the best course of action. Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health.