Question:
IM 31/2 WEEKS POST, CAN I TAKE B-12 PILL BY MOUTH?

   — Jenny L. (posted on April 3, 2003)

April 3, 2003
If you had an RNY, you need to get your B-12 either by shot (intramuscularly or subcutaneously) or sublingually. The intrinsic factor needed to metabolize oral B-12 (either in food or swallowed pill form) is produced in the lower stomach (which is the part that is closed off in the RNY operation) - so we cannot get our B-12 via pill or food...JR
   — John Rushton

April 3, 2003
My surgeon reports most of his patients take B 12 by mouth, with regular pill with no problem, although some need shots. I have never taken anything but by mouth, and my labs are better than pre op. Now jen gets the shots, after refusing any B 12 pills/ Whatever you do get your labs done on schedule and what does your surgeon recommend?
   — bob-haller

April 3, 2003
You can takeB-12 either by shot or sublingualy (under the tounge). After having the WLS yo can no longer absorb it through your stomach or small intestines. I started taking it after 4 weeks post-op. Good luck
   — Sandy H.

April 3, 2003
I left the hospital taking B-12 (Trinsincon) by mouth. No problems so far. I am 3-1/2 weeks post op as well.
   — PJ M.

April 3, 2003
B-12 is attached to protiens, in order for B-12 to be absorbed by the intestines it has to be broken away from the protiens. This is done in the stomach by the stomach acids, as stated by a previous post. Because we have such limited stomach acid due to the size of our 'new' stomaches and because the stomach acid from our 'old' stomach hits our intestines further down the line, our bodies are unable to break away the B-12 in order for it to be absorbed. This is not only an issue for WLS patients it is also an issue for the elderly. As we grow older the body decreases the amount of 'stuff' in the stomach acid that does this job. (dont you just love my medical terminology?) This is why we need to take this vitamin by injection or under the tongue.
   — RebeccaP