b12 supplement-is it necessary?

April 5, 2001

dear people in body-mind group:

i'de like to have your advice please:

last blood test results showed that i have severe deficiency of vitamin

b12 (vegeterianism) and iron. the results of vit b12 were 100 while the

normal range should be 200-1000,

one doctor told me to ignore the numbers since he knows i feel and function

well, and i don't suffer from the deficiency symptoms like: fatigue

forgetfulness etc.

the philosophy here is that if you feel good and healthy - do not interfere

with your biochemistry ! the body is much smarter than the lab results or

" normal ranges as written in books,

the allophatic doctor,on the other hand called me and said i must take the

supplements of both iron and vit b12 because it may lead to neurological

problems,

(he didn't try to frighten or panic. this is really what he believes. he is

a wonderful person that was raised to go according the " book " . )

whom should i listen to?

what is your feeling about such dillemas.

I just wanted to add that i am very much aware to my body and i do not adapt

simply to

changes in food: my digestion system is not tolerant to changes even in

small quantities , even if the new food is considered " healthy " ... - and

from previous experience - i do not react good to nutritional supplements -

even if they come from respected companies.

i'de love to learn from your knoledge or experience in this matter.

thank you

Anat

April 5, 2001

Dear Anat;

You seem to be quite in tune with your body and its needs. Since you feel

well, yet your tests show that some nutrients could be supplemented, how

about making some minor changes to your diet, including more foods that are

rich in B12 and Iron?

Perhaps if you increase your intake of these foods (I'm sure that some folks

on the list will be able to provide you with some great ideas) for a few

months, your next blood tests will reflect that increase.

This worked for me a few years ago when I was diagnosed with an iron

defficiency (although I began eating red meat again--yuck!).

It's always an inspiration to read posts from people like you who are in

tune with their bodies. I hope someday to be able to know myself as well as

you know yourself and your own needs.

Best,

Florie

April 5, 2001

>the philosophy here is that if you feel good and healthy - do not

interfere

>with your biochemistry .

I'd listen to who best presents the evidence.

Have you ever had your Blood Pressure checked?

You can't feel High blood pressure until you have a stroke.

Would you listen to the person who says you look alright and feel good

and healthy?

B -12 supplement are best given as a shot, but you can buy sub -

lingual pills that dissolve slowly under the tounge and are absorbed

through mouth tissue.