Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms (+ how to test for it and treat it with supplements)

[@drwestinchilds]

*Note: I forgot to add that B12 deficiency can also cause HAIR LOSS (at sub-optimal levels) and ANEMIA (only if severe). This is the B12 supplement that I recommend but you can find others that are similar as well: www.restartmed.com/product/power-b-complex/

[@ronzellewis7060]

OK DR I HAVE MY THYROID REMOVED 15 YEAR AGO AM ON MEDICATION I HAVE LOW TESTOSTERONE SHOULD I TAKE B12 WOULD IT BENEFIT ME AND IF SO WHAT IS.THE BEST B12 VITAMINS PLS RESPOND

[@amyyaitza1]

What B12 do you recommend me to buy?

[@Keep-on-ok]

If I take B vitamins with an evening meal, I will be awake until 1:00AM.

[@Keep-on-ok]

I thought B12 had to be sublingual. These are capsules.

[@wesbilly]

@@Keep-on-ok nutritionfacts . Org says take it on an empty stomach. I researched this

[@samanthacameron3226]

I had hair loss in 2008 - thyroid tested. 2 x scopes for reflux . Gallbladder removal 1996. Pins and needles in hands and feet 2009 - tested for diabetes. treated for back and neck pain 2010. Tinnitus - growling in ear - electric shock sensations / crawling on the skin / depression - told ? psychosis 2013. Treated with meds and ended up on a ECG - gait / walk changed. Things continued and I had palpitations - extreme fatigue. Felt like I was vibrating ( now know it was internal tremors). Was treated for anxiety. Brain fog with difficulty swallowing / talking. Ended up with an aspirate pneumonia. Was treated but not investigated further. Developed extreme tremor - previously reported and dismissed. Balance and walking problems. Numbness in hands and face and feet. Decided to have private bloods obtained. B12 was 19. Vit D was 7. Folate was 1.1 . Bone profile abnormal. I looked like someone with Parkinson's disease at this point. Neurological review - subacute combined degeneration of spinal cord due to b12 deficiency. Was told this happened due to misdiagnosis and no treatment. I have started treatment and have slight improvement. We still dont know if I have permanent damage or not. I was a healthy mum of 3 and a very devoted midwife prior to all this - I now struggle with daily activity. I just joined a b12 support group and discovered that this happens a lot here in UK. I am gutted. I almost cried when I saw your youtube video - someone who actually understands and gets this. They should make ur video mandatory for GPs here. Much love to you !

[@olivianichole288]

Oh my gosh thank you for sharing. I am experiencing all of these symptoms and I keep being told its anxiety and it's in my head. I am getting so depressed I was considering suicide because I felt there was no hope. There are days where I feel like I'm dying. I am a mom of one ...had him 6 months ago. Got my b12 tested waiting for results. I hope they find out what's wrong with me. The electrical pains in my legs are so bad they wake me up at night. I am so weak I cant walk up the stairs anymore:/

[@frenchustube]

OMG! I have the same symptoms. Neurologist ordered blood test and was deficient in vitamin b12. Had daily injection for 1 week and now once a month. Balance and gait problem, gallbladder removed,tinnitus,slurring my word at times. I hope you are better.

[@frenchustube]

@@olivianichole288 Olivia how are you feeling now?

[@Jacob96wv]

How are you doing now

[@danutadolata2530]

MMm'' .

[@aljab100]

Dr. Childs. I really appreciate your video on B12. I am a 70 year old male with diabetes, cholesterol and atrial fibrilation. For the past months I was feeling very tired, had to take naps during the day and lacked energy. I went to see my doctor who ordered a blood test for B12. It came back with 310 which is barely above the minimum range of 232-1245. The doctor advised me to take B12 supplement with 1000 mg. I did buy it and started using it 4 days ago. I was shocked at how quickly things changed. I am not tired anymore. I am mentally sharper and do not need afternoon naps. Today I stumbled across your video and watch it in entirety. I exhibited most of the symptoms you listed. I appreciate your video very much and highly recommend it. In fact, I subscribed to your channel. Keep up the good work, Sir.

[@gina101creativeartofficial]

I have pernicious anaemia and before I was tested for low B12, I was extremely ill. I got to the point I was unable to walk, I couldn’t function at all, I was so exhausted to the point I was asleep most of the time, I couldn’t stand up, I was extremely clumsy, my brain fog was severe and I had to have treatment at home due to the severity of the symptoms. I have B12 injections every three months. I would say to anyone who has these symptoms to please get your blood test, also if you can, please ask to have the homocysteine test as well. After doing a lot of research with the help of the Pernicious Anaemia Society here in the U.K. I have been advised that the Serum B12 is generally inaccurate as it shows inactive B12 levels, meaning your real count is much lower. Also Dr’s here don’t treat it unless your levels drop below 211, which is dangerously low and leaves you prone to long term neuropathic issues and psychological issues which manifest long before the haematological changes. Another point to note is that folic acid masks B12 deficiency so please keep that in mind as if you’re taking it, you could be masking your deficiency without realising. It’s also worth noting that in reality, any serum B12 reading below 1,000 is actually considered a deficiency according to the Pernicious Anaemia Society, so a lot of work still needs to be done to change the guidelines and to teach Dr’s in order to protect patients in the future from long term lifelong damage due to low B12.

[@kemamaharaj5707]

Dr Westin Childs good morning from South Africa. Am a cancer patient out of treatment now. My b12 was bad i used to lose balance get forgetful. Am 70year old. I have neurobion injection once a month. Am now taking it for 7 months and i do feel a big difference. Thanks again for your beautiful message. Hope my journey in life goes well. God bless you always and stay safe

[@speratum]

I'm a woman. My MCV is 98. My doctor didn't mention b12 deficiency. He only suggested me to take iron, whereas my iron level is normal. Thank you so much for this useable information!!!

[@drwestinchilds]

No prob!

