The science of nutrition and the impact on health have been studied for many centuries. In ancient times, treating deficiencies was already common practice. Although vitamins were not identified and scientifically isolated until 1927, the ancient greeks already emphasized the importance of good nutrition for health for many centuries.
In the 5th century BC Hippocrates, a famous Greek physician known as the father of medicine, used a food-focused approach to treat the sick. Although the famous Hippocratic quote "Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food" has been proven a misquotation in 2013, this does not take food off the table as the preferred medical intervention of ancient times.
The author of Let not thy food be confused with thy medicine says it is transparent in his work that diet held a significant approach to healing ailments and disease. Why are we now, in many cases, only relying on medication that can manage but not heal?
Don't get me wrong, I am all for western medicine when and where lifestyle change fails to resolve the condition. So why is all of this relevant, you may ask? In my opinion, we are more malnourished than ever. Not underweight, but nutrient-deprived. I also believe that this is not only because of a poor diet.
Why are we now, in many cases, only relying on medication that can manage but not heal?
For a few years, I have started to focus on a holistic approach in my practice. I have started to listen to my clients' stories and ailments. Often these paint a picture that may have turned out differently if we only acted sooner and not only rely on drugs to correct the situation. How often have I heard the client say," you are my last resort Carina".
Very often, western medicine only focuses on the management of the symptom. It goes something like this, "you have been diagnosed with acid reflux, and that's why you have been prescribed a proton pump inhibitor (PPI)". Very few clients will be informed that their lifestyle or diet may be the root cause of the problem. It is easy to treat the symptom with medication, providing relief, but we neglect to correct the actual cause. By taking the PPI, you will lower stomach acid, and the discomfort will be improved. However, one of the risks you may not be aware of is that taking PPI inhibitors may also inhibit your body's ability to absorb Vitamin B12.
Vitamin B12 is essential to repair your DNA, uphold the nervous system and produce red blood cells. I am not saying that reflux should not be treated, but we often correct one wrong, too wrong ten rights. The fact is we have been using prescribed medicines for every ailment under the sun, not considering the impact it may have on our nutritional status.
It is recommended to monitor Vitamin B12 levels when using the following medication on a long-term or chronic basis.
Colchicine
Metformin for pre or type two diabetes
Slow-releasing potassium products
Some anti-seizure medication
Anti-reflux medicines (PPI)
Vitamin B12 is essential to repair your DNA, uphold the nervous system and produce red blood cells.
Another way to identify the risk of an increased need for B vitamins is to have a genetic Methylation DNA panel. Methylation is the repair process of DNA. During the methylation process, B vitamins switch some genes on and off and produce new DNA. In some individuals, there may be an increased need for B vitamins due to poor methylation. In these individuals, B Vitamin supplementation may be crucial to reduce the risk of developing cancers, coronary artery disease.
Clinical signs and symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency may present in the following ways:
A swollen or inflamed tongue known as glossitis
Tingling, pins, and needles, or weakness in the hands and feet
Poor balance or difficulty walking
Constant fatigue even when sleep is efficient
Poor concentration, difficulty to reason, and forgetfulness
Anaemia
Shortness of breath
Body aches and joint pain
Depression and paranoia
Incontinence
Loss of smell and taste
I personally prefer a food-first approach to correct nutrient deficiencies. Our bodies were wonderfully created to absorb nutrients from real food, not from chemically formulated alternatives. However, it is sometimes impossible to consume enough of a nutrient from food. There may be a problem with absorption in the gut, making oral supplementation insufficient.
People at risk of Vitamin B12 deficiency include:
Strict vegans and vegetarians avoiding all animal sources of protein
Gastrointestinal surgery that involves removal or bypass of the last part of the small intestine (ileum) where Vit B12 is absorbed
Lack of intrinsic factor produced by the stomach, which is essential for the absorption of Vit B12.
Chronic gastritis, partial or complete removal of the stomach, and certain autoimmune conditions will also influence the body's ability to absorb sufficient Vitamin B12.
I personally prefer a food-first approach to correct nutrient deficiencies. Our bodies were wonderfully created to absorb nutrients from real food, not from chemically formulated alternatives.
If you suspect a deficiency, Vitamin B12 status can be determined with a simple blood test. Should your levels test low or borderline low, you already follow a healthy balanced diet with sources of vitamin B12 and take medication that inhibits absorption. I recommend supplementation. If you have absorption difficulty, a Vitamin B12 injectable prescribed by your health care provider will be more effective to correct the levels. If you have no choice but to rely on tablets, use a methylated form of Vitamin B 12 called methylcobalamin.
Should you prefer the food first route to increase Vit B12 in your diet, start by including protein sources of animal origin with at least two of your meals daily. A protein-rich snack may also be considered.
As a closing thought, if you are taking tablets because of other tablets, it may be a good idea to ask yourself if this is the life you want to live… or is it time for a change?
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