Exploring the Potential Side Effects and Interactions of Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12, an essential nutrient for DNA production, red blood cell formation, and brain health, is found in a variety of foods such as red meat, lamb, chicken, turkey, fish, shellfish, milk, eggs, liver, cheese, and fortified foods like soy products, yeast extracts, and many bread and cereals.
For most individuals, a daily intake of 2.4 micrograms is recommended. However, pregnant women require slightly more at 2.6 micrograms, and breastfeeding women need approximately 2.8 micrograms to ensure an adequate supply for their babies. The recommendations are based on the German Nutrition Society and expert sources.
While B12 shots are generally considered safe for those deficient, they can affect side effects like diarrhea and swelling. Rare, serious side effects include skin rash or hives, weak muscles or cramps, itching, vomiting, nausea, headache, leg pain or warm, tender pain in one leg, dizziness and fatigue, frequent peeing, feeling super thirsty, fast heart rate, and swelling of extremities. In extreme cases, an allergic reaction to vitamin B12 injections can occur, with symptoms including swollen face, tongue, and throat, difficulty swallowing, and difficulty breathing.
It's important to note that high dose B12 supplements may be linked to skin conditions like acne, rosacea, vitiligo, and atopic dermatitis. Furthermore, certain medications such as folic acid, metformin, vitamin C, H2 blockers, chloramphenicol, proton pump inhibitors, aminosalicylic acid, colchicine, gastric acid inhibitors may interact with B12.
A 2016 study involving hospitalized people found that participants with high B12 levels needed longer hospital stays and had a higher chance of dying. Similarly, a 2019 study involving people with breast cancer found less favorable chemotherapy outcomes for participants taking B12 supplements. A 2019 study also found that older adults supplementing high doses of vitamin B12 were at an increased risk of colon cancer.
Despite these potential risks, B12 is stored in the body for 3 to 5 years, and there is no tolerable upper intake level (UL) for B12. However, if you experience side effects from B12 supplements, it is recommended to stop taking them immediately and consult your doctor for guidance.
The National Institutes of Health provides recommended dietary allowances (RDAs) for vitamin B12, and certain drugs or supplements can lower your body's B12 levels by affecting absorption, so you might need to take a B12 supplement to keep red blood cells in tip-top shape.
If symptoms persist or worsen, it's crucial to consult your doctor for guidance. It's also essential to remember that taking B12 supplements may still lead to side effects even if you are not deficient in B12.
In conclusion, while vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient with numerous benefits, it's crucial to be aware of its potential side effects and interactions with other medications. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice regarding your B12 intake.
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