Wednesday, December 11, 2013

Burn, baby burn



Heartburn medication linked to B12 deficiency


Nature World news reported that researchers have found a possible link to long term use of common anti-acid medication and greater risk of a vitamin B12 deficiency. Vitamin B12 is required by the body for red blood cell formation; neurological function and DNA synthesis.

The article continues by stating that stomach acids help absorb B12 in the human body, so suppressing the acids leads to lower levels of B12 in the body. Researchers estimate that 15 million people are using these anti-acid medications in 2012 alone.

The two most common types of anti-acids [include proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and histamine 2 receptors] both led to B12 deficiencies. “The latest study was conducted by Jameson R. Lam from Kaiser Permanente, Oakland, Calif., and colleagues” (NWN, 2013).

Taking these PPI medications for more than 2 years show an increased risk  for B12 deficiency by 65%. Higher doses increased that risk further. “Researchers also found women and youngsters using more potent antacids were more likely to be suffering from some level of vitamin deficiency” NWN, 2013).

To read the referenced article go to link below. The full study can be found in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

Reference: 

 

No comments:

Post a Comment