Vitamin B12 is essential to proper body function. Unfortunately, our bodies do not produce this vitamin naturally. It is found in foods such as dairy, meat, and fish. In order to gain enough Vitamin B12, daily consumption of these foods is necessary. Each person’s individual requirements differ based on factors such as age, regular diet, and specific medical conditions. Your medication regimen may also influence levels of the vitamin. Those deficient in this building block may not even have symptoms for five or six years due to the ways in which B12 is stored in the body’s organs and tissues. Having an insufficient supply can cause a number of serious health issues. Fortunately, you can supplement this lack with Vitamin B12 shots at our office.
Reasons for Vitamin B12 Deficiency
There are a variety of reasons you could be deficient in Vitamin B12. Pernicious anemia is a condition in which the body is unable to properly absorb Vitamin B12. If the lining of your stomach has thinned, known as atrophic gastritis, your B12 levels may be below. This can also be the case for those who have had weight loss surgery or other procedure in which part of the stomach or small intestine was removed. In addition, medical conditions affecting the small intestine can contribute to the problem. Disorders that affect the immune system could suppress Vitamin B12 production. Deficiency is seen frequently in those who are heavy drinkers of alcohol and in vegans who do not consume the food products that are the primary source of B12.
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Low levels of Vitamin B12 can manifest themselves in a number of ways, leading to potentially serious health problems. Symptoms of a deficiency are numerous and include:
• Fatigue, weak muscles, and lightheadedness
• Constipation, diarrhea, or gas
• Pale skin
• Loss of appetite
• Numbness or tingling of the hands or feet
• Vision loss
• Depression or poor memory
• Behavioral changes
The Vitamin B12 Benefits Injections for Vitamin B12 Deficiency
Vitamin B12 shot to have a number of benefits over other forms of supplementation. The quick absorption of injections into the body makes it particularly useful for those experiencing fatigue, as energy levels are restored more quickly this way. Vitamin B12 shots also tend to produce better sleep, clearer skin, improved memory, and lower stress levels. Overall, B12 injections are a far more efficient way of delivery since B12 is resistant to absorption through other means.
If you suspect that you could have a Vitamin B12 deficiency or it has been confirmed that you do, Vitamin B12 shots at Simply Slim Medical may be a practical solution for you. Schedule a consultation at our office in Bethesda, MD, or Falls Church, VA for information related to your needs. We happily serve clients in the DMV and Tysons Corner, VA areas. Contact us today to book an appointment to learn more!