[@gunscratch]

How do you supplement if you’re on PPIs? I have a feeling my long term use of omeprazole might be making me b12 deficient.

[@cheriehalter2229]

I rarely comment, but you, good sir, are a genuine doctorand worthy of my humble praise. Thank you, I suspected a deficiency and have been battling this for more than a decade to varying degrees, and this information presented so succinctly was something I could really take hold of and validate and even more importantly use to make corrections. I can't thank you enough for your channel. I wish we had actual doctors we could visit that have your command of their own gray matter and the guts to provide care as such, rather than the one size fits all socialist system we have now. I wish ALL insurance and pharmaceutical companies would become a thing of the past. I would rather pay my doctor, one such as yourself, directly monthly whether I use them or not than an insurance company. I am not alone.

[@tonik2734]

Wow! I accidentally came across a b12 video this morning and I think someone knows my life history. I have most of the symptoms listed. I happened to have a bottle of b12 that I started today. I will have to check the type it is. I am tired of being exhausted with brain fog that leaves me feeling like I get absolutely nothing done in a day. Thank you so much for the clear and concise explanation!

[@cornypinkuni9519]

Did you find the correct forms of b vitamins to improve your situation? I saw a Naturopathic Doctor with degrees in biochemistry. She happened to be savvy about more recent genetic information in the past decade or so which my GP clearly wasnt aware of. The ND prescribed appropriate forms and amounts of b vitamins and it was radically life changing for me. Cleared my brain fog, eliminated anxiety, radically improved my sleep quality I woke up rested for the first time in 20 years, my energy returned like it was in my teens and 20s, stress management improved, my mood is awesome even through stress of being a shift worker at high demand work. Life is so much better I wish everyone could feel this good. I hope you figure out what will help you. ♡

[@eduardschweden1736]

From my experience as a medical doctor: what is importandly lacking in this presentation about vit. B12: if there is a block or twist in the vertebral column at the level of thoracal vertebra 5 , 6 and/or 7 , which is a very common problem wihtout people realising this: there might be pressure on one side of the orthosympathic nerve stations of nodes which are lined up just in front of these vertebra's: Then this pressure in the nerves to the stomach which leaves from there, by twisted T5 T6 or T7 gives chronical irritation to the stomach (too much nerve impulses) In the wall of the stomach there is so called intrinsic factor, which is needed to absorb vit. B12, and will through the irration in the stomach nerves become less available for B12 absorbtion.. So many people dont absorb B12 well anough in their gut for that reason, and consequently T5 T6 and T6 need to be controlled first whether these are in position or not and adjusted by an osteopath or somebody well trained for these vertrebral joint problems. Meanwhile this is the reason it is better to start with B12 by injection somewhere in the muscle until the readjustment of the thoracal column has taken place..

[@AntonioLiberato08]

This seems like me; wow! Thank you.

[@emmsue1053]

Oh my goodness, this is a revelation. Thank you so much Doctor. Wish our GPs here in UK were more clued up, I have felt unwell for years since damaging those exact three discs at work!!

[@200Nora]

In my first medicare visit labs ordered revealed B12 deficiency, quite low. I had been experiencing symptoms that kept hindering my my ability to work and daily life activities and interaction with others. I had also shoulder and knee pain with limping. But at 66 you are just getting old, That was my train of thought. We are programed to believe that getting old is the root of all sickness. The thing that surprised me the most, is that my dr did not prescribed any supplementation since my D was also in the dumps. She just wanted to prescribe me and got me on Metformin (bad for b 12). I was also in a pre diabetic state and osteoporosis. So on my own, I am also a nurse, I went on to supplement and change my diet and increased my activity. I feel very blessed and lucky because I know that irreversibly damage can happen with this deficiencies. I had most of the symptoms you mention to a mild degree. I am still supplementing but every other day; my labs show they got to the normal range. I also eat more wholesome foods with lots of fatty fish sardines. I also took care of the pre diabetes with a low carb diet and exercise. Thank you, that is a brilliant explanation that people should take notice of!

[@cornypinkuni9519]

I've been seeing doctors with these symptoms since I was 27. They told me I was getting old since then, and everyone told me i was getting old in the decades since but I would see old people with more energy than me so it was confusing haha. Good for you figuring things out for yourself along the way. I work shiftwork and high stress job too and thought it was combo of that plus getting old. I eat well, rately drink, and although not celiac wheat was clearly an issue (now I know it's because wheat is "fortified"with cheap synthetic b vitamins 30% of people cant provess). I even supplemented with b vitamins. But it took me until i was 50 to finally take my bloodwork to a savvy Naturopathic Doctor with biochemistry degrees and some awareness of recent science related to genetics to really have a breakthrough. She saw my bloodwork, prescribed non-synthetic active form methylated b vitamins and 3 days later I was bouncing out of bed with the energy I had in my teens and early 20s (prior to birth control pill which seemed to eff up my health). She also ordered a dna test which she had a trusted epigenetics firm translate the raw data from and now we have a better idea what was specifically impacting me. I gave TEN times the energy. I can shave standing up. I can plan more than one task a day. I'm keeping ahead of the pack at work with my focus, concentration, and stress management. Inflamation went away. I sleep soundly and wake up rested for the first time in over 20 years. I hope you get your miracle too. Surely you deserve it. ♡

[@jmseipp]

Extreme fatigue, being barely able to climb a flight of stairs, heart pounding so bad that it feels like it’ll explode! Feeling like you’re 98 going on 99! Very painful ‘pins and needles’ feeling in arms, hands, fingers. Confusion, inability to concentrate or study. ‘Geographic Tongue’ with dark purple areas, cracks along the edges and numbness. These and more are the symptoms I experienced with a severe B12 deficiency due to being stubbornly Vegan for so many years. I was finally diagnosed by an alternative medicine doctor through blood work and he had me injecting B12 2X per week, then 1X per week, then monthly, for years. I now maintain my B12 levels with sublingual Methylcobalamin supplementation. It made a world of difference! If you are hypochloridic (low stomach acid), lack Intrinsic Factor or don’t have the proper gut bacteria, you won’t be absorbing B12 from your diet. Sublingual supplementation with sublingual Methycobalamin is the way to go. A great book on this subject is titled ‘Could it be B12?’ Find it on Amazon.

