B12

B-12, Is absorbed differently than most vitamins. The Surest/most effective way of absorbing vitamin B12 After a gastric bypass is with monthly vitamin B12 injections, But this is not necessary unless you have a deficiency already. The recommended daily allowance is 6 mcg, But that is the amount that is to be absorbed. A higher dose is needed when taken sublingual. (Just "oral taking of tablets, WON"T Do It, They are not processed) (To be absorbed by the intestine, B12 must combine with intrinsic factor, [missing from process after Gastric By-pass] and its metabolism is interconnected with that of folic acid. The vitamin is necessary for the growth and replication of all body cells and the functioning of the nervous system. Deficiency of vitamin B12 causes pernicious anemia and other forms of megaloblastic anemia, and neurologic lesions.) However you choose to take Vitamin B12, sublingual- You must take it daily for the rest of your life. Some people prefer getting a B12 shot once (or twice) a month from their PCP. A second alternative is B12 lozenges or sublingual (under the tongue) B12 tablets. With these forms, the B12 is absorbed into your bloodstream through your mouth. Typical amounts in supplements range from 500 mcg to 5000 mcg. A 500 mcg or 1,000 mcg supplement daily is sufficient. If you get the 5000 mcg strength, 1 per week should be sufficient. You can find these at a vitamin specialty store or on the Internet. For info concerning B-12 deficiency? and some helpful informative links for B-12-:type: http://www.dietitian.com/vitaminb12.html http://www.umm.edu/altmed/ConsSupplements/VitaminB12Cobalami ncs.html If you have a low level of B-12 for very long, You can be certain to have neurological damage... The continued problem can be reveersed by upping the B-12 intake, But once the Nerve damage takes place, It can NOT be reversed..... Best Wishes- Dx