Researchers at the UMCG in Groningen warn about the health risks of too much vitamin B12. People with a higher value of this vitamin in the blood would have a greater chance of dying.
It has been known for a long time that a lack of vitamin B12 can cause all kinds of complaints, such as tingling, coordination problems and pain, psychological complaints such as depression, loss of concentration and forgetfulness, but also anemia and gum problems. But until now there were no known adverse effects of excessive doses of vitamin B12.
However, recent research by the UMCG shows that a higher concentration of vitamin B12 in the blood predicts a higher risk of death. “Many people think that there is no danger in overdosing B12 and assume ‘the more, the better’,” the researchers say. “The thought ‘it doesn’t help it won’t hurt’, is with the results of this study no longer tenable. ” Exactly how the higher mortality due to too much vitamin B12 is due must be investigated further.
Supplements or injections
B12 is important for the production of red blood cells, nerve cells and DNA. Therefore, a deficiency can lead to anemia, among other things. This vitamin is only found in animal products such as meat, milk, fish and eggs. Vegans in particular are advised to take extra vitamin B12.
But the researchers warn people who take supplements or receive injections to prevent a vitamin B12 deficiency. More than 5500 people were involved in the study. The results are published in the medical journal Jama Network Open.
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