[@terrialdrich9477]

So much info ~so much passion to help. You're amazing Dr. Ty

[@edwardlocke874]

I have been diagnosed with b12 shortage, I have all those symptoms. The numbing and tingling come and go so I hope we can get a handle on it. Thank SOOOO much Doctor! 13:02

[@crolmac]

Good video. I finally was told by a neuro to take b12 and within 10 days saw difference. Didn't change anything to my hair, but a low grade urinary incontinence i took for granted after my delivery has gotten better over the year i am taking it, and one strange thing i saw nowhere in these videos: my feet which swell in hot weather, only got to about a fourth of what they usually swell....just as an info...plus i realised that i probably have this on and off since a young age...

[@trafficjon400]

I saw many were feet swell in lack of b12.

[@chrisgabriel4310]

I just checked the Central Market brand of B complex I had been taking and it had the not so good kind of B12. Now I’m taking Dr. Childs B12. I feel better.

[@EmilieLaughlin]

This 13min video gave me more insight than my normal doctor visits! I suffer with PCOS and can't seem to find help with any of my local doctors. How can I get you to be my doctor lol

[@trafficjon400]

I told your normal doctor. he wants you to Fire him. 🥴🥴🥴😂😂😂😂🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@crystalkeara8868]

My MCV is 95 and homocysteine is 15. B12 serum was low normal range so my doctor put me on weekly methyl B12 injections. Hopefully I will soon be doing them myself at home. Great video.

[@ds2348]

Find a place that gives the Myers Iv. They are wonderful

[@MrDandelio]

I had the symptoms and suspected thyroid issue, this morning I was getting a blood sample ( finger prick) for a home thyroid test. The blood would not flow, it took a great deal of effort to barely fill the tiny container. In the meantime my whole body turned white and cold, my fingers and toes remain white and tingly even when trying to warm up by gentle exercise. I have a good diet but autoimmune issue (not enough stomach acid part of it) so it looks I may have hit home….Thank you 🌸

[@lynnpoag8173]

Hi Dr! I have a question… if B12 blood serum level is 303, methylmalonic acid is 87 and MVC is 89, would you consider this low B12 or normal?

[@jasminami]

Is there a potential side effects of long-term B12 usage? Symptoms of shortness of breath and heart palpitations? Should B12 intake be avoided in combination with other supplements, D3 or B6?

[@8mora888]

Vit B12 is water soluble and leaves your body in urine if you take extra VitB12. Vit D3 and B6 should not be avoided.

[@shelleyannbeme]

I had all those symptoms. My doctor put me on a B12 vitamin. I am feeling better.

[@mizzmention8555]

Hi did you get tingling in your legs? How much b12 did you take?

[@atrynaatryna5254]

Dr told me you don’t need more b12 because your B12 level is 230 .But i have all these symptoms, what should I do? Thank you Dr

[@sandragriffiths9692]

Me2. What next. I am not tired though

[@renusharma1332]

The best video where B 12 is well explained -thanks

[@MMpinkflowers]

Before I got my genes tested and before I got educated on the topic.. I used to use cyanocobalamin with horrendous fx. I have the mthfr gene and have switched to methycobalamin and also take dessicated liver pills. Game changer

[@Keep-on-ok]

I agree. Change to the B12 you mentioned above. Also, has folate instead of folic acid.

[@HeartBreakHigh]

Amazingly useful information, thank you! . God bless you doctor! 💚

[@divya4605]

@Dr. Child's. bang on .....yes B12 deficiency is a nightmare I suffered for decades and supplementation seemed to help tremendously and surprisingly quick. Please make a video on boils root cause if possible, as thyroid people also develop insulin resistance, high LDL and fatty liver due to slow metabolism . Any connection or missing link?

[@jimmycarrollgodblesspoland5521]

I have been diagnosed with haemochromatosis , but I have also have B12 deficiency,any suggestions

[@pauldow1648]

Hi. Good overview. Thanks for tubing. Did have trouble reading some of your scribbles and understanding your speech as its fast snd words were run on.I

[@d.c.1132]

right. speech. too fast. and reading well.difficult

[@jrowlove7328]

So happy for this subject! Thank you.

[@rajavignesh7216]

Is memory loss (short term), scalp related issues , mouth ulcer or gum related issues related to b12 deficiency 😢, plz someone confirm it

[@djjonesy1519]

I'm not sure if these comments are still getting a looked at, but I'll ask my question anyway in hope. My question is about the red blood cells. I have a blood disease/disorder called Polycythaemia (Uk spelling) that means my bone marrow creates too many red blood cells and my blood gets too thick. I've had it for quite a few years now. I've recently been told I now have Vit B12 deficiency and will have to have some injections for it. I actually haven't been able to have my normal treatments for the Polycythaemia in over a year due to Covid. I read or watched something that mentioned B12 also affecting the red blood cells and you also touch on it saying it affects the size. So I guess my question is a broad question of how it will be affecting me with the Polycythaemia and B12? Could my Polycythaemia and lack of treatment be a cause for the vit B12 deficiency? Or are they totally separate and not interlinked? I mean I think I eat well enough to get the B12 in my diet. So I'm not sure why I now have this problem. slowly over the past year or 2 I've grown more and more Fatigued, to now where I'm at a point where I can't walk more than approximately 80 meters before having to stop for a rest. I'm exhausted. Feet are numb and tingly. Lower legs below the knee on both legs are stiff as a rock when I have to stop. It's also more so on the right leg to a point where it's now reaching up on the right to my thighs and mid section. I also had a pain in the ball of my right foot like I'd somehow hurt it on the inside, which is strange. I'm also only 43 yrs old. It sucks lol. It would be interesting to see what you thought on this, but if not perhaps someone else with Polycythaemia will read this and share what they have experienced. Cheers in advance for any advice or input. If not, I hope you all have a wonderful 2021 Christmas. Stay safe! Peace

[@roseb.7104]

Thank You Dr., I'm taking B12. Thyroid Problems. I can't gain weight. I'm 5'8" and weigh 145..

