Vegans 'need to be aware of B12 deficiency risk'

[MichaelJH]

I heard this on the news this morning. It stuck a chord as I saw one of the "beauty shops" offering B12 injections alongside derma fillers, botox, etc. My feeling was no way would I want an injection like that unless advised by a GP/consultant. Also vegan diets are quite actively promoted these days so feel the warning is worth highlighting!

bbc.co.uk/news/health-50836442

[Milkfairy Heart Star]

The Vegan society gives this information about fortified foods and supplementation.

vegansociety.com/resources/...

[SpiritoftheFloyd]

I've just had a crash course of six B12 shots over two weeks as last blood tests came back with a low red blood cell count. Not the most enjoyable experience - got a strong stinging sensation as the B12 went into arm!

That aside, bit worried about "beauty shops" carrying out these procedures!

[MichaelJH Heart Star in reply to SpiritoftheFloyd]

I found the fact someone was offering B12 injections somewhat disturbing. Whilst you can buy supplements injection is a whole new ball game especially if there is no diagnosis of anemia. If there was treatment should be left to your medical team.

[SpiritoftheFloyd in reply to MichaelJH]

I totally agree. You read about stories of people going for dental work, cosmetic surgery in places like Turkey, Romania, Hungary etc for a third of the cost of the UK and ending up in life threatening situations. Any procedure like this should be carried out in a place that has full medical qualifications

[Janma123 in reply to MichaelJH]

B12 deficiency and anaemia are two different conditions.

There is a much misunderstood condition called Pernicious Anaemia that affects the body’s ability to extract and absorb vitamin b12 from food. The process of extracting and absorbing b12 from food can be hindered by long term use of both metformin and PPIs ( omeprazole, lansaparole etc). Diets that exclude animal sources can also give rise to deficiency.

Another cause is age - as we age stomach acid production decreases which reduces our ability to break down and extract vitamin b12 from food.

[NorthantsSteve]

This article from September relates to this issue. Vegans and Vegetarians have 10 fewer cases of heart disease and 3 more if stroke per 1000 people. It’s suggested that this is because of a lack of vitamin B12: google.co.uk/amp/s/www.bbc....

[lettingoffsteam]

Well I've cut out meat and eat fish occasionally and some low fat dairy.I make sure I eat vitamin B12 rich foods and I take a vitamin supplement.I have lost four and a half stone as a result and my cholesterol level has dropped to 3.6 without statins( it was 4.7 before) plus my glucose levels are bang on.I used to get palpitations after I ate...they've gone and whilst I suffered from IBS from my twenties this is now a thing of the past.Not only that I feel that I am doing my bit for the planet as well.All diets have their pluses and minuses it's about taking a reasoned approach.

[Hidden]

I was just reading an article earlier in either the Standard or the Metro as though it was a restaurant review roundup. It was actually a review of Drip shops opening in London where you can just roll up and get put on a "pick up" up drip which you pick from a menu. One mentioned B12 specifically and various unlisted minerals - unlisted seriously. How are these places even legal here

[MichaelJH Heart Star in reply to Hidden]

Frightening! 😱 I have visions of people thinking drips can correct bad lifestyle choices!

[Hidden in reply to MichaelJH]

That's really how they are promoting it. A pick me up to get you through the busy festive period they don't mention hangovers but the implication is there.

It is in the London Evening Standard the article is on their FB page

[aby12]

I think there is nothing wrong with B12, it's important for the making of red blood cells and cellular tissue metabolism that contributes to a better look of your skin. There are different skin treatments on the beauty market now. I go for a visit to a dermatologist at an aesthetic clinic here cliniccleo.com/ twice a year and I'm also taking supplementing with B12 to reduce dry skin. She also does the dermal infusion treatment which is a non-invasive exfoliation with the infusion that improves and revitalizes the skin. My skin looks healthy and younger. I'm 46 years old but I look like I'm 30 and I'm very happy with the results.