What woukd you consider low b12?

[Anonymous]

I’ve seen posts here about how the generally accepted levels are actually too low.

Thanks.

[Anonymous]

A methylmalonic acid test is better. High levels indicate a vitamin B12 deficiency. Much more useful test, just as accessible.

[Anonymous]

Stupid question: does taking a supplement give a false acceptable level? That is, do I need to abstain from the supplement for X length of time prior to testing to ensure that I'm getting an accurate measurement of my level?

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:A methylmalonic acid test is better. High levels indicate a vitamin B12 deficiency. Much more useful test, just as accessible.

You’re supposed to measure both.

[Anonymous]

I was symptomatic at 239

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Stupid question: does taking a supplement give a false acceptable level? That is, do I need to abstain from the supplement for X length of time prior to testing to ensure that I'm getting an accurate measurement of my level?

Supplements could give false acceptable levels. From a website that sells home test kits in the UK (the NHS is notorious for refusing to test for B12 except in the most extreme circumstances):
"To accurately determine deficiency or low levels of vitamin B12 you must stop taking any vitamin B12 supplements a few weeks before your test. Ask your doctor about this if it is prescribed to you. You should also avoid taking biotin supplements for at least 2 days before you test – again, check with your doctor if it’s prescribed to you."

https://www.hollandandbarrett.com/the-health-hub/vitamins-and-supplements/vitamins/vitamin-b/how-to-test-b12-levels/

As for what is low, Japan and Europe have a cut off of 500 to 550, and our cardiologist has said good neurologist wants at least 500.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:

Anonymous wrote:Stupid question: does taking a supplement give a false acceptable level? That is, do I need to abstain from the supplement for X length of time prior to testing to ensure that I'm getting an accurate measurement of my level?

Supplements could give false acceptable levels. From a website that sells home test kits in the UK (the NHS is notorious for refusing to test for B12 except in the most extreme circumstances):
"To accurately determine deficiency or low levels of vitamin B12 you must stop taking any vitamin B12 supplements a few weeks before your test. Ask your doctor about this if it is prescribed to you. You should also avoid taking biotin supplements for at least 2 days before you test – again, check with your doctor if it’s prescribed to you."

https://www.hollandandbarrett.com/the-health-hub/vitamins-and-supplements/vitamins/vitamin-b/how-to-test-b12-levels/

As for what is low, Japan and Europe have a cut off of 500 to 550, and our cardiologist has said good neurologist wants at least 500.

Interesting. My level is considered normal at 410. I am vegetarian and have started taking gummy supplements.

[Anonymous]

I’m also a vegetarian and I know if I don’t take supplements I will see symptoms. Mainly this is because I’m 95% vegan.

[Anonymous]

Interesting. The source cited says to stop taking supplements a few weeks before testing. I've told my PCP that I eat a vegan diet and want to monitor my levels, and she has never mentioned this. It's frustrating to try to make sure everything's okay and not get good information.

[Anonymous]

I had my colon removed in 1996 and my B12 levels fell to around 200. Yes, I was very symptomatic and I was immediately put on monthly B12 injections, which I now do myself. Because of the lack of terminal ileum, I do not absorb oral B12. 200 was considered dangerously low at the time.