[@Carylina1]

Rose why do you want to put on weight. You don't have an excess of weight.

[@barabaraholmes7442]

Yes i was told by dr that my B 12 was low last month and iron was low also just started taking b12 i hope i will feel better soon. Thank u so much 4 ur info

[@ursulakoriath5133]

B12 and iron are often low because of reduced stomach acid. Take these as supplements together with digestive enzymes and/ or betaine hydrochloride during a meal to increase absorption

[@GuitarManUa]

For iron deficiency watch Morley Robins.

[@faribam2494]

Hello Dr. I am from IRAN.thanks alot for this information.i follow you.you are very kind.🙏🙏🙏

[@drwestinchilds]

No problem!

[@Annikichan]

Any foods you can eat to prevent B12 deficiency in the first place?

[@maranatha8768]

No I’ve tried it. It won’t work that way b12 leaves fast and needs replenished a lot more daily

[@latrice3795]

I'm using Nature Bounty B-12, 1000mcg. Is this the correct brand to use based on your suggestions.

[@btrevillian391]

Years ago... tired, low mood, weight gain... diagnosed depression, prescribed Prozac. 10 years later... BP drops/fainting when heart rate elevated... no diagnosis. 2 more years... anemia... numbers under 9; take iron, no change in numbers (stable). A few more years... tingling/numbness in my fingers/hand and forearm... treatment at chiropractor for previous pinched nerve (bone spurs C5 C6 C7. She's the one who suggested I have my B12 checked... not the dr that I had seen for years who had all my records and ordered blood work annually. Now, I can tell when it gets really low. A fast spiral into moodiness, irritability, brain fog, exhaustion gets an extra dose of methylcobalimin and a good night's sleep.

[@GuitarManUa]

Watch Morley Robins about iron anemia.

[@jjustice7429]

Have Crohn's since 1999 and got labs back a few weeks ago that indicated low b12 levels. First time ever but I knew something was up because I felt tired all the time and started getting headaches which is uncommon for me. I started taking 1000 mcg Methyl B12 a day. Within four days my bowel movements went from one to two daily to four to five daily. I cut down to 250 mcg a day and it went back down to two a day. After a four or five days I went up to 500 mcg then the next day back to 1000 mcg daily. Immediately my bowel movements jumped back up to five. I need to take the B12 but I can't handle the way it makes my stomach feel and the increased bowels movements. Should I try a different kind (hydroxo)? or will the shots help with affecting my stomach? Thanks for any help you can give me.

[@seascape1059]

'Better You' do a spray version of B12, absorbs into the cheek. Great for people who can't tolerate high doses of medicines because of stomach issues.... I use them and they work!

[@MunkieBusiness]

Hi Dr. Childs Methylmalonate 0.11 umol/L, Homocysteine 12, B12 183, MVC 80-85. I was given an Intrinsnic Factor antibody test right after having a B12 shot. Tested positive. Iron 46 mcg/L, TIBC 298, Iron Sat 15%, Ferrtin 147. Currently taking Iron 65 mg and B12 1000 mcg. Currently have numbness and tingling. Would love to hear your thoughts. Had a Gastritis/gastroenteritis attack in March and Lung infection in April. Unable to heal. Been a long year.

[@ds2348]

Over 20 years ago I started getting the Myers IV , just to improve my overall health, I told my doctor, how good I felt after the Myers iv I had more energy, but felt relaxed at the same time He immediately had me do a blood test that came back positive for MTHFR 677 I inject my b vitamins at home now with no medical issue's My homocysteine levels are good

[@charuverma5802]

I’m allergic to methylcobalmin. I get urticaria. So it’s difficult to be on supplements. I’m also a vegetarian because of religious compulsions. What can I do to improve my deficient Vit B-12 levels? Would really appreciate help here because no one has been able to.

[@rockstarofredondo]

Eat a lot of eggs maybe? B-12 really only comes naturally from animal foods.

[@theuntouchabletee4470]

my MCV IS ALWAYS IN THE 90S i do drink a lot of coffee its usually 91-93 should i get a b 12 supp i have had a few of these symptoms and my drs always tell me im fine

[@8mora888]

Get homocysteine tested.

[@srmedia1234]

@Dr. Westin Child's have you ever heard of Valproate Acid impacting absorption of B12? I had tests couple of years ago and found to be low but did not continue taking supplements. Recently, symptoms got worse so I started taking B12 with Methylcobalamin & Adenosylcobalamin 7 weeks ago but I'm still tired and recently my numb foot is numb more regularly.

[@pattiburns211]

I have epilepsy and take epilim .... thankyou for this important helpful information 😊

[@cornypinkuni9519]

Beautiful video, thank you for helping people.

[@carmendiaz9738]

Great content and info...you have given me much needed info because I believe I need to be tested...have the tingling and hair loss plus other symptoms too. Most helpful...thank you so so much. God bless you!

[@hibiscusrose6074]

Thank you for this information. I have hypothyroidism and was treated with radioactive iodine, since then have never been able to get the right balance of meds used to take levothyroxine couldn't get on with with them got heart palpitations, bloated all over and felt like I had fluid in my lungs. So now taking Cynomel 0.025 mcg still not idea was asked to add 0.010mcg/0.05mcg l. The symptoms you listed for lack of B12 I have all of them. Used to take B complex and I stopped don't know why. How about B 1 can it be taken with the B12?. Wish I had seen this before seeing my endocrinologist would have asked for that specifec B12 blood test. Once again thank you. How about magnesium is it a good supplement for hypothyroidism currently taking floradix magnesium liquid formula.

