In this video, the speaker discusses six lesser-known causes of B12 deficiency. B12 deficiency can lead to permanent nerve and brain damage, anemia, elevated homocysteine levels (dangerous for the heart), and depression. The first cause mentioned is an H. pylori infection, which affects a high percentage of the population and can inhibit B12 absorption. The speaker suggests acidifying the stomach and consuming foods like broccoli sprouts and garlic to counteract H. pylori. Other causes mentioned include taking metformin, genetic variations, excessive synthetic folic acid intake, laughing gas at the dentist, and PPIs. Viewers are encouraged to take natural forms of B12 and methylfolate, and be aware of these causes to address deficiencies effectively.
Key Insights:
- B12 deficiency can lead to permanent damage in the nervous system, anemia, elevated levels of homocysteine, and depression.
- H. pylori infection can contribute to B12 deficiency by creating an alkaline stomach environment that inhibits B12 absorption.
- Broccoli sprouts, garlic, probiotics, clover, and Manuka honey are natural remedies that can help control H. pylori infection.
- Metformin, a medication for diabetes, can cause B12 deficiency and worsen neuropathy problems.
- Genetic variations can affect the conversion and absorption of B12, leading to deficiencies.
- Synthetic folic acid, commonly found in fortified foods and supplements, can mask B12 deficiency.
- Laughing gas and PPIs (antacids) can also contribute to B12 deficiency.
Transcript
Today we’re going to discuss six causes of B12 deficiency that you may not have heard of before. This is important because B12 deficiency can lead to permanent damage in the nervous system and brain, anemia, high levels of homocysteine (bad for the heart), and even depression. Many people with B12 deficiency go undiagnosed because the symptoms are often overlooked.
One of the causes of B12 deficiency is an H pylori infection. Approximately 80% of the population has H pylori in their bodies, but it usually doesn’t cause any problems. However, when the environment in the body changes, it can become very harmful. H pylori can affect the stomach, causing ulcers, gastritis, and GERD symptoms. The treatment usually involves multiple antibiotics and acid-reducing medications, which can be intolerable and lead to antibiotic resistance. H pylori prefers a more neutral pH, but as we age, the stomach becomes less acidic, which can inhibit the absorption of B12. H pylori can also deplete iron reserves, vitamin A, vitamin C, and folic acid. To address H pylori, acidifying the stomach, consuming broccoli sprouts or garlic, and taking probiotics can be effective.
Another cause of B12 deficiency is the use of metformin, a medication for diabetes. Metformin can cause a deficiency in B12 and B1. It can worsen peripheral neuropathy in diabetics, and taking B vitamins along with metformin can help alleviate these symptoms.
Genetic variations, known as SNPs, can also contribute to B12 deficiency. Some genes involved in the conversion and absorption of B12 may not function optimally, leading to poor absorption. Taking a natural form of B12, such as methylcobalamin, and consuming foods high in B12, like red meat and beef liver, can help address this issue.
Synthetic folic acid consumption is another cause of B12 deficiency. Folic acid, found in many fortified foods and supplements, can accumulate in the body, leading to a B12 deficiency. Using methylfolate, a form of folic acid that doesn’t require conversion, can be beneficial.
Receiving nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, at the dentist can also contribute to B12 deficiency.
Finally, using PPIs (proton pump inhibitors), which are antacids, can indirectly cause B12 deficiency by increasing the risk of H pylori infection.
Being aware of these additional causes of B12 deficiency can help individuals take proactive measures to address the issue. It’s important to remember that B12 is closely related to folic acid, so addressing folic acid consumption and absorption can also be beneficial in addressing B12 deficiency.
