Vitamin B12: The "Normal" Range is Stupid. And it's killing your energy!
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- čas přidán 18. 06. 2024
- What Your Doctor Doesn't Know About #B12 Could Save You From #Burnout, #Fatigue & #Anxiety
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B12 insufficiency is a situation that I see every single day in my practice working with busy, high-functioning professionals.
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Key learnings in this video:
1. The Canadian "normal" range is stupid
2. Doctors are not trained to identify early signs of insufficiency
3. Plant-based, vegan & vegetarian diets are deficient in B12
I updated this video to include more clarity around ranges and units:
VITAMIN B12 DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS
• Symptoms of Vitamin B1...
Decoding High B12 - Unraveling the Mystery Behind Fatigue, Low Libido, and More
• Decoding High B12 - Un...
#burnout #anxiety #fatigue #b12 #b12deficiency #energy #diet #performance #productivity #bloodtest #bloodwork #healthspan #lifespan #longevity
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Dr. Jason Marr, BScH, COC, ND
Naturopathic Doctor, Performance & Productivity Coach
Vancouver, BC, Canada
evokelife.co - Věda a technologie
Sixty-five year old, UK.
My B12 came back at 132 pg/mL, I'm also vitamin D deficient and anaemic. I was only tested in the first place after a chance conversation with a B12 deficient colleague 10 minutes before my appointment with my cardiology consultant. I'm hypothyroid, take a PPI and have been on HRT for 26 years. Consultant wasn't concerned about my B12 levels and placed more emphasis on getting my vitamin D sorted, his words were "her B12 is 132, which is neither here nor there" - gee, thanks Doc.
This didn't happen overnight but as it has a lot of symptoms in common with hypothyroidism, I've always put it down to that. I've been feeling progressively worse and worse over the last couple of years and when I'm not at work, I'm asleep...or wishing I was asleep.
Sorry to hear you've been through a tough time. There's a lot going on here and only rectifying B12 insufficiency won't make everything better, but it's got to be part of the picture. PPIs and hypothyroidism both negatively impact the absorption of B12. Consider speaking with your consultant to consider B12 injections while you optimize thyroid function, and ideally wean off the PPI if possible - It's working against you to digest proteins, absorb B12 and iron, contributing to anemia, likely. However - a PPI is warranted if/when there is concern about chronically damaging your esophagus, so don't make changes here unless you're working with someone who has experience in managing this constellation of issues. Wishing you the best!
I live in Virginia, USA. Our doctors don’t care they strictly go by the labs. They also don’t tell you that most b vitamins you by her have cyanide in them either way , our lives are controlled by them in many ways. I had to do my own research . I was deficient in several vitamins. According to the labs I had . I was in the low functioning range. I took those vitamins that were low and built myself up. Feel a lot better. I cry every time I go to the doctor. No one listens . They don’t look at past history or family history. They only treat symptoms. Population control. For real!!
Sorry you've had this experience in your area! 😩
A healthy patient is a non paying patient.
Most doctors are practicing band aid medicine and are closely tied to Big Pharma.
@@drjmarr, all areas of developed nations experience the same type of scenario. I practice functional medicine here in Canada, and when I see bloodwork, I'm shocked not only by the notably too-low standard reference ranges but also by the symptoms experienced by individuals whose levels fall within these low ranges but outside of optimal levels. They are hardly ever diagnosed by conventional medicine in specific blood markers, especially in B12 and vitamin D.
Finally! Someone who actually explains in great detail about the absorption and transport process to tissues and level numbers within 5 minutes! Just brilliant! Thankyou! … please help me interpret a serum result of 1052ng/L and feel like I’m walking dead! …with zinc deficiency…’apparently’ and systemic issues, ranging from low stomach acid, EPI, SIBO, … how can I prove to my doctor that serum test results are not correct… HELP?! 🙏 Thanks again. First video of yours I’ve listened to of yours. Very well done
Thanks for the support!! With those digestive issues I'd be curious about measuring MMA even with a solid B12 serum level, but there are likely other complicating factors. SIBO and poor digestive function mean that you'll likely not be processing and absorbing all sorts of minerals and vitamins, but also basic fuels. I'd focus on optimizing digestion first and foremost!
Change the doctor. No point trying to prove anything to them. They’re clueless. All the know is info from prescription drugs leaflets. They don’t know nor do they understand how the body works or anything about nutrition.
B12 is really really important.
I felt dead sick at 200 nmol, with really weird symptoms. Now im 460 nmol from the lab test today, and my symptoms have improved remarkably. I have no fattigue anymore and those weird symptoms.
Mines 200 I only have dizziness and lightheadedness what did u do to bring up your b12 and how long did it take to bring your levels
@@greyjedik i had diziness too and many other symptoms. It took me around 1 year, i took b12 supplement. You can make it quicker with b12 vaccine.
Good presentation. The two books I own and have read are "Could it be B-12" by Pacholok & Stuart, and "Vitamin B-12 for Health" by David Brownstein. It's amazing how many prescription medications actually cause nutritional deficiencies (especially B vitamins), and express as....the very symptoms being treated WITH the medication. Ah...the medical matrix.
