Fatigue, lack of focus and concentration, memory loss, depression, anxiety, behavioral disorders and ADHD are all very common symptoms that I see in patients.
After helping many improve their health, energy and brain function over the years, I have found some common points that seem to be most helpful.
For one, vitamin deficiencies seem to be rampant in both adults and children. Patients come in without having any prior labs, or the tests from their doctor or pediatrician are very basic and incomplete.
So when ordering lab work, I find it extremely important to check, among other things, Vitamin B12, Folic Acid, Ferritin (stored Iron), RBC Magnesium and Vitamin D levels.
Symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency include:
- fatigue
- brain fog
- lack of focus and concentration
- memory problems
- mood swings
- lack of motivation & apathy
- insomnia
- muscle weakness
- numbness and tingling
- depression & anxiety
- dementia
- hyperactivity
- psychosis
- behavioral disorders
- tremors… the list goes on and on.
It’s very rare that someone will bring in a blood test from their doctor that ever tests Vitamin B12. If they do run a test, the lab normal range is typically 200 to 1100. So if you are at 201 that’s considered “normal.”
But you can have severe symptoms and an actual deficiency at levels under 500. Labs in Japan actually have this as their lower level.
Not too long ago, a 20-year-old college student came in with lack of concentration, fatigue, tremors and shakiness in her hands. I ordered lab testing and her vitamin B12 level was 237. She was soon better after following my recommendations which included a sublingual B12 supplement.
There is a big difference between “normal” and optimal levels of vitamin B12, which depend on many factors. But I would certainly recommend staying over 600 pg/ml.
Once we identify low levels, we use a sublingual product called B12 Supreme that I found to be extremely effective. Be aware that there is a vast difference in quality and absorption between brands and types of B12. Some are much better than others.
There is rarely a need for B12 shots, as I have found and studies also show that sublingual B12 is just as effective, if not more than B12 shots. Click here for a highly absorbable, bioavailable B12 that I have had great result with.
I would not suggest just going out and loading up on B12 unless you actually need it, as it may cover up some other issue that you are unaware of.
Look for upcoming emails for more information on how to improve your energy, brain function and overall health.
If you have any questions or would like you or a family member’s B12 level checked, email us at info@nmcwellness.com or call us at 561-627-5800. We would be happy to help.
Yours for Optimal Health,
Dr. Tom Rofrano