Latest news with #vitaminB12
Vogue
5 days ago
- Health
- Vogue
Thorne Basic Nutrients Supplement Review: One Vogue Writer Tests it for Six Weeks
Before I began taking the Thorne Basic Nutrients supplement in earnest, multivitamins represented little more than a childhood habit that graduated with me into adulthood. The chalky, fruit-flavored Flintstone chewables I consumed daily formed the basis of a daily ritual; a morning fixture doled out alongside my breakfast cereal. At some point, these tablets evolved into any gummy labeled 'for women,' usually in pretty pastel packaging, purchased at a premium thanks to the invisible pink tax. But even with consistent multivitamin intake, a halfway-decent diet, and a modest commitment to movement, I couldn't shake a persistent fatigue that clung to me day in and day out. A recent visit to my healthcare provider (and several vials of blood later) revealed the culprit: a vitamin B12 deficiency, which I developed from being a vegetarian for nearly two decades. It was a prognosis my doctor ensured could be remedied by a multivitamin potent enough to cover all the essentials, ultimately saving me from the exhausting game of pill Tetris. My initial question was how can a simple multivitamin improve my chronic symptoms? 'Different vitamin and mineral deficiencies can present in different ways,' registered dietitian nutritionist Sammi Haber Brondo explains. 'In general, a B12 deficiency might cause symptoms like fatigue, pale skin, dizziness, brain fog, or changes in mood,' Brondo says. I was familiar with all these symptoms, having experienced them in varying degrees. 'After seeing your doctor and getting bloodwork done, a regular supplement not only helps to improve these symptoms, but can also fill in any gaps in your diet from other vitamins or minerals.' And so, per my doctor's guidance, I gave Thorne's powerhouse daily supplement a try. Saying it worked is an understatement. Below, everything you need to know about the multivitamin, and what happened when I took it consistently for six weeks. Thorne Basic Nutrients 2/Day Why We Love It : Thorne supplements are no-fuss yet effective; and its Basic Nutrients offering is proof. Packed to the brim with all the essential vitamins and minerals a person could need, just two capsules a day (preferably taken with breakfast) provides a solid nutritional foundation without the hassle of juggling multiple supplements. Think: fewer pills to remember to take amidst your already busy day. Plus, the high-quality formula is free from fish oils, common allergens, unnecessary fillers and additives, making it a great option for many—especially those with sensitivities or dietary restrictions. Even more impressive is how bioavailable the ingredients are, making them super absorbable. With consistent use, many people report a boost in energy, improved focus, and a more balanced mood. While no multivitamin and mineral supplement is a miracle cure, this potent pick is a smart, steady step toward feeling like your most vibrant, clear-headed self. : Thorne supplements are no-fuss yet effective; and its Basic Nutrients offering is proof. Packed to the brim with all the essential vitamins and minerals a person could need, just two capsules a day (preferably taken with breakfast) provides a solid nutritional foundation without the hassle of juggling multiple supplements. Think: fewer pills to remember to take amidst your already busy day. Plus, the high-quality formula is free from fish oils, common allergens, unnecessary fillers and additives, making it a great option for many—especially those with sensitivities or dietary restrictions. Even more impressive is how bioavailable the ingredients are, making them super absorbable. With consistent use, many people report a boost in energy, improved focus, and a more balanced mood. While no multivitamin and mineral supplement is a miracle cure, this potent pick is a smart, steady step toward feeling like your most vibrant, clear-headed self. Key Ingredients : Vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E (gamma tocopherol), vitamin D3, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3 (niacinamide), vitamin B5, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin K1, vitamin K2, zinc bisglycinate, chromium, glycinate mineral blend, lutein, magnesium bisglycinate, boron, amino acid complex : Vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E (gamma tocopherol), vitamin D3, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3 (niacinamide), vitamin B5, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin K1, vitamin K2, zinc bisglycinate, chromium, glycinate mineral blend, lutein, magnesium bisglycinate, boron, amino acid complex Best For : A potent daily supplement that provides key nutrients, bolstering overall wellness and body function. : A potent daily supplement that provides key nutrients, bolstering overall wellness and body function. More To Know : NSF certified, gluten-free, soy-free : NSF certified, gluten-free, soy-free Servings: 30 (two pills per serving) What are the benefits of Thorne's Basic Nutrients Supplement? Rather than stacking your supplement routine with a dizzying array of capsules, Thorne's all-in-one pick is formulated to address a wide spectrum of nutritional needs. Yes, in a perfect world, we'd all get our nutrients from a vibrant, varied diet. But let's be honest: who among us is truly clocking five servings of fruits and vegetables every single day? (And if you are—honestly, hats off to you.)
