First B12 injection

[Curious123]

Hi everyone,

I have just had an IV iron Infusion today (my 3rd in the last 5 years) and my first ever B12 injection as my results came back deficient (Ferritin 10ug/L, B12 164pmol/L, Active B12 23nmol/L). Just wondering if there is any guidance on appropriate co-factors to take to get the most out of the injection? I have another 2 scheduled before I return to the UK in just under 2 weeks. Details of both are in the photo attached.

Thanks for your help!

[fbirder]

Most would recommend you increase your intake of folic acid. 400 ug a day (from the supermarket) would be enough. Eating lots of leafy green vega beans, seeds and pulses would be a better way.

Do you know if you had macrocytic amaemia? If you did then your body will now be starting a burst of red cell formation. That can use up potassium. It couldn't hurt to swap any salt you use for lo-salt (where one-third of the sodium chloride is replaced by potassium chloride) for a month or two. Bananas are also a good source (especially in a daiquiri).

[Curious123 in reply to fbirder]

Thanks fbirder, I will look into the folic acid/food sources and will grab some extra bananas. I don’t believe I was anaemic, my haemoglobin was 124. Because I’ve had recurring iron declines and was monitoring the levels I was able to get onto it before any anaemia occurred. I think also because I was both iron and B12 deficient it may help as one causes bigger red blood cells (B12) and the other smaller ones (iron)?