Hi Dr. Marr. I was googling B12 and your video came up so I watched it. 🙏🏼 thank you! I wish I was out in BC bc I would def make the effort to visit your office! I’m in ON and sadly my Dr. is useless! I went yesterday and pretty much had to beg him to send me for blood work! I just looked at the Blood Requisition and there isn’t a box for B12 let alone any Mineral (eg. Fe) or Chemical Element. Where did those elements go? There used to be the whole left side full of them but not anymore! I’m going to look into the tests on here that I’m not sure what they stand for (but the others I do bc I’ve done enough research!) 🤓🤓🤓 plus I have a background in Chemistry and studied one semester of hematology.
I’ve been doing some research and thought I might need a B supplement. Anyways great video and informative. I’ll subscribe so I can learn more. Take care!I know how busy you must be so just wanted to say thank you for answering my question Dr. Marr!!! 👏💞
It's a pleasure. Be sure to find a healthcare professional that can work alongside you to help you make the best decisions for your situation. Also, keep in mind, especially for minerals and vitamins - what's in the blood isn't necessarily what's in your tissues. Serum testing for minerals and vitamins isn't tht simple.
JUST SUBSCRED because of detailed information i am drom having blood B12 test and it is found to be 234 something here is Zambia 🇿🇲 said to be normal but i am a very active and busy personal. So started to have dizziness even though my HB is 17 so i now understand why ❤👍🙏🔥
What units is that B12 level reported in?
My levels are 235 and I keep getting told that is normal. I have pins and needles in my hands, achy feet, and get tired easily. About to make yet another appointment to see if doctors will listen to me
That's very low.... You must increase your Vitamin B12 Levels immediately, otherwise you are at risk for permanent nerve damage.
I just had my b12 test did and it was 463 and the range was between 200 and 1100. It said it was normal but I’m having some of those side effects that’s why I asked to be tested. So I’m listening to you and I need B12 I kinda figured I do
Good on you for self-advocating. Be sure to find a healthcare practitioner who you trust with whom you can have these discussions to determine your best next steps.
👍👍👍💯💯💯✔✔✔🎯🎯🎯
Thank you one million times.
Thanks for watching! Let me know what other topics I might be able to create content for that would help you!
I think doctors in general don't understand what a normal range means. Some peoples' bodies will respond at the lower end, but some people will require to be at the high end of the range or maybe higher!
Part of the issue is that doctors - general practitioners or family doctors, at least, are trained to recognize what is normal and what is not - And how to appropriate treat or refer. That is the conventional medical system. It took me over a decade in practice to train myself to let go of "normal" and start asking patients what it was that they wanted to achieve, rather than solely what symptoms they wanted to be gone!
Doc I have celiac disease, mthfr mutation, hypothyroidism,bilateral babinski sign and hoffmann sign.
My vitamin b12 now is a my lowest which is 300. My folate increase but also my homocisteine.
I have also gastroparesis and many other issue.
Can you have pernicious anemia ( which if i am not wrong share the same genetic with hashimoto, diabetes 1) with these values ?
I am following the carnivore diet because I have been diagnosed with refractory celiac disease.
I have high mch and mcv. Thanks
I live in the uk and I have an injection every 12 weeks from my surgery but I am still suffering with tingling all over my body, especially on my scalp and in my face. Everything I see online talks about pins and needles in the hands and feet but it is much worse than that and the Dr’s seem surprised when you say you have tingling elsewhere in the body. I also find that any old injuries or ailments start to hurt. I’m at a loss right now as to what to do, having to live with this is a nightmare.
What surgery did you have and what symtoms do you have now?
Greetings from Greece doctor. Thx for the video.
Even before I became vegan, I had B12 injections as routine - working in a rushed restuarant environment, where you were on your feet all day, and at the end of the night you would realise you hadn't had anything to eat or drink.
Niacin is another B vitamin that can do with supplementation.
The other supplements vegans and those on a plant based diet should look out for are Vit D and K2, which are actually not found at very high levels, even in animal products.
Good points! What was your reasoning for deciding to go vegan?
Funny enough I live in Canada and I started getting unbalanced, dizzy, headaches, and headaches so I went and got a b12 blood test. It was 135 pmol/L. They said it was only a small bit under the normal 😅
That is definitely too low. Minimum should be 650 so yours is very low. You are probably undiagnosed coeliac. Stop eating all gluten, and retest in a month or two. If it's not up, take an oral supplement of methycobablamine. Test again in two months. If still not up in the normal range (650 - 1000) then you will need the injectable form of methylcobalamin. It's super safe. No chance of overdosing. Safe, easy, wise. Good luck.
That is overt B12 deficiency and waaaay below optimal IMO!
@@drjmarrcan b12 levels be too high? a dr told a family member her b12 levels were too high and to stop taking it. she only took 1 per day and it was those gummie type. i personally think they were giving her poor advice.
@@daviddowns7552ll
Make sure it's methly B12 not cyan. Also get the one that goes under the tongue - sublingual on the bottle.
Hi I’m a 21 year old male and had a 880 pg/ml level and was considered normal by my doctor, though researching, the ranges are different and say I’m out of range. Is this normal?
Finally a doctor who says this 👍
Thanks for the video
🙏
B12 is stored in the liver, and I'm told it can take years to get nerve damage from insufficient intake.
This makes me belive the blood level won't drop much while the liver has some B12 left.
I haven't seen that guess confirmed by research, though.
Does anyone know if that's so?
If so, measuring blood levels wouldn't be any good indicator of sufficient intake.
And perhaps also be why the normal range seems so unreasonably wide!
But this is just me mostly guessing, so I would like to get some facts about that.
