What is B-12?
B-12 is a nutrient that helps to keep your nerves and blood cells healthy. It can be found in either food from animals or it can be fortified into foods.
How does B-12 affect my body?
Given that B-12 promotes health in your nerves and blood cells, its effect on your body is quite important. One of the most common effects on your body if your B-12 levels are low is fatigue. Fatigue can hinder your day to day life as it can make even the most simple tasks seem impossible.
Energy levels can also greatly affect your metabolism. Constant fatigue can make losing weight a very daunting task. With increased B-12 levels your body will be able to gather more energy and in turn you will feel better.
Who is at risk for lower B-12 levels?
While anyone can experience lower levels of B-12, certain groups are more prone to experiencing low levels. One of the factors that can affect your levels of B-12, is how your body absorbs the vitamin from foods. Many older people do not have enough hydrochloric acid in their stomachs to absorb the vitamin. Also at risk, are people who had undergone weight loss surgeries.
Given that B-12 is found in foods containing meat, vegetarians and vegans also tend to have lower levels and need to make sure that their bodies are getting the B-12 that they need.
How can I make sure I am getting enough B-12?
Luckily, finding out your B-12 levels is as easy as making an appointment with your doctor to check.
At Med Plus Centers, we offer our patients B-12 shots to help make give peace of mind that their bodies are receiving what they need. Call us today at 954-716-8488 to schedule an appointment or visit us online.