QuestionI had a CBC done and the doctor said that my B12 was low.The reading was 169.
Now she says I have to get B12 shots every month.
What caused it.I am not a vegetarian.
Also I read on the web that getting those shots helps you loose weight.Is that true.
Every other year that I got a blood test it never showed up.No other tests were done to find out what caused this problem.
Thanks
AnswerDebbie,
The reason why some vegetarians have problems with low B12 levels is because B12 only comes from animal sources. In order to get it, you need to take a multivitamin if you are a vegetarian.
Some people, whether they are vegetarian or not, still end up with low B12 levels. The low levels in this case could be caused by an absorption problem. For these people, it is necessary to get shots.
I'm not sure if the shots will help you to lose weight. I've never heard that before. If anything, I would think they'd result in a weight gain. Low B12 levels can cause a decrease in appetite. Once you start getting the shots and your body gets the amount of B12 it needs, your appetite should increase.
Let me know if you have more questions.
- Beth
