B vitamin absorbtion

[doityourself]

Given that individuals with PA cannot absorb B12 via tablet form are we able to absorb the other B vitamins this way? I'm unclear as to whether IF is needed for all B vitamins absorption.Thanks.

[wedgewood]

PA patients can absorb other vitamins and minerals in the stomach in tablet form and in food , because they don’t need the intrinsic factor, which is essential for the absorption of Vitamin B12 . BUT , the antibodies that destroy the production of the Intrinsic Factor, also deplete the production of stomach acid which is needed for the breakdown and absorption of all other vitamins , minerals and trace elements . PA patients need to make sure that they have a good diet , and perhaps supplement with a modest multi vitamin and mineral tablet

Intrinsic Factor and stomach acid are both produced in the parietal cells of the stomach. These cells are destroyed by the antibodies that P.A. patients produce . That’s how our troubles start !

PA patients are liable to suffer in varying degrees from low or no stomach acid ( hypochlorhydria or Achlorhydria) So good to pay attention to good diet , and to chew food well so that the breakdown process begins with the best incorporation of enzymes in saliva .

An acidic drink before or with food can help ( diluted organic cider apple vinegar , lime juice , Swedish bitters etc ) In extreme cases , a Betaine hydrochloric acid with pepsin capsule can help .

Best wishes .

[doityourself in reply to wedgewood]

Many thanks wedgewood for this comprehensive reply.Hope your day goes well.

[tomdickharry in reply to wedgewood]

That's another thing that's ignored by doctors. In addition to being with PA, I have malabsorption. pancreatic insufficiency, and recently GORD with hiatus hernia; consequently am prescribed PPIs like esomeprazole. I just can't win.

[doityourself in reply to tomdickharry]

GPS just don't join the dots do they? They don't even see them half the time.

[tomdickharry in reply to doityourself]

Thanks. It just makes me wonder how their brains work. It doesn't take much intelligence to realize that, PA or not, malabsorption alone will stop B12, lack of pancreatic enzymes will do the same, and if you add on acid blockers you have the ultimate mix for deficiency.

Do they actually believe what they say or aren't they really interested in keeping us well?

[doityourself in reply to tomdickharry]

I do wonder why some took up the career!