The Sun
20-07-2025
- Health
- The Sun
Are you TATT and always losing your keys? The 4p supplement that could ‘cure' you – and 16 signs to watch for
MUSCLE weakness and fatigue. Forgetfulness and mouth ulcers. Blurred vision and balance issues. It can be easy to blame these vague, seemingly harmless symptoms on a hangover, stress or simply staring at a screen for too long. But they could be signs of a dangerous vitamin deficiency. 2 In the short-term, they may simply worsen slightly, or develop into memory loss, depression and confusion. You might find you struggle to concentrate at work, or you're always misplacing your keys. But if left untreated for several years, it can lead to permanent nerve damage, infertility and an increased risk of stomach cancer and dementia. Here, experts reveal why vitamin B12 is so vital for our health, how to spot you might need more of it, and crucially, the easiest ways to get your levels back up to where they should be. WHY IS IT SO IMPORTANT? 'IF you often feel unusually tired or forgetful, you might be low in vitamin B12,' Dr Naomi Newman-Beinart, nutritionist and chartered psychologist, tells Sun Health. 'This essential nutrient, that your body cannot make, plays a huge role in keeping our energy levels up, supporting our nervous system, and helping to make red blood cells. 'Unlike some other vitamins, B12 isn't something your body makes naturally, so we have to get it from our diet or, if necessary, a supplement. 'And while many of us are getting enough, there's a growing number of people in the UK who aren't, leading some experts to call B12 deficiency a 'silent pandemic'. 'I agree with this 100 per cent. 'Symptoms of B12 deficiency are often vague or mistaken for other things (like stress or aging), so some people may go undiagnosed for years or their symptoms may be assumed to be a result of different deficiencies or ailments.' To supplement or not- The top 10 vitamins and minerals that are vital for health - and the best sources for each one SIGNS YOU MIGHT BE DEFICIENT IT'S not known exactly how many people in the UK are deficient, but studies suggest between five and 10 per cent of the population isn't getting enough B12. This rises to 20 per cent in over-60s. 'This number is also likely to be higher among older adults and vegans,' Dr Newman-Beinart says. So how do you know if you're deficient? The best way is to get your levels checked at your GP surgery or local pharmacy. Doctors will usually recommend a blood test if you display any of the telltale symptoms. Dr Newman-Beinart says: 'Some of the key signs of B12 deficiency include fatigue, difficulty concentrating, mouth ulcers, a sore tongue, pins and needles in hands and feet, low mood, muscle weakness, and vision changes. 'These signs should be taken seriously and the best way to identify a deficiency is via a blood test with your GP.' According to the NHS, the full list of potential signs of a B12 deficiency includes: Rapid breathing or shortness of breath Headaches Indigestion Loss of appetite Palpitations Problems with your vision Feeling weak or tired Diarrhoea A sore or red tongue, sometimes with mouth ulcers Problems with memory, understanding and judgement (cognitive changes) Numbness Muscle weakness Psychological problems (mild depression, anxiety, confusion, dementia) Problems with balance and coordination Pins and needles Incontinence HOW MUCH DO WE NEED? ADULTS in the UK should get 1.5mcg of vitamin B12 per day, according to NHS guidelines. 'Although a varied and balanced diet should provide much of your vitamin and mineral intake, many people struggle to get the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for a number of reasons,' Dr Newman-Beinart says. 'This includes increasing age, eating a poor or limited diet, malabsorption due to drinking too much alcohol or gut problems (like coeliac or Crohn's disease), and having certain medical conditions or medications. 'Vegans are the most obvious group who would also be at risk of deficiency and would need to ensure that they eat fortified foods or take a supplement.' THE BEST NATURAL SOURCES OF B12 YOU can get some B12 from animal products, such as meat, fish, and dairy. 'Good courses of B12 include beef, chicken, eggs, salmon, sardines and milk,' Dr Newman-Beinart (@drnaomib) says. 'You will also find B12 in fortified foods like breakfast cereals and non-dairy milks, plus in vegan foods like nori and nutritional yeast.' Who is most at risk? ANYONE who doesn't hit the target B vitamin intake is at risk of complications - such as extreme tiredness, depression, birth defects, dementia and even cancer. But some people are more prone than others, according to Dr Harry Jarrett, head of science and research at supplement brand Heights. He says: 'The body cannot produce these fundamental nutrients and therefore, the main reason deficiencies arise is through inadequate intake from the diet or lack of supplementation. 'The primary food sources are animal and dairy products, so people unable to consume these foods, like those who are lactose intolerant or vegan, will have a much lower intake, leading to a greater risk of deficiency. 'Evidence also suggests that certain conditions may increase your risk, including alcoholism, diabetes and anorexia. 'However, a large proportion of the UK population are deficient, regardless of age and health status, and thus the deficiency pandemic is a population-wide problem.' HOW TO CHOOSE A B12 SUPPLEMENT BUT sometimes even eating these foods isn't enough. 