Which brand vitamins should I buy and how should I take them if I am starting Levo?

[misha008]

Hi

I have been prescribed a low dose of Levo (25mg) but I am low in Ferritin (42) range is (20.00 - 204.00)). And I need to take B12 (652) as I've read I should be around 1000. Also folate is low-ish - 9.4 (3.10-20.50)

Can you recommend any brand of iron, folate and b12 to buy? I've been advised not to go for multi vitamins. Should these be prescribed or can I find good ones OTC.

And is there any point starting my Levothyroxine (25mg) if my serum ferritin is so low? I've read here that it should be around 70 to work with the Levo. Or should I start and just make sure that I'm adding to my iron at the same time?

Finally - any recommendations on good books where I can learn more about this?

Thanks so much.

[SeasideSusie Remembering]

misha008 Even though your ferritin is low, I would still start your levo. 25mcg won't do much anyway as it is a starter dose, but you should feel some benefit as your dose increases with time.

For iron you can get Ferrous Fumarate (you can get it from Amazon). Take 1 tablet twice daily. Take each tablet with 1000mg Vit C to aid absorption and help prevent constipation. If you find you do get constipated or an upset tummy, then change to an Iron Bisglycinate which is more gentle and non-constipating (Solgar Gentle Iron is one such brand). Retest ferritin after the course as you don't want it going too high. Always take iron 4 hours away from your Levo and other supplements and medication as it will affect absorption.

For B12 you can get Solgar or Jarrows sublingual methylcobalamin lozenges 1000mcg, dissolve under the tongue (never chew). Don't get a tablet/capsule form as stomach acid destroys B12.

When taking B12 we also need a B Complex to balance the B vits. Thorne Basic B or Jarrows B Right both contain 400mcg methylfolate which will help improve your folate level. Take B vits in the morning as they can be stimulating. B Complex usually says to take with food, B12 lozenges don't have to be taken with food because they are sublingual the blood vessels under the tongue ensures they go directly into the bloodstream.

A good book about thyroid is Dr Peatfield's 'Your thyroid and how to keep it healthy'.

[misha008 in reply to SeasideSusie]

Exactly what I needed to know. perfect. Thanks