If you are generally fairly healthy, you may think that you are not at risk of developing low levels of B12 and that taking b12 shots is something that you do not need to worry about. In all actuality, a surprising number of people have low B12 levels and don’t even know it. This is particularly disturbing because in addition to the serious neurological issues that a B12 deficiency can cause, even moderately low levels of B12 have been linked to chronic disease. Thus, they could potentially mitigate their risk factors for disease by taking a regular B12 shot.
One study conducted looked at individuals between the ages of 26 and 83 and discovered that some 65% of them had levels of B12 that were low enough to begin to cause neurological damage as well as a host of other health issues. Since B12 deficiency is generally considered an older persons disease, what was most surprising was that age did not seem to matter. Low B12 levels were just as prevalent in younger people as they were in older which means that people of all ages should consider taking b 12 shots.
The B12 Homocysteine Connection
The reason that you need to be worried about even moderately low levels of B12 is that recent research has conclusively linked low levels of B12 with increased levels of Homocysteine. Homocysteine is a toxic amino acid that is the by-product of many natural bodily functions. When your B12 levels are low, Homocysteine levels increase and with it your risk factor for developing a number of diseases. High levels of Homocysteine have been linked to early death, strokes, heart disease and miscarriage. Increased Homocysteine levels may also contribute to Alzheimer’s disease and chronic fatigue syndrome. Research has proven that b 12 shots are an effective way to deal with increased levels of homocysteine.
It is clear that even in the absence of vitamin b12 deficiency symptoms, you should be worried about low levels of B12. Unfortunately, testing B12 levels comprehensively is very expensive. The most basic tests often come back showing that B12 levels are fine, when in fact they are not. To get an accurate test costs over $4,000! This means assuming you have 80%/20% insurance, you can expect to pay $800 out of pocket.
Since there are no serious risk factors with taking vitamin b12 shots or b12 supplements, you may want to consider this option. B12 shot side effects are very minimal. It is a great way to mitigate your risk and improve that chances that you will enjoy a long and healthy life. Don’t wait for b12 deficiency symptoms to show up!
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