'Since the body can't make B12, I recommend a good quality supplement,' Dr Newman-Beinart says. There are many on the market, from tablets to mouth sprays. For example: Boots Vitamin B12 180 Tablets (Boots, £7.65 for 180 tablets - or 4p each) Zooki Liposomal Vitamin B12 2500mcg Strawberry Flavour Liquid Sachets (Holland&Barrett, £2.49 for one) Superdrug Energy Vitamin B12 10ug (Superdrug, £2.99 for 60 tablets - or 5p each) BetterYou Boost Vitamin B12 Oral Spray (Tesco, £12.00 for 48 doses - or 25p per spray) Vitamin B12 1% Methylcobalamin Powder (Bulk Supplements, £15.00 for 50g - or 1p per serving) The best way to correct a serious deficiency is through B12 injections, which are available through your GP. POTENTIAL COMPLICATIONS 'VERY concerning' NHS figures show anaemia caused by vitamin B12 or B9 (folate) led to 3,490 admissions in 2023/24 - up 400 per cent from 1998/99. Dr Newman-Beinart says: 'If left untreated, B12 deficiency symptoms can become more serious, especially when it comes to nerve damage and cognitive health. 'If the body doesn't have enough B12 over time, it can lead to serious complications like permanent nerve damage, memory loss, and even problems with heart health. 'In older adults, deficiency has also been linked to an increased risk of dementia, which is why early detection and treatment are so important. 'In fact, science shows that vitamin B12 can improve brain function in older people with vitamin B12 deficiency whether they have dementia or not so clearly B12 is vital for supporting a healthy brain.'
CNET
22-06-2025
- Health
- CNET
Vitamin B12 Benefits, Potential Risks and If You're Getting Enough
When it comes to vitamins, most people focus on the most common ones, like vitamin A, C or D. Vitamin B12 is overlooked, though it shouldn't be because it helps produce vital red blood cells and boost energy levels. Unlike other nutrients, our bodies can't make vitamin B12 on their own. A balanced diet including meat, eggs and fish can usually fulfill all of your B12 needs. However, your diet or conditions like Crohn's disease might mean that your body needs a little extra help getting enough B12. This is the ultimate guide on the importance of vitamin B12, what happens if you don't get enough and key information on supplementation. What is vitamin B12? Vitamin B12 contains cobalt, hence its name, cobalamin. It's a water soluble vitamin your body uses to create red blood cells and DNA. It also helps develop your central nervous system. Your central nervous system is like your body's mail delivery system, carrying messages from your nerves to your brain, where your brain responds. Moreover, the vitamin helps your hair, nails and skin remain healthy. You can find B12 in four chemical compounds: methylcobalamin, hydroxocobalamin, adenosylcobalamin and cyanocobalamin. Methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin are in meat and dairy products. You might have to take a vitamin B12 supplement to avoid a B12 deficiency if you're a vegan or vegetarian. Cyanocobalamin is the synthetic form of vitamin B12, broken down into methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin in supplements. Meanwhile, if you have a vitamin B12 deficiency, you might require a shot or IV drip. This is where hydroxocobalamin comes into play. It is a manufactured version of the vitamin used to treat deficiencies. Vitamin B12 benefits Taking healthy doses of vitamin B12 can benefit your body in the following ways: 1. Supports red blood cell formation Your body needs red blood cells to make DNA. Your body loses 1% of your oldest red blood cells daily. Vitamin B12 with vitamin B9 (folate) helps your body replenish the red blood cells you lost. Without a healthy dose of regular vitamin B12, you can become anemic. 2. Boosts energy levels Some energy drinks use vitamin B12 to give you a pep in your step. However, they only work well if you have a vitamin B-12 deficiency. When this happens, you might experience fatigue, tiredness and become cranky. Proper vitamin B12 levels from food or supplements can give your body the perk to tackle your tasks. 3. Supports nerve health Taking regular doses can help your nervous system. Vitamin B12 has a rep for being a neurotropic vitamin for its ability to heal damaged nerve cells. When you take the vitamin, it contains myelin. Myelin is a sheath surrounding nerve fibers, allowing for better communication between them and the brain. It is why some of the problems with vitamin B12 deficiencies include numb toes or fingers, muscle weakness and problems with coordination. Juan Gaertner/Science4. Improves mood and cognitive function Vitamin B12 helps play a role in the brain, producing chemicals that impact your mood. While studies show low vitamin levels can lead to depression, they can't determine if regulated vitamin levels boost mood or improve cognitive function. Potential risks of vitamin B12 deficiency When your body doesn't receive enough vitamin B12, you could be susceptible to the following medical conditions: 1. Anemia and related symptoms When your body doesn't receive enough vitamin B12, it slows the growth of red blood cells. A cumulative loss of red blood cells can result in vitamin B12 deficiency anemia. With it, you can experience muscle weakness and fatigue. 2. Neurological issues A lack of vitamin B12 in your body could result in neurological issues. Some of the symptoms include: Memory loss Vision problems Ataxia, a condition where you lose physical coordination Damage to the central nervous system, especially in your legs Your body needs vitamin B12 to help support your central nervous system. Without it, your nerves might have trouble sending signals to your brain, particularly in your fingers or toes. Over time, it could lead to nerve damage if left untreated. 