Started B12 last Monday. Really didn't feel much yet. I have been extremely fatigued post swim workout in the morning so will see after a couple more weeks.
3 to 6 months. Valium 20 minutes.
Just make sure you're talking to someone qualified and experienced with the matter to advise you before you take supplements.
I don't know wtf pluto is talking about guys...
My supplements are listed as 100 ug. It says not to exceed this dose. But I have absolutely no idea whether this is enough or not whereas before your video I was quite content I was getting enough. Now I have no idea. You said you won't get into units, why ? It would have helped me a lot.
My other videos on B12 are much more clear about units. As an oral supplement, 100ug (micrograms/mcg) is actually pretty low. Lots of multivitamins have 500-1000mcg per daily dosage. Speak to your healthcare practitioner before you start any supplements, but 100ug is pretty low dosage if you're trying to replete a low blood B12 level.
Carnivore red meat only begins to sound more and more healthy. Almost if like it's the optimum human diet.
Still need to eat an anti inflammatory diet (more plants than everything else) while acquiring adequate protein from a diverse range of sources IMO - Antioxidants are also important for overall healthspan! But yes, I am a proponent to consuming some red meat for most people.
Recently I have read about studies showing an increase of lung and other cancers with large amounts of B-12 supplements. Can you expound on this topic?
To "expound" in a comment thread would be irresponsibile, and I am neither a researcher nor an oncologist - but I can comment: Yes, there is an apparent statistically significant association in a few studies, with B12 supplementation and some cancers, inciuding lung cancer. But correlation does not necessarily equal causation. If I hypothesized that lung cancer and other bone or marrow based cancers dumped B12 into the blood, and so cancer causes high B12, then I could conclude that the results supported my hypothesis too.
My level was 338 m my MMA , intrinsic factor , parietal cell was all in normal range . Homocysteine was 13.8 , thyroid is good , folate was good. I am extremely pharma injured and have horrible panic and depression from this .
If that is in nmol/L, it could represent a functional insufficiency in my opinion. That homocysteine level may also represent an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease based on some data (assuming umol/L)
According to private blood check I’ve got choking result back the 13/01/2024 but glad in same time as I got to know and understand what was wrong with me. So the active B12 was 61 pmol/L and vit D was 32 nmol/L,
I’ve received D & B12 in one injection and vitamin C injection the following day.
I felt much better energy wise however i still feel weak in my body and pins in my fingers. I would like to know what’s the best to do next to bring my level up to adequate or above?
Probably will need a series of injections for B12 to establish sufficiency long term. As that is accomplished, ensuring you know why you ended up that deficient is important to determine steps to maintenance.
Hello Doc,In recent b12 tests i had 246 pg/ml and Im having more than 8 b12 deficiency symptoms...could the b12 possibly be the cause of all symptoms...could you please reply
I am 59 my B12 is 184 pmol/mL, serum iron is 12 % saturation is 0.17. I am on thyroid med (Hashimotos) and that is all okay supposedly and last year was diagnosed with intestinal metaplasia and gastritis. So frustrated because I had low B before, in 2016 had shots and then no B12 tests since about 2019. I feel like I can barely do anything yet supposedly all my problems are because I gained weight and have high blood pressure (used to be low/normal). My blood pressure went from normal to very high in 3 months. I feel like this stomach, B12 and iron issue is more important than is being acknowledged, I remember how i felt when I had optimal B12 and iron...
can you address that some studdies suggest that there is a link between supplementing with higher amounts of B12 and lung cancer particularly in men
I'm going to do a video on this. But briefly, remember that correlation does not necessarily equal causation. Prospective studies that link B12 levels with limg cancer don't typically distinguish between supplementation and dietary sources, nor form of supplementation. It's seems a more reasonable hypothesis to me that people who develop lung cancer consume large amounts of dietary animal meats (which also contain high B12), in an inflammatory diet that eventually promotes disease states.
My b12 test 1100 and feel like all the symptoms of deficiency. I took yesterday one shot of injection and feel normal can i continue?
Plants don't even contain the Vitamins and minerals anymore because the ground is depleted. of them, so being a vegetarian may not be a great idea
I agree that due to farming practices and poorer crop rotation, as well as produce being picked early to ripen during transport across large distances, produce that ends up on our plates is likely not as nutrient dense as it once was.
Or so we're told.
I currently have vitamin b 12 at 311.
I have celiac disease with babinski/hoffmann/romberg.
Even if I am on a pure carnivore diet I am in pain.
In italy the range goes from 211 to 911.
I had my vitamin b12 at 700 ( with high mcv and mch) the first year when i went on the gluten free diet and i still had high mcv and mch
you need injections..
I have some really worrying neurological symptoms now. Suffering pins ans needles for years in my hands, i was diagnosed with ADHD, anxiety and M.E 2 years ago. Last year i had cauda equina twice, two surgeries. Since my surgery i have some permanent nerve damage in my right leg. Since march i started with fasciculations, cramps, crawling sensations, burning, and complete loss of words some days. The fasciculations are now all over my body 24/7. My level is 250, here in the uk they're terrible at treating it and I'm pretty certain its what im suffering with. 😕
Make sure you're consulting with a licensed and experienced practitioner when it comes to choosing to use any supplements or forms of medicines.
