If you adopted a vegan or vegetarian lifestyle, you've taken an amazing first step towards an optimal healthy lifestyle. However, these lifestyles can put you at higher risk for vitamin B12 deficiiency. Inadequate B12 levels can lead to an assortment of medical problems, like dementia, depression, and osteoporosis. Dr. Suzanna Dotson in Pembroke Pines, Florida provides B12 injections to her patients who are suffering from the vitamin deficiency. If you think you or a loved one might have inadequate B12 levels based on your lifestyle, call Mind, Body & Spirit Med Center or schedule an appointment online today.
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a vital role in your brain function and red blood cell production. B12 is naturally found in some animal food. Good sources of vitamin B12 are:
If your vitamin B12 deficiency is left untreated, it can lead to neurological problems or pernicious anemia. This occurs when your body doesn't have enough B12 to produce the red blood cells it needs. In fact, low blood levels of the vitamin are linked to several health problems, including:
Vitamin B12 is essential for your brain function, as well as your bone and eye health. If the B12 level in your blood is low, vitamin B12 shots are the most common and effective way for preventing or treating your deficiency.
Vitamin B12 injections are not something to casually get if you don’t have a deficiency because you may not see a significant benefit.
Dr. Dotson injects the vitamin intramuscularly (into your muscle). Injections usually contain hydroxocobalamin or cyanocobalamin — both are very effective at raising your B12 levels and preventing or reversing a deficiency.
It’s unlikely that you would need B12 injections if you consistently maintain a well-balanced diet, including foods naturally rich in vitamin B12. It’s not unusual to get your supply of adequate B12 through your diet. However, if you’re at risk of deficiency, it’s recommended that you take oral supplements or receive injections.
If you’re concerned whether your vitamin B12 intake is adequate, call Dr. Dotson or schedule an appointment online to discuss your treatment options.