3. Long-term health risks Many symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiencies could mimic other illnesses, making it hard to identify. If left untreated it could lead to more serious health issues, which can increase in severity quickly. Some of the top risks include a decline in cognitive function. More specifically, memory loss or trouble reasoning can occur. It could also result in strange sensations like tingling in your arms or feet or a swollen tongue. If you notice these symptoms, consult your doctor on root causes. Who should consider vitamin B12 supplements? Here are a few groups who should consider vitamin B12 supplements: Vegans and vegetarians : You'll find vitamin B12 in fish, poultry and other meats. The only issue is if your diet restricts you from consuming these items, you need another source of vitamin B12. You can find these in fortified foods such as breakfast cereals or dairy products. : You'll find vitamin B12 in fish, poultry and other meats. The only issue is if your diet restricts you from consuming these items, you need another source of vitamin B12. You can find these in fortified foods such as breakfast cereals or dairy products. Older adults : As you age, your stomach acid declines, making it more difficult for your body to absorb vitamin B12 from foods. It is wise to consider a supplement if your levels are low. : As you age, your stomach acid declines, making it more difficult for your body to absorb vitamin B12 from foods. It is wise to consider a supplement if your levels are low. Individuals with certain medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as celiac disease, pernicious anemia and Crohn's disease, make it difficult for your body to absorb vitamin B12. In each of these instances, your doctor might recommend a shot or IV drip. Best vitamin B12 food sources You can find vitamin B12 in the following sources: Animal-based sources: Meat, chicken, fish, clams, salmon, sardines, tuna, trout and dairy products all contain vitamin B12. Some organ meats, such as kidney and liver, are also high in vitamin B12. Plant-based sources: Vegans and vegetarians who can't source their vitamins from meat can consume seaweed or nutritional yeast. Nutritional yeast is good as a popcorn topping or sprinkle it onto tofu or other plant-based foods. Fortified foods: Manufacturers add vitamins to some foods to make it more nutritious. Fortified breakfast cereals, such as one cup of Malt-O-Meal Raisin Bran, contain more than 60% of your daily allotment of vitamin B12. ScienceB12 injections vs. B12 supplements There are many factors at play when considering injections and dietary supplements. On the supplement front, it's imperative to consider any medical conditions that might impede your body's ability to absorb it. If you have Crohn's disease, you want a shot instead because it absorbs into your bloodstream, making it a more effective absorption method. However, when considering shots, you'll want to consider a few things. One, they'll be more expensive than vitamin B12 supplements. They can also cause side effects, such as skin rashes, headaches, itching, diarrhea and nausea. Meanwhile, vitamin supplements are more cost-effective if you don't have a medical condition where you'll need help with absorption. However, refrain from taking them before speaking with your doctor if you're on folic acid supplements or if you have sensitivities to cobalt. Ultimately, your doctor can help you determine the best course of action. Expect to take a blood test to check your vitamin B12 levels before adding a supplement or shot. Vitamin B12 dosing and absorption tips One of the best ways to maximize absorption is through proper gut health. Before trying vitamin supplements, it's important that you don't experience regular diarrhea, constipation or other issues, which can prevent your body from absorbing the vitamin well. If your doctor is OK with you taking a supplement, follow the instructions on the label. The daily recommended dose of vitamin B12 is 2.4 micrograms. If you eat a well-balanced diet full of chicken, seafood or eggs, you'll receive this amount through your diet. If you need a vitamin B12 supplement, be aware of other nutrients that can lessen its effectiveness. Vitamin C supplements have the opposite effect, lowering the vitamin B12 in your body. Having a medical professional weigh in before taking a supplement or shot helps you cover all your bases and avoid any drug or nutrient interactions. B12 Vitamin FAQ What are the symptoms of a B12 deficiency? The symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency vary, though one of the most common is feeling very tired or weak, nausea, loss of appetite and weight loss. Some people may also experience cognitive problems, a yellowish tint to their skin or develop sores on their mouth or tongue. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to see your doctor. What are some good sources of vitamin B12? You can make sure you're getting enough vitamin B12 by packing your diet with nutrient-rich foods. The foods that include vitamin B12 include, but are not limited to: Beef Eggs Fortified cereal Fish like tuna, trout or salmon Milk and other dairy products like yogurt and cheese Fortified nondairy milk Clams If you have dietary restrictions, your doctor may recommend that you take vitamin B12 supplements to ensure you're getting enough.