[@trafficjon400]

endocrinologist can be very dangerous. they are so many things they don't know about your immune and how man made metabolic Hormones react with natural Hormones. Steroids cause more Depression Psychosses in America than any other. OTIOPAROSS- cushings induced syndrome- Autoimmune Disease Adrenal shutdown so many other sickness no one could even fathom.

[@ronniemat8437]

Dr. Westin Childs, I have a rare hereditary condition which is complicated. Because it affects the brain it's difficult to tell whether I have deficiency in B12. I am anaemic but not as bad as in the past. Would you have any advice to offer to treat mutiple micro bleeds, which affects the body in diverse ways. Thanks

[@pattiburns211]

A very helpful video. I have epilepsy and through comments i found my medication inhibits B12. I need my meds but now i know i need a B12 as i have suffered for many years and it has had a huge inpact on my life. I was so tiered and weak and i was told this is because i have depression.

[@agnesrock8212]

I always value your topic esp when I have Hashimoto, Hypothyroidism and goiters. I’m taking Levothyroxine 50mcg daily. From my complete blood count back in January, my MCV was 92. I feel tired and sleepy - does it mean I have B12 deficiency?

[@explore_with_sagan9596]

I had low b12 before my tests showed I have hypothyroidism. Low b12 can cause thyroid and vice versa. Both are correlated, so is vit d. Check both.

[@AmyLesher]

How do B12 injections compare to oral supplements? Would you recommend them? Without a methyl problem is sublingual “c” form okay?

[@8mora888]

The oral supplements are cheaper than B12 injections. The oral supplements work.

[@beckiwildeman600]

If you do not have a problem with absorption than yes you can take the sublingual.

[@nancyliu577]

I have B12 deficiency. I am on supplement. 500mcg a day. What I really want to is why do I have this deficiency.

[@sandrabishop8822]

I've had B- 12 deficiency and had to take B-12 injections. Can certain medications. Give you B-12 Deficiency and also Anemia I'm 55 yrs old now and take certain prescription medications

[@maranatha8768]

Acid reflux medicine can give you b12 loss

[@janemasini2810]

Left eye twitching 3mths, numbness fingers, muscle jerking toe cramps at nite, brain fog, dizziness, staggering when walking dr did full blood test said it was normal😮 I couldnt see b12 tested on my test, I'm worried that this is something sinister 😮

[@cornypinkuni9519]

Personally, after experiencing what a dramatic difference the proper form of b12 and b9 made to my health, energy, sleep, digestion, neurotransmitters, and more, and learning that 30% of people are genetically predispositioned to struggle with converting b vitamins into usable form, I cant help but feel the same way about how sinister that b12 tests aren't standard tests and so many GPs are too busy pushing big pharma "solutions" (which dont work) when the real fix is so simple as methylated b vitamins! This should be criminal malpractice.

[@ashleyandchloe]

Is sublingual helpful for someone with pernicious anemia, megalorhomboblastic anemia. Or is IV / IM the only way. Thank you! 🙏❤️

[@hilmajerry975]

Very educational video. Thanks 🙏🏽

[@drwestinchilds]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@adriandumitru9873]

Hi , I only did a blood serum test and it came out 357 pg/ml and i have all symptoms without numbness/tingling and heart palpitations. Is this value an indicator of a low B12 or should i also do MCV and Homocysteine ?

[@8mora888]

Do the Homocysteine test to see if it’s elevated.

[@d.m.5102]

I have seen patients with serum B12 levels>1000, who do not take supplemental B12 How do you explain this? TIA

[@Beowulf-wt3kb]

This is crazy. My B 12 was 1550 and 1245 is at the highest. But then my MCV is 95, being above 90 is a risk for B12 deficiency. So what am I supposed to do with that? Just not except the B 12 reading since you said it’s not a good indicator

[@southparkundersecretwisdom3230]

So Westin Childs, How does one reverse/cure Pernicious Anemia..... is Pernicious Anemia caused for much of the same reasons as Hashimotos? (like stress, pregnancy, infections, gluten and dairy) ??? should the doctors do the wait and see approach and see that the person's immune system completely destroys intrinsic factor inside the stomach which makes them dependent on intravenous B12 injections for the rest of their life, the same way doctors do the wait and see approach for t1 diabetes and hashimotos and puts them on life-long insulin and thyroxine ? ok, T1 diabetes has never been prevented but the LADA version of type 1 has.

[@nortonvilledrive3279]

And does this lack of B12 cause tumours and polyneuropathy?

[@shirinvallani7161]

How much dosage should we get for severe symptoms

[@cornypinkuni9519]

He cant prescribe willynilly over the internet. People will still have to do a little bit of homework to determine the specifics of their personal situation. I got a blood test and a dna test. My ND prescribed me twice chewable non-synthetic active form methylated b12 with b9 (happened to be genestra brand but other brands are likely fine so long as correct form). As my blood levels were low and I had dna variants inhibiting methylation, I took 2 of the chewable for a few months and when blood came up and I also got symptoms of too much b12, we cut dose in half which I take daily now. Feel like a teenager again, with great health.

[@jc1157]

Hi Dr I suggest the writing on your white board be in black so we can see better.Its not clear enough n your writing is too small n hard for me to read.Hope you wil make it clearer in your future videos.Thank you.

[@whitneybeverley2132]

I have been known to b12 deficit. I have ibs and no gall bladder to I get the bile dumps as well. My Dr wouldn't give b12 shots. I don't know why and in his records he states pt insist on shot. Is there a reason not to give it?

[@whitneybeverley2132]

Oh and I do have the tingling around my lower legs and periodically my whole body. Also my optic nerve became inflamed and I have lost partially vision in one eye

[@romeshsharma6994]

It is very helpful to me . All the symptoms happen to me. But I have high heamoglobin more than 17 i.e. 17.8 in blood test. Can I use vitamin B12? Please suggest me. Thanks.

