Question:
B-12 readings and question about iron

I was told that after my hysterectomy not to take iron ever again has anyone heard that? Does it still apply now? Also, I got my blood work back this week and my B-12 was 303. The range is 200-1100. The note said between 200-400 readings might experience neuropsychiatric and hematologic abnormalities. Anyone know what that means? I take a sublingual 2x a week. Should I take more? My PCP said everything was okay. I can't ever get him to give me a B-12 shot.    — cfstevens (posted on May 4, 2003)

May 4, 2003
It was my understanding from my nutritional consult that sublingual B-12 tablets must be taken daily. That's why I opted for the monthly shots...JR
   — John Rushton

May 4, 2003
Hi, Cheryl I had a hysterectomy too, and i never heard of that about the iron pills, I even took them for awhile after my hysterectomy and now after my ryn surgery i was told to take them every day for the rest of my life. If I were you, I would ask your doctor for advise aagain. Good Luck.
   — Melodee S.

May 4, 2003
I've never heard that you're not supposed to take iron after a hysterectomy. I've just heard that it makes you constipated. I also take B-12 shots. I probably need iron also because I'm tired all the time. I am almost 2-1/2 yrs. post-op RNY. Lost 120 lbs.
   — Betty Todd

May 5, 2003
When my B-12 level fell to 211 (still barely within the "normal") range, my docs didn't say a word -- I found out by looking at my lab results -- and started using B-12 sublinguals, twice a day. Overdid it, and got the level up to 1300 in about six weeks (woah doawgies!). Cut back to every other day now, and am waiting to see how that goes. I felt pretty pooped at 211, which was why I asked for a copy of my "normal" lab results anyway. I'm told extra B-12 just washes away (hope that's true). Try increasing the frequency of your sublinguals, IF they work for you (as opposed to the shots, which some find necessary) -- you may be able to raise the level on your own.
   — Suzy C.

May 5, 2003
I started B12 shots at 330. My docs didn't notice, but I did. It took a couple months to figure out the correct frequency for me to hold me at a reasonable rate. I don't mind being around 1000, but the docs like it better at 600. Beats 200, so we'll compromise. Iron does not have to consiiptate. You can take an iron that you absorb and doesn't hurt your pouch or mess with the other end. As best as I can see, ALL WLS people (even bands) will eventually need iron. You can take a maintenance dose & watch your labs OR wait til you can't get out of bed & try to fix it then.
   — vitalady