Helps make red blood cells, nerve cells and genetic material; converts folate to its active form.
How Much: RDA = 2.4 mcg.
Too Much: UL not determined.
Too Little: Vitamin B-12 converts folate to its active form. Too little B-12 can lead to a folate deficiency, resulting in pernicious anemia – malformed red blood cells causing fatigue, weakness, nausea, loss of appetite and weight loss. Vitamin B-12 absorption declines with age; people age 50 and older should get most of their B-12 from fortified foods and supplements.
Foods: Found only in foods of animal origin; organ meats, egg yolks, clams and salmon. Fortified foods, such as cereal, pasta and bread, may contain synthetic versions, which actually are better absorbed.
Interactions: Antacids, drugs for indigestion and reflux disease, cholesterol lowering medication and the diabetes medication metformin.
Research Note: Maintaining healthy levels of vitamins B-12, B-6 and folic acid may protect bones by keeping blood levels of the amino acid homocysteine from getting too high. High homocysteine levels affect the heart and are associated with cardiovascular disease. They also may wreak havoc with the chemical bonds in bones. A study shows supplementation with B-12, B-6 and folate decreased homocysteine in people taking sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) or methotrexate.
As far as I know about vitamin supps reacting with other medications, I've been told that as long as you're not over doing the dosage, and taking it about 3-4 hours before or after your medication, you should be alright.
Hope this helps.
I do not have Crohn's disease, but have wondered about the Protonix on a continual basis.
I also have Crohn's disease. For this I take 150 mg of Imuran.
What protocol should I follow with eating and the drugs to prevent Vitamin and mineral deficiencies?
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