[@LastTrump7]

Following answer

[@rockstarofredondo]

Love your style. Super informative. Subbed after just one vid.

[@briggs1979amanda]

Hi doc my 17 year son was told he has low b12 and was put on cyanocobalamin by his doctors his symptoms are thumnus and tingling in his face and pains in his belly he's been on his tablets for the last 3 weeks and he's not seeing any improvement how long would it be till he will see some sort of improvement we have asked the doctors and they don't seem to interested

[@cornypinkuni9519]

Please see a more informed doctor. My Naturopathic Doctor has degrees in biochemistry and is also genetically aware. She takes low b12 very seriously. She also had me take a DNA test which she took the raw data from and had it translated by an epigenetics company she trusts. She prescribed non-synthetic active form methylated B vitamins. It happened to be Genestra brand chewable b12 (metgylcobalanin) with b9 (methylfolate). I chewed 2 daily until my blood levels corrected. In three days I woke up better rested than I had been in years and I was bouncing out of bed full of energy to take on the day. I wish your son well, I'm glad if you will continue advocating for him. I hope you will drop any doctor that recommends cyanocobalamine (it bothers my stomach too, especially when I eat north american wheat which is "fortified" with that cheap synthetic crap which bothers 30% of people and instead Look into finding an ND that is biochemically and genetically aware to help finetune what will help your son. A DNA test can be very revealing and once he is one the correct form and dosage it can be life changing for the better if tge common genetic variants are his specific problem. ♡

[@artsydancequeen2964]

What if my 20 year old’s MCV level is 91. Would that be a cause for concern? Should he start supplementing with B12? I could not find a homocysteine level on his most recent bloodwork. Yes, he does have many of the symptoms you mentioned. Thanks!

[@robbyschwartz]

Give him the methylcobalamin, it's completely healthy and practically impossible to overdose on. If he's deficient, you'll be able to tell within days. You can a start with 1000-2000mcg a day

[@iseeflowers]

Do you need to test for it before taking the b12?

[@michelledavids6416]

Hi Doc, so I'm definitely vit B deficient , have been taking neurobian tabs .. but my under eyes starts twitching with the meds. So I stopped. Is this a normal side effect?

[@janezietlow2851]

I've had numbness in calves,hands and forearms over 1 year now...thot diabetes,yet only 110lbs and eat healthy. I've stumped Drs ..and after watch your video I have every Every symptom!! I'm 56 and thot maybe menopause?? Thankyou for informing me. There was a time my friend thot maybe fibromyalgia,or Ms??😢😢😢

[@cornypinkuni9519]

I relate to your comment so much! I spent 23+ years struggling with these symptoms and doctors were stumped and ratger tha admit they dont know, they delusionally hallucinated that it's all in my head. Finally a switched on GP tested my B12 and an even more savvy ND prescribed the exact correct form of non-synthetic active form methylated b vitamins and it changed my life. I feel like I won the lottery! My energy is ten times what it was! My mood is stable! Brain fog gone! Anxiety gone! I'm so happy. Life begins at 50 for me! I hope you find your miracle too. ♡

[@brasilsoccer0]

Hello Dr. Childs, I want to hear your opinion on using B complex including HydroxiCobalomine in IM form. And what would the frequency of injections be? I am currently looking in KZbin for answers to those questions

[@trafficjon400]

Found one yet? i will dought it.

[@r6bbie251]

@@trafficjon400 get info yet?

[@RadicaMilešević]

Best doctor

[@sianmegginson8110]

I have a hiatus hernia and have to take Proten Pump inhibiter 30g a day. Lansoprazole am I getting enough B12?

[@src4409]

My fmd gave me b12 injections and they are the cheap version that are junk. I actually purchase a b complex from pure encapsulations that has all of the methyl versions. I tried the injections a few times and they broke my face out.

[@faithbell6147]

Where are you located ?

[@KimYooNaa]

Hey doc, what can I take if I have B12 deficiency prior to total gastrectomy. I have tried to take shots with methyl cianocobalamina, but I don't know the level where I should be. What is the normal level of B12? Which test well show my actual level?

[@trafficjon400]

KZbin IS FULL OF VTMS PUSHERS. Company paid .

[@tsaz3555]

How low should b12 be to get psychosis?

[@julissarivas6992]

Can I have numbness and tingling from vitamin b12 deficiency or low b12 without having the other symptoms?

[@drwestinchilds]

Yes, that is possible.

[@julissarivas6992]

@@drwestinchilds thank you for responding and for all of the great information you put out. 🙏🏻

[@aalihte3378]

Crap. I'm on m e Metformin, stuff for gerd and i can't feel my feet or hands. Hard to walk

[@kamanyu558]

Dr, what if B12 in blood test are extremely high, does it mean no b12 can be taken or used by the body or brain?

[@PandaA-cv3mm]

Yes I want to know this too. As my dr told me my B12 levels are too high and to cut back on supplements but I barely supplement at all and have signs of a deficiency. I don’t think I’m absorbing it properly.

[@8mora888]

@@PandaA-cv3mm Yes you are not absorbing it properly. The book Dirty Genes talks about this in detail.

[@snarsiman]

Thx a lot Dr. I am 68 & a vegetarian .You ve greatly helped me in getting more clarity with this very well analyzed talk.suffering from these symptoms since 6 mths & consulted a dr on video due covid situation 3 mths back & am taking methylcobalamin as prescribed since then.my condition hasn't much changed .I am on thyroxcin 50 since 2 yrs (hyperthyroidism) .prior 6 mths I was maintaining high level of fitness frequently doing 40- 50 kms cycling & golfing too.now i can barely do 15 minutes walk ! month back my blood test showed 196 as b12 level .I am desperate to get back to cycling & golf . OR is it all due to hyper thyroidism ??request advice. Thank you very much in advance Dr.