@@drjmarr here in the UK we don't have insurance as we have the NHS. The NHS is broken since COVID, and GPs here are clueless about vitamins and the symptoms of deficiency. They reply on a very poor blood test for pernicious anemia and don't test what's actually in the cells. I've had to do my own homework as I'm desperate to know why I feel so Ill. I'm not happy with being told I'm fine! I saw a neurologist last week and he also had no answers for me so I'm completely no further forward.
@@kellyoftheheadgo pernicious anemia society uk this a very under diagnosed illness dr chondy as well he saved a lot of he's patients lives and nhs nearly sacked him he's a hero any how how do watch all of wot I've just told x
@@drjmarr what would the cause of high vit b 12 and not supplementing mine is 1300, haven’t taken any supplements
For Optimal Health, raise your Vitamin B12 Levels up to 590 pmol/L which is equal to 800 pg/mL.
Vertigo attacks with brain fog, feel drunk 24 hours a day. It's only happened a couple times over the last few years, and usually only lasts a couple days. This latest attack is going on 3 weeks. Just got my blood work back, without supplementation my b12 is 163pmol/L and my ferritin is 29 ug/L, all other tests were good. So far my GP has been very open to ideas, I see him again next week. I'd love to do a consultation with you but you're about an hour away. Do you recommend any other practitioners in the Lower Mainland? I don't trust myself to drive that far currently. I know you do video consults, but what if the treatment requires me to come to you?
edit to add: that the Epley maneuver is doing nothing. I did it 3 times a day for over a week, and now I've been performing the Fosters maneuver multiple times a day with no results.
I do video consults for BC residents but by the sounds of things, you'll need someone who can evaluate you physically. Where are you located? Vertigo is a tough symptom to crack, and must be super frustrating for you. Hang in there, let's find you some good help.
@@drjmarr I'll dm evokelife's instagram or if you have an email? I prefer to not give my exact city in a public forum. Thank you for your help.
For Optimal Health, raise your Vitamin B12 Levels up to 590 pmol/L which is equal to 800 pg/mL. You can go up to 650 pmol/L according to LifeLabs. No more than that.
hello Dr. Marr! thank you so much for this video. I just tested for my b12 (the result = 973 pg/ml) and Holotranscobalamin (13 pmol/L), folic acid (8.9 ng/ml). I was a bit concerned about b12 results since the range in my country is 197 - 771 pg/ml. But you video suggests my levels might be actually good. What would you say? Thank you!
I was pretty clear I was using Canadian ranges, but you're correct that we shouldn't be looking at pg/mLthe same as pmol/L.
@K B no it's not, 973 pg/ml is 718 pmol/l when it comes to b12. If you are googling it, make sure you google "b12 pg/ml to pmol/l".
For Optimal Health, you must raise your Vitamin B12 Levels up to 590 pmol/L which is equal to 800 pg/mL. You can go up to 650 pmol/L according to LifeLabs in Canada. No more than that. Pay close attention to the Units.... This is very important. You can convert the Units from pmol/L to pg/mL. For example 650 pmol/L is equal to approximately 882 pg/mL.
Hi doctor my “regular” b 12 is 913/946 pg/mL! But I am learning that the accurate blood test I should do is MMA to see an accurate b12 in my cells. So whatever blood test I got for my b12 is not accurate. Why doctors don’t say that ?! My question is if my regular blood test for b12 is pretty high is it mean that my MMA also can be high?? Thank you
Most doctors don't know that. That's why I have to make these videos! 🙄. MMA results are inversely correlated with B12 sufficiency. So if you have enough B12, your MMA will be lower - if you have elevated MMA, it means you're functional deficient in B12. This updated video talks more about MMA: Symptoms of Vitamin B12 Deficiency - "Normal" levels aren't good enough!?
czcams.com/video/jSJQvIIDefM/video.html
For Optimal Health, you must raise your Vitamin B12 Levels up to 590 pmol/L which is equal to 800 pg/mL. You can go up to 650 pmol/L according to LifeLabs in Canada. No more than that. Pay close attention to the Units.... This is very important. You can convert the Units from pmol/L to pg/mL. For example 650 pmol/L is equal to approximately 882 pg/mL.
My b12 level is 3,339 and I take no supplements. The hematologist I saw said she never heard of this being an issue despite a lot of research I’ve seen saying the opposite and that it can be a sign of something very serious going on. What are your thoughts?
Some people supplement something I forgot and it prone to lower b-12
That high level of B12 certainly needs investigating. It usually is considered to indicate break down of internal tissues, for some reason. As one's own tissues or organs break down, they release the B12 they have in them. This goes into the blood and can be picked up on a blood test. Definitely speak to your physician about this and get it retested. Good luck.
It should be looked into. Often people are getting B12 in something they don't realize, but, if that's not the case, very high B12 can be an effect of some not-so-good stuff so best to get some follow up done.
Wow! With levels that high without taking any supplements is not normal, and warrants investigation as to why so high!
Having many eggs and a lot of liver/brain will elevate it without supplements
In my home country the normal range is 138-652 pmol/l. To me it sounds like very broad range
Yep, similar in Canada. Where are you located?
@@drjmarr I'm from Finland
Mine 464. I feel unwell. Is that a range that could potentially trigger symptoms?
Possibly - it really depends on your genetics - I look at FUT2 and TCN2 gene variants to get a clearer picture for my patients.
My B12 serum value was low normal and active B12 was pretty high. Is that a normal outcome? I was supplementing mega dose of B12 until 2 weeks before bloodtest was done as suggested to not influence the test results too much. I of course continued taking it again right after the needle left my body because it makes me feel better to take it. But this HoloTC test had >150 pmol where anything below 40 is defeciency. Could this indicate my body has trouble using the active B12? All cell bloodvalues were normal.
