Absorption of vitamins and Minerals in tablet form

[Bialystok]

Looking for some advice. I have a 3 monthly B12 injections due to poor absorption. My question is - will l have absorption difficulties with other vitamins or Iron in tablet form? Are these types of tablets ineffective for people like me?

[Adsypadsy]

Hi,

I think it's more a specific connection between B12 and intrinsic factor in the gut. Without active intrinsic factor, B12 cannot be absorbed. Although people with PA often also have low stomach acid which may contribute to other absorption issues.

I'm sure someone can provide a more accurate explanation.

[Bialystok in reply to Adsypadsy]

Thanks, I really appreciate the feedback. I will take it all into account when considering other responses. Thanks again

[Nackapan]

I find if I take iron away from caffeine abd taken with vit c its the best absorbed

And what helps what get absorbed.

I also find smaller sounds throughout the day work best.

I mainly go by blood results.

I've tried to stop iron completely as have a good diet but going by blood tests I've needed a Los dose maintenence dose since starting b12 injections.

So am absorbing from supplements to compliment food.

Folare I absorb from food and even a Low dose supplement of 200mcg sends me above range??

Vitamin D however I need alot to keep just in range??

So on 3 monthly b12 you shouldn't have too many problems.

Get a blood test.

Only way to know really.

[Bialystok in reply to Nackapan]

Thanks Nackapan. Some really good points for me to think about. I’ve had the blood test and iron levels are low. I’m now awaiting a doctor call. I think I may have damaged my stomach a few years ago when I took some rather aggressive antibiotics ( Lymecycline- not sure about the spelling) for a prolonged period. Thanks again.

[Gambit62 Administrator]

A B12 absorption problem doesn't mean that other vitamins and minerals will be affected but it is very common - folate because its also mainly absorbed in the ileum so if the ileum is damaged then it may be affected to - and iron are the main ones that CAN be affected. Tablets are good if you need to supplement but best to consult a pharmacist - particularly with iron as you can overdose. Best sources are generally food so important to check that you have enough in your diet first.

[Bialystok in reply to Gambit62]

Thanks for your detailed response, I really appreciate it. I’m not sure if my ileum could be damaged. I am suspicious of using the Lymecycine antibiotic over a prolonged period and I think this may have been too aggressive. Also alcohol, I would say I was a frequent drinker for most of my adult life (not spirits) and maybe this could have caused some damage. No alcohol now for 2 &1/2 years. Doctor has now prescribed some iron tablets so hopefully things will improve. Thanks again.

[doityourself]

Thank you so much for this post, exactly what I wanted to ask.Ive had the feeling for a long time that Im just not absorbing nutrients from my fairly healthy diet and at 65 GP just says 'age'.

Are there tests one can get to test vitamin and mineral absorption without GP referral?

Wishing everyone well and an extra surge of energy!

[Bialystok in reply to doityourself]

Great point, l’m also interested if anyone has the answer to this.....thanks for asking.

[Littlelodge123]

Some vitamins and minerals need an acidic environment for uptake. If you have PA your ability to produce stomach acid is compromised. Depending on how much it is compromised you could find it difficult to absorb iron and B6. They both need acid for uptake. I do not have the medical references for this at the moment but it is proven. I have not researched others so can’t comment

[Bialystok]

Thank you so much for this comment. I have just received a prescription of ferrous sulphate from my GP but not started taking them yet. I read the instructions and was concerned at some of the side effects that they can cause and some of the restrictions around taking them i.e. not too soon after tea or coffee (caffeine). I also asked the doctor if they can cause constipation which he said they can and if this happens just take laxatives. I didn’t particularly like the thought of getting into this cycle. I’m tempted to take a smaller dose with vitamin C and to monitor any effect on blood results. Again thanks for such a thoughtful answer.