Vitamin B12 and your hormones

Staying in good health relies on many different factors. Keeping fit, eating a good diet, avoiding toxins, our genetic make up, the environment we live in. One thing is for certain though; we need a healthy balance of vitamins and minerals in order for our bodies to function well.

I often recommend clients take a good Vitamin B complex as I frequently see a deficiency with this vitamin in my practice. Many of my clients have been taking the oral contraceptive for a number of years, which robs your body of essential vitamins and minerals and are suffering with signs of deficiency as a result.

Why Do I Need Vitamin B12?

Vitamin B12 is involved with a staggering number of physiological functions. One of its most important roles is in the formation of red blood cells. Individuals lacking an ability to absorb dietary B12 (for example, anaemia) have a lower than normal number of red blood cells. Without enough vitamin B12, the red blood cells don’t divide normally and are too large. A lack of vitamin B12 is also linked to hormonal imbalances and fatigue.

Common Medications that Deplete Vitamin B12

• Metformin (glucophage) given to balance insulin in Type 2 Diabetes and common in women with Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
• Statins such as Lipotor that lower cholesterol, also reduce B12
• Oral Contraceptives and HRT also reduce B12 and B6 stores

Are you Vitamin B12 Deficient?

You might be! Many women are deficient in vitamin B12 and don’t even know it. The symptoms develop gradually over years and are often attributed to other conditions. If you’re taking an oral contraceptive for 10-15 years then it’s likely your vitamin/mineral balance has been disturbed.

Here are some of the symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency:

• weakness, tiredness or light-headedness
• rapid heartbeat and breathing
• pale skin
• sore tongue
• easy bruising or bleeding, including bleeding gums
• stomach upset and weight loss
• diarrhoea or constipation

If the deficiency is not corrected, it can damage the nerve cells. If this happens, vitamin B12 deficiency effects may include:

• tingling or numbness in fingers and toes
• difficulty walking
• mood changes or depression
• memory loss, disorientation, and dementia

Prevention of a deficiency

Most people can prevent vitamin B12 deficiency by consuming a balanced diet, which includes poultry, seafood, fish, feta cheese, yoghurt and eggs. If you don’t eat animal products or you have a medical condition that limits your absorption of nutrients, it’s recommended to take a B12-containing multivitamin. Also, re evaluate whether you need to take oral contraceptives and can use a safer, hormone-free form of contraception.

Confused?

Why not book yourself in for a consultation with me to see how homeopathy could help get you back into balance and what supplements you might need alongside to support you.

Contact me to arrange a free 15-minute clarity consultation.

Until next time, have a happy healthy week!

Claire Zarb LCPH
t: +44 (0)7582 269569
e: claire@clairezarb.com
w: www.clairezarb.com
s: c.zarb

photo credit: colindunn via photopin cc