By "active B12" I assume you mean holotranscobalmin. It's better than serum B12 as it is the next step in conversion before entry into cells, but still does not represent intracellular B12 status. I still suggest testing MMA. And yes, high holoTC is likely due to supplementation close in time to testing; not really a valid result that we can conclude anything from. The fact that your serum B12 was reasonably low despite supplementation is suggestive of an insufficiency though.
@@drjmarr thank you for your response. Yes they suggested to proceed with the MMA test to make sure there isnt any insufficiency. Sadly I have to go abroad for bloodtesting and results came too late to use the blood already send in or take new bloodsample, in my country they only take serum test and dont do HoloTC at all and bloodtesting is very restricted so I go abroad every now and then just to take all bloodtests I am interested in. With the cell testing I meant all tests done on (red) bloodcells were normal, nothing suggestive for B12 deficiency there, but I clearly feel effect when I take megadoses of B12. I take it as mouth spray because my intestines are not in good shape. Might be gluten intolerance inflaming it and bypassing it works better for me.
@@AnnaMaria-zm8cv awesome to hear you are progressing on your journey. Yes, MMA is the best next step IMO!
Hi doc, I tested 224 pmol/l, or 303 pg/ml I believe. In the result page it recommended a holo tc test for active b12, but the consultant advised against it, it was a commercial test. I didnt have the patience to request another test so I started supplementing b complex, as my folate level was actually below normal (5.2 nmol/l). How long would I have to stop supplementing before getting another blood check?
I usually recommend 5 weeks.
@@drjmarr thanks! How likely do you think it is I'd feel/have benefits from adding this supplement considering these results? Is a lower normal level suboptimal regardless?
@@gerardvdpl4409 pretty likely, and likely safe to try - low down side. Still, I always suggest ensuring you're being monitored by an experienced doc!
Im in Canada and just got my bloodwork back and it said my b12 was high. It was 698pmol/L. I do take biotin and a multi vitamin. Is this a high number for b 12?
Your B12 levels are likely a little on the higher side because of the supplementation. Check out my updated B12 video, I address this more directly in the most recent one.
Why go injections, when there's sublingual? No mention also of methyl being more absorbable than cyano b12 variant.
Came here to comment the same.
Confusing as just had a B112 level measured in the UK and i'm told it's above the normal range at 667ng/L, but see the US standard is measured it in pg/ml, so not sure how my level converts into this measurement and wonder if I should be concerned as it looks as though 640 is considered the top of the range here.
667 ng/l is 667 pg/ml. (Pico is 1000 less than nano, and milli is 1000 less than the unit.)
Perhaps you should learn what milli, micro, nano, pico stands for. That should be in basic education, but Google it.
@@larsnystrom6698 Thanks for info and take your point. Not very familiar with the term Pico. I realised with vit D, the UK optimum is 100, whereby in the US it's 50 as the goal, so half.
I have 152 and I live in Mississauga. I have many symptoms what you have described. Looking for a treatment. I have lots of weakness and headaches
That's my old stomping grounds!
Super biased suggestion - find a local ND with a men's health and burnout focus to explore options.
For Optimal Health, you must raise your Vitamin B12 Levels up to 590 pmol/L which is equal to 800 pg/mL. You can go up to 650 pmol/L according to LifeLabs in Canada. No more than that. Pay close attention to the Units. This is very important. You can convert the Units from pmol/L to pg/mL. For example 650 pmol/L is equal to approximately 882 pg/mL.
My B12 level is 240 but they tell me that’s normal. Have SOB numbness and tingling muscle weakness balance problems and tachycardia they treat the symptoms but never the cause. I don’t have Much of a stomach left on on supplements but they give me PPIs because my hiatal hernia. Now I have osteoporosis. They had to remove most of my stomach because my gastroparesis cause the longing of my stomach to have calcified food and it got necrotic. My MCV and MCH are very high but they say it’s normal.
That screams B12 insufficiency to me. Find a healthcare practitioner who can walk you through next steps!
@@drjmarr my primary doctor put me on monthly B12 injections. I am currently in the hospital recovering from a hiatal hernia with a fundoplication. I’m still
having symptoms of SOB and chest pain. My cardiologist increased my dose of diliazem. Hopefully my symptoms will improve. Had a HRCT of my lungs that showed scarring, ground glass opacities and inflammation from aspiration. I also had a endoscopy that showed the HH and esophagitis with food still in my stomach 12 hours after my last meal. The hernia was pinching off my stomach. I don’t know if the gastroparesis was also causing this. I hope I’m on the road to recovery. Thank you for your interest.
They call it in range, but to be honest it is not enough, very good Doctors say it should be atleast 700 .
I had H-pylori on PPI for years then had endoscopy found to have an ulcer and hiatal hernia.( took that post delivery of twins).
After the scope they did nothing said I had chronic gastritis.
I stopped eating bread and gluten and dont do PPI
But damage was done I am on B12 now a shot every 2 months.
But General Practitioners dont really understand the vitimins requirements.
Initially they were going to give me oral meds but all that does is give me heart burn.
My symptoms were much like yours so insist on them taking you seriously.
Once a month is too little you need 2xweek maybe even daily at first. You v cannot overdose. It's not toxic. @prepareahead8494
My B12 serum level is 1427... dangerous?
