What are the side effects of too much b12? + Video
excessive b12 side effects : Vitamin B12 is an essential nutrient that plays a critical role in maintaining our physical and mental well-being. It is essential for the production of red blood cells and DNA, as well as the proper functioning of the nervous system. Vitamin B12 is found naturally in animal-based foods, such as meat, fish, and dairy products. However, some people may not get enough B12 from their diet and may require supplements.
Is Too Much B12 Bad (Can You Take Too Much b12?) :
While vitamin B12 supplements are generally considered safe and well-tolerated, there is a concern regarding the potential for excessive B12 intake and its associated side effects. This essay will explore the potential risks and side effects of excessive B12 intake.
First, it is essential to understand the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the recommended daily intake of vitamin B12 for adults is 2.4 micrograms per day. Pregnant and breastfeeding women require higher amounts of B12, at 2.6-2.8 micrograms per day, respectively.
Excessive B12 intake can occur through either dietary intake or supplements. While there is no established upper limit for B12 intake, there is a concern that excessive intake may lead to adverse effects.
One potential side effect of excessive B12 intake is acne. Acne is a common skin condition characterized by the formation of pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads on the face, neck, chest, and back. While acne is often associated with hormonal imbalances, some studies have suggested that excessive B12 intake may also contribute to the development of acne.
A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that people who took vitamin B12 supplements were more likely to develop acne than those who did not take supplements. The study included 10 participants who had previously been diagnosed with acne and were given B12 supplements. After six months, the participants experienced an increase in acne severity, which was attributed to the B12 supplements.
Another study published in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology found that high levels of vitamin B12 in the bloodstream were associated with a higher risk of developing acne. The study included 195 participants with acne and 195 controls without acne. The researchers found that those with acne had significantly higher levels of vitamin B12 in their blood than those without acne.
While these studies suggest a possible link between excessive B12 intake and acne, more research is needed to confirm this association.
Another potential side effect of excessive B12 intake is gastrointestinal symptoms. The most common symptoms include nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms are typically mild and resolve on their own once B12 intake is reduced. However, in rare cases, excessive B12 intake can lead to more severe gastrointestinal symptoms, such as gastrointestinal bleeding.
A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reported a case of a 64-year-old man who developed gastrointestinal bleeding as a result of excessive B12 intake. The man had been taking B12 supplements for several years and had developed a B12 overdose. The researchers attributed the gastrointestinal bleeding to the excessive B12 intake, which had caused the man’s blood to become too thick, leading to the formation of blood clots and bleeding.
While gastrointestinal symptoms are the most common side effect of excessive B12 intake, they are typically mild and resolve on their own once B12 intake is reduced.
Another potential side effect of excessive B12 intake is peripheral neuropathy. Peripheral neuropathy is a condition characterized by damage to the peripheral nerves, which can cause symptoms such as numbness, tingling, and weakness in the hands and feet.
A study published in the journal Neurology found that high levels of vitamin B12 in the bloodstream were associated with an increased risk of peripheral neuropathy. The study included 700 participants over the age of 60 who did not have neuropathy at the beginning of the study. After five years, the researchers found that those with the highest levels of vitamin B12 in their blood were more likely to develop peripheral neuropathy.
It is important to note that while these studies suggest a possible link between excessive B12 intake and these side effects, more research is needed to confirm these associations. It is also important to note that vitamin B12 deficiency can have serious health consequences, and it is essential to maintain adequate levels of B12 in the body.
If you are concerned about your vitamin B12 intake, it is recommended that you speak with your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can help you determine if you are getting enough B12 from your diet or if you need to take supplements. They can also help you determine the appropriate dosage to avoid the risk of excessive B12 intake and associated side effects.