[@cornypinkuni9519]

My ND said optimal b12 is 800m mine was 140 and I had zero energy also, I could hardly get out of bed. She prescribed i take chewable genestra brand b12 with b9. My bloodwork was very low so she had me chew 2 pills and let it take effect in my mouth for ten minutes before eating or drinking, altho she said water was fine. Regardung energy, I learned B9 (methylfolate) is the fire, b12 (methylcobalamine) is the firewood. In 3 days I woke up rested. My energy returned like when I was a teen or in my 20s. Follow up bloodwork raised my b levels to the 700s, which stabilized everything and I was able to take half the dose daily (just one pill)

[@kennethmoore3783]

AAFP: “Vitamin B12 deficiency is a common cause of megaloblastic anemia, various neuropsychiatric symptoms, and other clinical manifestations. Screening average-risk adults for vitamin B12 deficiency is not recommended. Screening may be warranted in patients with one or more risk factors, such as gastric or small intestine resections, inflammatory bowel disease, use of metformin for more than four months, use of proton pump inhibitors or histamine H2 blockers for more than 12 months, vegans or strict vegetarians, and adults older than 75 years. Initial laboratory assessment should include a complete blood count and serum vitamin B12 level. Measurement of serum methylmalonic acid should be used to confirm deficiency in asymptomatic high-risk patients with low-normal levels of vitamin B12.”

[@1aliveandwell]

Did find a MMA urine lab from life extension and was good. Usually high or high in serum B12, MCV is usually 96-99 for yrs. Feel better if take B12 but methylB12 causes anxiety (dont need more of that). Maybe why I craved liver as a child.

[@phoenixrising3629]

Causes anxiety in me as well. The injections cause severe anxiety and insomnia. Not sure what to do.

[@ziahsworld5252]

Can you recommend a good B12 Supplement to take? Thank you for info!

[@drwestinchilds]

This is the one that I use and recommend but you can find others which are similar as long as they have the active forms I mentioned in the video: www.restartmed.com/product/power-b-complex/

[@Keep-on-ok]

@@drwestinchilds I thought B12 had to be sublingual because stomach acid would wipe it out.

[@ScarlettDuchess]

I had severe B12 deficiency with normal MCV. I have autoimmune pernicious anaemia (that autoimmune name needs work lol). I personally need 2000 mcg daily to keep B12 deficiency symptoms away. I love my sublingual B12 spray.

[@lindalockerman8437]

I was diagnosed at 27 years of age with Autoimmune Pernicious Anemia. I am now 72. This condition has been a constant battle to keep my B-12 levels up and my Hemoglobin as well. Blood transfusions, etc. I also have Hashimoto’s Thyroid disease and complete removal of thyroid gland, Vitiligo and other Autoimmune diseases, had two miscarriages and gall bladder surgery and tonsil removal at age 50. It is definitely a battle.

[@ScarlettDuchess]

@@lindalockerman8437 Ooh welcome to the Polyglandular Autoimmune Syndrome (PAS) Type 3 club lol It’s exclusive. Less than 1 in a million. Yes we are special lol I’ll post the info on that below! I have autoimmune pernicious anaemia, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, Graves (sometimes flares up), vitilago, Myasthenia Gravis and alopecia areta. My sister shares the same autoimmune diseases I do except for Graves and Myasthenia Gravis. I actually had B12 malabsorption symptoms since I was a baby. Very slow and progressive this autoimmune PA. And normal MCV didn’t alert any doctors who would be looking for enlarged cells with B12 deficiency (MCV can be normal even with severe B12 deficiency due to various reasons such as high folate in the diet, inflammation, concurrent iron deficiency). By age 26 my B12 was tested for the first time and the result was 68 pmol/L but I was never told. I found out only a few years ago when all B12 results showed up in the history on labs. I pushed for diagnosis age 35. Only had 3 B12 injections years before at another doctor’s clinic for severe fatigue or I’d have died long before age 35. I’m 49 right now. I also have CIRS (Chronic Inflammatory Response Syndrome) due to toxic mould exposure. The same HLA genes that cause my autoimmune diseases make me very sick from toxic mould. 😭 From Medscape… “In the context of PAS III, the autoimmune diseases that most frequently cluster with autoimmune thyroiditis are immune-mediated diabetes mellitus and celiac disease. [3] PAS III can be further classified into the following three subcategories: PAS IIIA - Autoimmune thyroiditis with immune-mediated diabetes (IMD) mellitus (also known as polyglandular autoimmune syndrome type 3 variant) PAS IIIB - Autoimmune thyroiditis with PA PAS IIIC - Autoimmune thyroiditis with vitiligo and/or alopecia and/or other organ-specific autoimmune disease PAS III is associated with the following diseases: Organ-specific autoimmune diseases - Celiac disease, hypogonadism, myasthenia gravis Organ-nonspecific or systemic autoimmune diseases - Sarcoidosis, Sjögren syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis Other diseases - Gastric carcinoid tumor, malabsorption due to exocrine pancreatic deficiency”

[@cherylgriffith2025]

Could you give me the name of the ingredients you should look for in buying vitamin B12 supplements and the one ingredient you dont want in it. Watching your video was very informative. Thank you

[@trafficjon400]

You never find one i never did. no body will. its more of a company pusher for prophet whether it be for you tube or any other.

[@beckiwildeman600]

@@trafficjon400 there are a few companies that do. Write down the 3 active B-12's that he gives in the video and you will find it.

[@sl4983]

When I took a half chewable of b12, I started to get a sharp pain in my toe

[@ginaneely1147]

I do have pernicious anomia, don't respond to oral supliments, am injecting weekly with cyanocobalamin. Should I switch to a metho or adeno form of injections if I can even find such a thing?

[@drwestinchilds]

You should, yes.

