vitamin b12 injections
Vitamin B12 is to the human body what petrol is to a car. Without it you wouldn't get anywhere. B12 can be naturally found in meat, fish and dairy products. These are often referred to as natural sources of B12. Both meat eaters, vegetarians and vegans can suffer from B12 deficiency, making B12 deficiency a common problem. This can be resolved with B12 supplementation.
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Injections
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Vitamin B12 injections are used to treat lower levels of this vitamin in the body, this is often referred to as a deficiency. B12 helps your body use fat and carbohydrates for energy and make protein. It also has an important role within the blood, cells and nerves. Most people should get enough B12 through the oral intake of their diet, but a deficiency may occur due to certain health conditions such as gastrointestinal disorders, cancers, hereditary issues or general poor nutrition. Up to 90% of vegetarians and vegans may have a B12 deficiency.
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Vitamin B12 is a water soluble vitamin and so, whatever is not needed, is simply passed out of the body via our natural waste processing system. It is an intramuscular injection in the top of the arm which enables it to go straight into our bloodstream and is administered very quickly.
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B12 Rich Foods
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You can access vitamin B12 in animal foods, which have it naturally, or from items that have been fortified with it.
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Animal sources include dairy products, eggs, fish, meat, and poultry. If you're looking for a food fortified with B12, check the product's Nutrition Facts label.
Symptoms of a B12 deficiency
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A B12 deficiency can only be diagnosed via a blood test. It is sometimes difficult to get this via your GP as the symptoms can be very similar to a number of other conditions. If, however, you feel like you have a some of the symptoms below then make an appointment to see your doctor. If they are reluctant to offer you a test, then there are a number of places where you can obtain a private blood test for a fee.
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Symptoms include:
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extreme tiredness
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a lack of energy
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pins and needles (paraesthesia)
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a sore and red tongue
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mouth ulcers
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muscle weakness
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disturbed vision
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psychological problems, which may include depression and confusion
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problems with memory, understanding and judgement
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Sometimes, a blood test will reveal that you have low levels but not necessarily deficient and therefore, will not require treatment on the NHS. In these circumstances, private vitamin b12 injections can be life-changing!
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If you would like more information about this or any of our other vitamin therapies please email us pamperandpolish@hotmail.co.uk