I eat mostly raw vegan. My b12 was close to zero three months ago. And MMA test showed about 10X higher than recomended level. After 3 months on 1000mcg tablets my B12 is 380 pmol/l. And MMA 0.3, slightly above range
You're still functionally insufficient in my books. If you are ok with it, I highly recommend a a series of B12 injections; you'll get those levels up much faster. Also be sure that you're being added for iron levels, getting enough protein! Cool to watch those numbers increase though - I hope you see improvements to your symptoms soon!
I’m in the states, and my recent Vitamin B-12 level is 292 pg/ml. The test says “standard range” is 232-1245 pg/ml. I’m a 56 year old male. Might this explain why I feel like crap most of the time? I am otherwise healthy. I exercise a lot, have an excellent diet and have relatively low-stress in my life.
It could! Do you consume red meat at all?
I have had tingling/ burning in both feet for about 8 weeks now. I got my B12 checked and it was 629. Can I rule out low B12 as a cause? By the way, I am not diabetic or pre-diabetic. The only thing that showed low on my blood test was calcium. It was .2 below the normal range.
Unlikely that B12 is the issue. Were you supplementing at the time, or just before the test though?
Hi..same iam experiencing burning ,pins and needles. My b12 is 1100
Hi..how are you now..same. i experience
This is very interesting. I have been experiencing neurological symptoms in one of my arms and overall headaches, tummy aches - IBS has gotten worse, mouth sores occasionally and overall anxiety. Have been going back and forth, everything seems to come back normal and lots of the bad stuff has been ruled out. I have to add that I am not vegetarian, I have a pretty balanced diet. Recently had had a blood test for B12 and whilst I’m still within range, I’m only slightly over the borderline. Limits are 197-770 and I’m just a slightly over 200. My doctor determined there is no deficiency but is it really enough? Should this be investigated further?
That's very likely what I would refer to as a functional insufficiency. Whether the lower B12 levels are due to the digestive issues, or vice versa, you're likely going to feel better with supplemental B12 or intramuscular injections. If you watch my follow up video on B12 it also talks about another test (MMA) which would be relevant here. Find someone to work with who has experience to see if supplementation or IM injections might be reasonable to try.
Please get the book, Could It Be B-12. Range 500 or so. Written by a Dr. and nurse.
@@maried5085 I'm always going to advocate more reading. I'm not familiar with this book though yet. What are the key points?
@@maried5085 I'll have to look into it!
Check your homocysteine levels.
Ideally it should be between 5 and 7 but up to 9 is acceptable.
A doctor talking about homocysteine once said "any double-digit number is dangerous to the patient's health."
Just got my blood work back. My level is 724 pmol/l. WBC and RBC are normal. Heamoglobin is a bit low at 114. Everything I read points to leukaemia and other horrible diseases. Would you consider this level alarming? I am very concerned.
Much more to look into an investigate, and a full medical history would be needed before drawing conclusions - have you had an iron panel and ferritin checked?
For Optimal Health, you must raise your Vitamin B12 Levels up to 590 pmol/L which is equal to 800 pg/mL. You can go up to 650 pmol/L according to LifeLabs in Canada. No more than that. Pay close attention to the Units. This is very important. You can convert the Units from pmol/L to pg/mL. For example 650 pmol/L is equal to approximately 882 pg/mL.
@@drjmarr when can i take The mma test? Must i stop with supplement?
I live in canada my dr has me on a oral supplement for 6 yrs now just got it tested and it was 750 now they say it to hi ?
Any thoughts
For Optimal Health, you must raise your Vitamin B12 Levels up to 590 pmol/L which is equal to 800 pg/mL. You can go up to 650 pmol/L according to LifeLabs in Canada. No more than that. Pay close attention to the units.... This is very important. You can convert the units from pmol/L to pg/mL. For example 650 pmol/L is equal to approximately 882 pg/mL. Your Vitamin B12 Levels are a little high, but you have nothing to worry about. It will come out through urine.... Drink lots of water. In the future, If your Vitamin B12 goes down, I suggest eating Beef Liver to increase your levels quickly and easily. There is no need to take supplements for years. That's too long. Good luck with everything. 🌻
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Nhs blood test score me as 312 and that was me supplementing with tabs myself. They won't give me any treatment, is this normal?
Uk range. I get numbness in hands when laying, tongue cracking. Poor focus concentration, extreme fatigue and exhaustion. Years ago i was always energetic, the opposite now. Had folic results of 212, range is 300 to 700.
What are the units?
@@drjmarr I will let u know next week when I'm back at gps
@@LisaKerryTravelAdventuresomprazole pain killers rennies gaviscone gabepentin statins etc cause b12 deficiency messes stomach lining up IF factor gets messed up go to pernicious anemia society uk it's an eye opener
I’ve had burning sensation in hands and feet for almost a year had a lot of tests done. When I got my folate tested it was on the borderline so I started taking folate but it didn’t seem to help with symptoms. The last blood test I had my everything was normal. My b12 was 275 ng they said that was normal. But I’ve stated b12 hoping it helps
275 is not normal
@@flossiewayakenani2919hello buddy in recently I did my b12 levels and Its 246 and I get a lot of b12 symptoms is that 246 a normal range I'm 19 year old male
I was not aware that there are different ranges for specific nutrients in different parts of the world! I thought the ranges were the same everywhere! If he thinks the B-12 ranges in Canada are weird, the U.S. ranges are around 210 to 1000 something.
