Labstories Ep. 3: B12 and Folate! Testing, Deficiencies & Supplements!

B12 and Folate are members of the B vitamin family. They both play roles in methylation, and as a result, overlap in testing and treatment. B12 has a separate role in neurologic function. Understand them once and for all in this episode of Labstories, which focuses on their differences: Folate is present in (almost) ALL foods. B12 is made by bacteria, and thus only in animal foods. Folate is easily absorbed, but B12 has VERY complex active absorption. Folate deficiencies only take months to develop, but B12 deficiencies take years because of enterohepatic recirculation. Folate deficiencies are relative during times of increased need, like pregnancy. B12 deficiencies are absolute, often irreversible, and lifelong from malabsorptive diseases or gastric bypass surgery. Replacement of folate is always oral (ever heard of folate shots??) and replacement of B12 can be done with injections, liquids, sublingual tablets, or MEGA dose oral supplements.

The Written Episode! 

B12 & Folate Supplements Summary

YouTube Video Episodes!

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Here are affiliate links to some good B12 and Folate Supplements: (As an Amazon affiliate, I receive a small commission on qualifying purchases)

🧠B12

Nature’s Bounty Cyanocobalamin B12: https://amzn.to/4gv4SbU

Thorne Methylcobalamin B12: https://amzn.to/4dN98RI

Pure Encapsulations Methylcobalamin: https://amzn.to/4dimJQq

🥗Folate

For Folic Acid Deficiency:
Thorne 5-Methyltetrahydrofolate: https://amzn.to/3Zs08xG

Prenatal Folic Acid:
Amazon Elements Folic Acid: https://amzn.to/3XRnz2m

For Deficiency OR Prenatal:
Pure Encapsulations Folate 1000 Metafolin L-5-MTHF: https://amzn.to/4eIiM91

🚼Prenatal MultiVitamins

Thorne Basic Prenatal Vitamin: https://amzn.to/4gv2nq1

Pure Encapsulations PreNatal Nutrients: https://amzn.to/4eqgURS

This content is not medical advice and is for general informational purposes only. None of the information provided constitutes the practice of medicine, or any professional healthcare services. No doctor patient relationship has been formed. Information contained here is used at the consumer’s own risk. No one should delay or disregard in obtaining professional medical advice or treatment for any health related issue. The information provided is in no way a substitute for medical advice. 

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