B12…not always created equally
B12 is important to build red blood cells and nerves. It also supports proper DNA development. Most individuals who are vitamin B12 deficient on lab work, have some preexisting condition, such as gastritis, auto immune disease, take multiple medications that deplete b12 stores or are malnourished. Vitamin B12 tests are not the most accurate way of telling how the cells are utilizing b12, or if they are utilizing it at all. So, in fact individuals with adequate numbers on lab work could actually be deficient. In the presence of MTHFR, B12 can look adequate or even elevated on lab work but be completely depleted inside the cell where the B12 is needed most.
Experiencing any of the symptoms on this list could mean there is a B12 deficiency in the body
Light-headedness, tiredness and fatigue
Shortness of breath and elevated heart rate
Poor concentration and memory
Tingling and numbness of the feet and hands
Lack of coordination and balance
Diagnosis of persistent anemia
Excessively pale skin
Sore tongue
Rash around the mouth
Bleeding gums and easy bruising
Upset stomach
Abnormal weight loss or gain
Hallucinations, depression, mania and irritability
Adequately Inadequate vitamin B12 intake
For individuals with a MTHFR mutation, B12 absorption and utilization is faulty. Individuals with any issue with digestion B12 absorption are impaired. In order to make the proper amounts of stomach acid, B12 is needed as a cofactor. Without this digestion IS impaired. Vegan and vegetarian diets are deficient in B12, posing a greater risk of deficiency in individuals with MTHFR, this can lead to other nutrient deficiencies and health problems.
The best foods for boosting B12 are
Clams and beef liver
Eggs, fish, poultry, meat, milk and other dairy products
Nutritional yeasts, some cereals and other fortified foods
Suspect B12 deficiency with any of the conditions listed
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