Can A B12 Vitamin Injection Boost Your Body And Mind?

We have all had weeks where we seem to feel tired and unwell for no reason. We can blame it on stress, too much to do, or a lack of sleep. 

But what if the reason you feel low on energy and not at your best is actually a B12 vitamin deficiency? 

What is vitamin B12?

B12 is a vitamin that is usually absorbed in the body through the food we eat, such as red meats, eggs, oily fish, and dairy products. It is also available as a dietary supplement and used to fortify breakfast cereals.

It is a cofactor in producing enzymes for certain biological processes. The vitamin’s function in the body is the development of a well-functioning central nervous system, helping create red blood cells and synthesising DNA in cell replication. 

Although it does not directly boost energy, B12 supports the body’s processes, so you feel less fatigued, and your cognitive function is sharper. 

What are the signs of B12 deficiency?

There are situations where the body becomes deficient in B12. Vegetarian and vegan diets sometimes mean a person becomes deficient, although yeast extracts and fortified plant milks are a good source of B12. 

In other cases, a person may not be able to absorb B12 due to a medical condition. This can lead to becoming B12 anaemic, a condition which can get worse if not treated. 

B12 anaemia can manifest with the following symptoms:

• Being short of breath or breathing rapidly

• Headaches

• Low appetite and issues with indigestion or heartburn

• Heart palpitations

• Blurred vision

• Fatigue and weakness in the body

• Ulcers in the mouth

• Diarrhoea

• Cognitive issues such as confusion and issues with memory and judgement

Deficiency in the B12 vitamin can cause some of the same symptoms as B12 anaemia. If you have a shortage of B12, you may experience symptoms including:

• Weak muscles

• Cognitive and psychological issues such as confusion, depression, anxiety and memory problems

• Clumsiness and issues with balance

• Pins and needles or tingling sensations

• Incontinence

To check whether you have a B12 deficiency, a private blood test service can analyse the levels in your bloodstream. The results will be used alongside your symptoms to determine a diagnosis. 

How is B12 deficiency treated?

There are two main ways B12 deficiencies can be treated. The first is if you don’t get enough in your diet, then a supplement may be recommended to take between meals. 

However, the most common cause of B12 deficiency and anaemia is not diet-related.

Pernicious anaemia is more common and is treated with a B12 injection so that it is better absorbed and stays in the body longer. 

These are usually administered every two or three months for the rest of your life for conditions where the lack of B12 is not diet-related. 

In the UK, the injection used is called hydroxocobalamin, also known by brand names Cobalin-H and Neo-Cytamen. It is safe to use for the majority of adults. 

However, for patients who are allergic to hydroxocobalamin or cobalt, it is not recommended. It is also not recommended for patients with arrhythmias or low potassium. 

Are there any side effects of B12?

The B12 shot is considered safe; however, as with any treatment, there are some side effects. 

As the treatment is injected into the muscle, there will usually be some soreness at the injection site and potentially some swelling and itchiness. 

Serious side effects and allergic reactions are very rare, and if you experience them, you should seek immediate medical attention.

Some mild side effects include feeling sick, diarrhoea, headaches, dizziness and hot flushes. These will pass in a short time, and your practitioner will talk through all the potential side effects with you before treatment. 

To book your B12 vitamin shot or a blood test to determine if you are deficient in B12, contact the team at Epicure in Swindon.