Absorption issues

[Nana321]

If my stomach can't absorb B12 does that mean it's not absorbing the oral supplements that I take daily such as multivitamins? Thanks for any and all input.

[jade_s]

Not necessarily. B12 is a unique molecule that cannot pass into the bloodstream and into cells without the help of specific B12 transporters. If malabsorption is due to pernicious anemia or a genetic condition, then it's only the B12 that's affected. However if you have autoimmune gastritis, which goes hand-in-hand with PA, it can cause low stomach acid which may in turn affect how well you're absorbing any other nutrients. Or, you may have coexisting hypothyroidism, which can also cause malabsorption or inability to hang onto vitamins and minerals. Or for whatever other reason, many of us end up with low iron, low folate, low Vit D, low magnesium, and so on. Luckily those can be spotted in blood tests, so normally people suggest getting ferritin or a full iron panel, Vit D, and folate tested periodically. A full thyroid function test (TSH, FT4, FT3) can also be useful to get. Stop any B-complex or anything containing Biotin 1 week before any testing, as it can interfere with tests especially thyroid ones.

[Nana321 in reply to jade_s]

Thank you jade_s, very helpful.

[Marz]

If your Multi-vitamin contains iron or calcium then they can negate the benefits of other vitamins. Test Folate - Ferritin and VitD and supplement individually as required.

How are you taking your thyroid meds ?

[Nana321 in reply to Marz]

I take it as soon as I wake up. I wait until lunch to take other meds. I was told vit D deficiency 2 yrs ago. Should I stop the multivitamin and just take vit d ? I'll ask gp to check ferritin and folate on next visit. Thank you for your input. Greatly appreciated.

[Marz in reply to Nana321]

Docs are often reluctant to test vitamins these days 😪

Multi-vits often contain the cheapest forms making it difficult for us hypos to absorb. Also lots of fillers. I would look for on-line testing for B12 - Folate - Ferritin - VitD. B12 good at 500+ - Folate and Ferritin good around mid-range and VitD around 60 ng/L or 125pmol/L.

I am usually on the Thyroid UK Forum here on HU where you will find lots of knowledgeable people happy to help. Many of us are on both fora to gain maximum knowledge !

Perhaps it's easier in the US to have vits tested. How much VitD are you taking ? Co-factors ?

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