For the US versus Canada (and most of thee rest of the world), it's a unit conversion issue. When you convert nmol/L to pg/ml the ranges are quite similar.
my level is 877 and on the report its written (877 high) is it too high? i eat like 8+ eggs everyday and lift weights.
It's probably a very normal level for you but a full medical history and comprehensive bloodwork would be needed to comment much further!
My B12 lab test say im at 1,877 should I be concerned? I do go gor b12 shots 2x a month
if you get shots there is no need to worry
Instead of a blood serum b12 test you must ghet a methylmelonic acid test instead. It is much more acurate.
I talk about MMA here: czcams.com/video/jSJQvIIDefM/video.htmlsi=5Ko4Mv-tBJdIIumK
I have been having symptoms similar to b12 deficiency. I have been taking PPI for the last year I’m not vegetarian or vegan but don’t consume dairy or a lot of meat (especially not red) and only consume eggs about once a week. Started taking a b12 one week ago and got a b12 test result of 581 just yesterday which seems odd it’s so high and I’m still having pain and tingling specifically in my lower extremities. I was told taking a b12 for one week wouldn’t affect my results. Any thoughts?
Really depends on dosage and form and your functional genetics, but it is possible a single week of supplementation could yield a result like this. There are also other reasons possible for peripheral neuropathies. Find a doc you feel comfortable with to explore and rule in/out.
I have celiac disease. Having all the symptoms you have mentioned . B12 is 240 but both my family Dr and neurologist have said that is normal. What do you think?
Coeliac disease is the main cause of low B12, so it doesn't surprise me that your level of 240 is indeed low. In my assessment the normal range should be 650 - 1000, so yours is definitely too low. Ask your GP for two blood tests, one for antibodies to Intrinsic Factor and one for antibodies to Parietal Cells. If either of these is positive (i.e you have antibodies to one or other or both of these) you have Pernicious Anaemia. I assume you are already off all cereal grains, but if not, get off them all, that includes oats. All oats, without exception, contain gluten, even if marketed under the 'gluten free' section. Gluten causes major problems in the gut, as well as other tissues, so nutrients cannot be absorbed, AND they can trigger antibodies to the stomach cell type I mentioned above (parietal cells) and these produce Intrinsic Factor, without which you cannot transport B12 further into the gut where I can be absorbed. Antibodies to Intrinsic Factor mean it is destroyed as soon as it is produced, hence, low B12.
Good luck.
I would definitely expect you'd feel a lot better with higher levels. Find a healthcare practitioner who can walk you through next steps!
Good morning dr my b 12 level is 322pg/ml should i take supplemnts
YES. B12 METHYLCOBALAMIN
Mostly likely would not be harmful and is likely to be helpful. Note: not everyone needs methylated B12 - and there can be harm done taking too much methylated B-vitamins if you don't need it!
My B12 level is a hair over the minimum range, yet my PCP didn't suggest I take supplements.
So I decided to do it, on my own. It's water soluble, like vitamin C...so it's hard to take too much..
By the way, I am looking for a new PCP.
For sure, make sure you find a licensed and experienced practitioner when it comes to choosing to use any supplements or forms of medicines!
Excellent and informative video. Thank you
Glad it was helpful!
My levels were deficient eg 157 and 161. They are now 268.
How did you go about increasing them? What units are those in?
@@drjmarr The last reading was actually 278 ng/L. (range 187.0 - 883.0) I've taken B12 supplements and decreased Lansoprozole 30 mg down to 15 mg daily under guidance from the surgery pharmacist. I used to be vegetarian but now eat some meat.
If someone is deficient in B12, does that mean they could also be deficient in other B vitamins? Why the "hype" on B12 specifically it seems?
Good question. B12 is a bigger issue for more people than other B-vitmamins because its mechanism for absorption is dependent on intrinsic factor, for which production is negatively impacted by digestive function. B12 is also more of an issue now as people trend toward more of a plant-based diet, which tend to be deficient in this particular vitamin. On top of that we have learned in the last few years that B12 absorption and metabolism are affected by SNPs in genes like FUT2 and TCN2, and people's independent and unique needs vary with SNPSs in methylation genes like MTHFR associated with homocysteine metabolism.
In supplement form, B-vitamins should generally be taken as a complex (ie all together), but usually B12 insufficiency is an independent issue from other B-vitamins.
Thank you for replying!@@drjmarr
Subscribed! 🎉
You are awesome!!!
Wow, CZcams is getting better at recommending videos.
Hopefully it means more people are putting out good content! What should I do my next video on?
@@drjmarr
I think vitimin C I get bleeding gums and I eat mostly meat. I have had iron deficiency on and off through most of my life
I am on B12 shot every 2 month. I dont absorbe orally so I dont know how I am not absorbing Vit c which may be to do with bleed gums.
So Vit C for me .
I found your video very helpful.
Mine is 2500 as of today(naturally). Thoughts?
Yes, mine is 2300. My doctor says he likes seeing high vs low. No concerns.
Have you been supplementing or received injections within 5 weeks before this test result?
I’ve heard of ppl going to get a B12 shot and DREAD it. Why is that?
It should feel like absolutely nothing. No pain, no big wave of anything. Gently the energy levels should just lift, and feel more right.
B12 shots sting like hell! I need a monthly shot but will occasionally put it off a bit if I'm feeling wimpy....