Washington Post
02-06-2025
- General
- Washington Post
What to know about nerve pain and tingling hands and feet
Consumer Reports has no financial relationship with any advertisers on this site. Have you experienced pain or tingling in your hands or feet? Those are signs of possible neuropathy, 'a general term for nerve dysfunction in your limbs,' says Eva Feldman, a professor of neurology at the University of Michigan Medical School in Ann Arbor. The likelihood of neuropathy appears to increase with age. That's partly because the number of nerve cells in your body declines over the years, and those that remain become less functional. And 'if they are damaged by injury or an underlying medical condition, they struggle more to recover,' says Anne Louise Oaklander, an associate professor of neurology at Harvard Medical School. Chronic conditions such as diabetes, as well as autoimmune disease and treatments such as some kinds of chemotherapy, can cause neuropathy, too, Oaklander says. Long-term untreated hypothyroidism, kidney disease and obesity also can increase the risk, according to the Mayo Clinic. Another potential cause is vitamin B12 deficiency, which is thought to affect at least 20 percent of adults over age 60, says Kunal Desai, an assistant professor of neurology at the Yale School of Medicine in New Haven, Connecticut. Here's what to do if you think you have neuropathy. Tingling or painful sensations in your hands and/or feet are the main symptoms. 'Patients often describe it as feeling like ants crawling on their feet, or even as prickling or burning,' Feldman says. Another red flag is numbness in your hands or feet that leaves you feeling unsteady. If you have any of the above, call your doctor right away. That's especially important if you have a chronic condition such as Type 2 diabetes or you're being treated with certain chemotherapy drugs. Your primary care practitioner will examine you, including the skin on your hands and feet, to look for fissures or cracks. They'll test your reflexes and might use a tuning fork in the area to see whether you can feel the vibration or prick you with a pin to see whether you feel pain. They might check the strength in your hands and feet, as well. If any results are abnormal, you'll probably have tests of your nerves for confirmation and, if those results are abnormal, blood tests to check for contributing conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, Oaklander says. If the neuropathy is on only one side or is worse on one side, Feldman says, you'll need to see a neurologist to rule out more serious conditions such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. How your neuropathy is treated usually depends on the cause, Feldman says. If it's Type 2 diabetes, exercise and weight loss, if needed, can improve symptoms, according to a 2022 review in the journal Lancet Neurology. Neuropathy due to an autoimmune disorder, hypothyroidism or a vitamin B12 deficiency often eases once the underlying condition is corrected. If it's caused by chemotherapy, your doctor may change your regimen or advise a treatment break. If those steps aren't enough, medication may help. The American Academy of Neurology advises trying tricyclic antidepressants like amitriptyline, serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors such as duloxetine (Cymbalta) and venlafaxine (Effexor ER) or gabapentinoids like gabapentin (Neurontin and others). A topical prescription capsaicin patch helps, but it can cause a rash or burning sensation. If you have foot neuropathy, you should see a podiatrist several times a year to have your feet checked for sores, ulcers and signs of infection. You should also examine your feet daily. And if you're 50 or older, experts say to make sure to get Shingrix, the two-dose shingles vaccine. Shingles can cause a painful condition called postherpetic neuralgia, which has symptoms similar to neuropathy, Feldman says. Shingrix has been found to be more than 90 percent effective at preventing it in people who get shingles. Consumer Reports is an independent, nonprofit organization that works side by side with consumers to create a fairer, safer and healthier world. CR does not endorse products or services and does not accept advertising. Read more at