[@Katrn30]

I take cyanocobalamin injections s/c once a week but just increased it to every other day as I had muscle and joint pain and extreme fatigue. My grandfather died of pernicious anemia caused dementia, discovered on autopsy. I wonder why hospitals in Canada and the US ( I have worked as a nurse in both countries) if cyanocobalamin injectables if methyl is so much better? I can get methyl in Canada from a compounding pharmacy at about 10 times the cost. I used methyl for one year and did not notice any difference. Maybe I don’t have the gene that prevents cyano from being metabolized???

[@8mora888]

You can do 23&me to test for the VitB12 metabolism gene.

[@daviddowns7552]

Im hoping im right but i just restarted b12 again. Its jarrows cherry flavor chewables. 5000 mcg. They also have lemon. I have been feeling extremely fatigued and always sleeping thru the day and cant sleep at night. Long story but common i guess. I think the methylcobalamin makes me feel better and hope it can help me stay awake in day and sleep at night. I also added ginseng with this. Gingeng is good for the body at least i hear. People have used it for centuries i read. So far im doing ok. I have a point low reading on my thyroid so i have to use 50 mcg synthroid. Otherwise my labs were good. Just hoping for the best cause i am or have been miserable!!

[@mollymwenitumba6641]

Can i have your email so that i can write to you about my daughters problem. She is 22, she is having difficult walking and balance issues she falls quite often. Her serum b 12 is slightly above normal, her neurologist picked something from MRI scan that indicates low cellular B12, she is on cyanocobalamin shots one a month but symptoms are still there ie no improvement. He legs feel so heavy she hardly makes 10 steps without getting weak and off balance completely. Kindly help doc, please

[@samiberger7018]

My B12 level is 82!!! I’ve just been released from a week long hospital stay because I had severe numbness & tingling and new onset of difficulty with balance & walking. After an extensive work up & many scary things considered in the differential diagnosis, I was diagnosed w/ severe B12 deficiency. I would like your thoughts on treatment. Currently the plan is weekly cyanocobalamin shots x 8 wks, then monthly. I’m reading about much more aggressive tx protocols in the UK.

[@explore_with_sagan9596]

I am also om 1000 mcg methylcobalamin shots weekly. Same symptoms as yours, all went away after 10 injections. Make sure you take a good b complex supplement daily. Because all b vitamin work together. I have heard methylcobalamin is better for body than cyanocobalamin.

[@8mora888]

@@explore_with_sagan9596 yes.

[@marizborja8750]

Is it bad if we take vitamin B12

[@DC-ef8op]

how much should i take

[@Remember_when]

I have fatty liver and tested above normal for B12. Problem is that I have all the symptoms of low B12. I don't understand why.

[@8mora888]

I tested the same way for VitB12. This is because your liver cannot break down Vit12. It’s elevated in the blood test because your body can’t use it. If you take methyl-vit12 your liver can use it.

[@Remember_when]

@@8mora888 Thank you so much Rex. I think that I have some methylcolobin (or something like that.) I'll give it a try.

[@sandrabishop8822]

I need. A good Dr too. My Dr tests me for certain stuff you know like A-1C Levels. and other stuff for anemia and vitamin D Deficiency but i need to get my back checked for arthritis and osteoporosis because my mom and sister has and had it my 36 year old son has lots of back pains too.

[@E10l]

Hi Dr. Thank you for this precious info. I would really appreciate if you can shed some light on my situation🙏🏻 Does the recovery from b12 deficiency take months or the problem for my symptoms is somethimg else? My initial B12 was 300 and now its over 2000. I got 35 B12 shots of cyanocobalamin every other day over two months(sublingual pill didn’t help) and only now I feel much better but a few symptoms still persists such as Telogen Effluvium(hundreds of hairs fall out each day,eyebrows hairs and lashes. the derm thought its stress related.), White smooth tongue and white ridged nails ,tingling in feet,GI issues and memory issues. My dr doesn’t know what the cause. My blood tests are good. Thyroid hormones are perfect but something is wrong. something that affects my hair, nails and memory. My father have some of my symptoms and his B12 was 210 and he eats meat everyday. All of my life I was completely healthy and now so many symptoms without an explanation. Do you think I need to check for homocysteine and MMA although I got many injections? maybe the cyano form is less effective? Thank you!!

[@crickettmoon7082]

You should have an ANA test, sounds like Lupus.

[@E10l]

@@crickettmoon7082 Luckily, I don’t have lupus. Unfortunately, I have an horrible autoimmune skin disease

[@8mora888]

Yes check for homocysteine.If it’s elevated take methyl-vit B12 sublingual, methyl-folate & P-5-P. It could be your body could not absorb VitB12, the methyl group has to be added to VitB12.

[@beckiwildeman600]

He said in the video that Cyanocobalamin is not good you need one or all of the other 3 he mentioned.

[@passionatepotato]

What should we do if our bodies aren't utilizing B12 efficiently?

[@ursulakoriath5133]

Sometimes B12 (and also iron) is not absorbed due to decreased stomach acid. Take a good vitamin B complex together with digestive enzymes and/ or betaine hydrochloride with a meal

[@8mora888]

Get homocysteine measured

[@elsawoods9476]

Thank u so much for ur time and help

[@wendyramsey5335]

Can you please tell me if they include the forms of B12 you recommended, do B12 shots help for B12 deficiency?

[@drwestinchilds]

I'm not sure who they are that you are referring to?

[@liliinnewyork3870]

I got a B12 shoot and I felt much better. Definitely faster that pills.

[@wendyramsey5335]

@@drwestinchilds If B12 shots have the B12s you recommended do they help with B12 deficiency? I can't find any good info on B12 shots. I have tried the supplement form and am still deficient. Thank you:)

[@drwestinchilds]

@@wendyramsey5335 Oh, yes, of course! I think B12 shots are better but they aren't always available.

[@wendyramsey5335]

@@drwestinchilds Awesome:) thank you so much