The only reason a B12 intramuscular injection should hurt is if the person administering it is either being mean, or they're poorly trained. I get told by other docs and nurses that I give a "great IM injection", and I always think to myself "wtf are other people doing!?".. B12 injections should be close to painless. Sometimes a very mild ache as the fluid is injected if it's cold coming out of the fridge. This is assuming it's cyanocobalamin or methylcobalamin. Hydroxocobalamin can sting though.
@@drjmarrI think it may depend on the person who's having it. I'm ok with hydroxo, no pain whatsoever
Steak! Steak! Steak! Steak!
Yummmmm. Medium rare ribeye please
So I’m in Canada. My level is over 1400 no supplementing…
Get it rechecked. It's certainly on the high side, but not so high that I'd be concerned about malignancies. Check it again though.
I'm in agreement. @afifahhamilton8843 what's the standard range for B12 in the UK?
My B12 is almost 800, I was concerned it's too high, I guess there is nothing to worry about? 🤔
Are you supplementing in any form?
@drjmarr Hi Dr.J, Thanks for asking. I take regular multivitamins most days - B12 in the current one I'm taking is 8.6µg. Also, my diet would be quite high in animal products, and I would regularly consume red wine (few glasses a week). From my research I understand that all this could have an impact? Would substituting some animal products with plant based and cutting down on red wine bring it down? And of course, I need to stop supplementing for now.
@@mariolastepaniuk4957 I don't have any concern with your B12 levels. It's unlikely you need to make changes targeting lower levels. Your multivitamin B12 dosage is really low, but if you've been taking it regularly and for a long time, it's definitely feasible that it's elevated your blood levels on your test.
@drjmarr Thank you, I happened to see my doctor for something else today, and she said exactly the same, which is reassuring. Thanks again, I much appreciate your insight.
@@mariolastepaniuk4957 it's a pleasure!!
Please define what do you mean by "unit"?
In Canada we use pmol/L for reporting B12.
Mine was 177 and my doctor's said it was fine 😢
Regardless of units, this is quite low in my opinion. Do you consume animal meats?
That's too low....Dangerously low.
For Optimal Health, you must raise your Vitamin B12 Levels up to 590 pmol/L which is equal to 800 pg/mL. You can go up to 650 pmol/L according to LifeLabs in Canada. No more than that. Pay close attention to the Units. This is very important. You can convert the Units from pmol/L to pg/mL. For example 650 pmol/L is equal to approximately 882 pg/mL.
@@frenchenglishandspanishimm8749 I felt it. I really was fighting to get out of bed.
@@frenchenglishandspanishimm8749 thank you for sharing. I have been supplementing with B12 for a while and folate, but I need a test to see if my levels are going up. It's just so difficult when the Doctor says it is fine.
You giving values for B12 without giving any units makes it useless for me.
From INDIA, Hey Doc, my level on 14th April 2024 came to be 288 (211-911 range), i had 1500 mcg x 4 injection in quantity and then 1500 mcg tablet x 15 days quantity that's all treatment... even after almost 2 months Now still have burning sensation in legs yes dizziness is slight improved (slightly). Need to know if that treatment is okay also do i need to consult a neurologist or general physio is ok. Will highly appreciate your reply.
There are other mechanisms for your symptoms that need to be ruled out beyond just B12 insufficiency. Definitely consult your licensed and experienced HCP and consider more comprehensive workup and bloodwork.
372. Doc put me on 1,000mcg daily.
Very reasonable. You'd be more likely to notice improvement quickly with injections though
My vitamin B12 is 337 after my blood test. Is that normal or not?
In Canada it's considered normal as in within normal limits, but that doesn't mean that it's optimal for your personal genetic makeup.
My B12 is SO high. DONT know why. (2000). I can sleep for 24 hrs daily
Are you supplementing?
@@drjmarr zero no
Protein is not difficult to get from plantbased foods go beans and lentils. And regarding B12 and if you are over 60 years of age you should supplement 1000 ug per day. Multivitamins is not to be recommended if you eat good plantbased foods.
It's substantially more difficult to because there's just less protein and lower protein efficiency (esp. beans and lentils) and lower amino acid diversity in plant proteins. Period. Not debatable. And B12. And iron. It's not impossible to eat a high protein plants-only diet, it's just very difficult for most people.
Plant based lol
What are you trying to say here?
@@drjmarr plant based sucks
@@intenttoinjure nah, plant-based just gets taken to the extreme. Plant-based doesn't mean plants only!
Simple solutions for simple minded . Google college light wisdom for bored housewives and couch potatoes . Coming from a Dr !
I have no idea what you're trying to say with this comment?
You need to read and study The China Study! Typical MD, knows little about nutritional science! Protein: do you know of anyone who has died of a protein deficiency?
Are you talking about me, or criticizing Colin Campbell on his China Study? It's basically the OG misinformation that has led to strict and overt veganism.
Despite injections monthly my b12 won't go up. It stays the same I have pernicious anaemia. The only thing that helps is eating raw red meat and raw organ meat. I crave raw meat day and night, the bloodier the better. I have even drank fresh goat blood and that stopped the fatigue for around 3 days. All i think of is bloody meat, my Dr is useless NHS.
If you truly have pernicious anaemia, this is an autoimmune condition - injections should still help, and may be required ongoing. But most doctors erroneously use the term "pernicious anaemia" with B12 deficiency (or insufficiency).