While some claim that vitamin B12 injections can help with weight loss, experts do not recommend it. They can cause side effects and, in some cases, allergic reactions.
Obese people have lower levels of vitamin B12 than average weight people, according to a 2019 study. However, vitamins have not been proven to help people lose weight.
Although vitamin B12 injections are necessary for some people who cannot otherwise absorb the vitamin, vitamin B12 injections come with certain risks and side effects. Some risks can be serious, such as fluid buildup in the lungs or blood clots.
B12 is a water-soluble vitamin found in some foods. It is available as an oral dietary supplement in tablet form, or a doctor may prescribe it as an injection. Some people may need B12 supplements because the body cannot produce B12.
Compounds containing B12 are also known as cobalamins. Two common forms include cyanocobalamin and hydroxycobalamin.
Doctors often treat vitamin B12 deficiency with B12 injections. One cause of B12 deficiency is pernicious anemia, which results in a decrease in red blood cells when the intestines cannot absorb enough vitamin B12.
The health worker injects the vaccine into the muscle, bypassing the intestines. Thus, the body gets what it needs.
A 2019 study noted an inverse relationship between obesity and low vitamin B12 levels. This means that obese people tend to have lower levels than people of moderate weight.
However, the authors of the study emphasize that this does not mean that injections help people lose weight, as there is no evidence of a causal relationship. They were unable to determine whether obesity reduces vitamin B12 levels or whether low vitamin B12 levels predispose people to obesity.
Interpreting the results of such studies, Pernicious Anemia Relief (PAR) noted that obesity may be the result of the habits of vitamin B12 deficient patients or their comorbidities. Conversely, vitamin B12 deficiency can affect metabolism, which can lead to obesity.
PAR recommends that vitamin B12 injections be given only to people who are deficient in vitamin B12 and are unable to absorb vitamins by mouth.
B12 injections are not required for weight loss. For most people, a balanced diet provides the nutrients needed for good health, including vitamin B12.
However, people with a B12 deficiency may not be able to absorb enough of the vitamin from their diet. When this happens, they may need vitamin B12 supplements or injections.
Those who are obese or concerned about their weight may want to see a doctor. They can provide advice on how to reach a moderate weight in a healthy and sustainable way.
In addition, individuals interested in vitamin B12 should consult their physician before taking oral supplements. If they think they may have a B12 deficiency, a blood test can be done to find out.
Experts do not recommend B12 injections for weight loss. Some studies show that obese people have lower levels of vitamin B12. However, researchers do not know if the consequences of obesity lead to lower vitamin B12 levels, or if lower vitamin B12 levels could be a factor in obesity.
B12 injections can cause side effects, some of which are serious. Most people who eat a balanced diet get enough vitamin B12, but doctors may give injections to people who cannot absorb vitamin B12.
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