B12 level range question

[Speedy2056]

Hi,

I've been suffering symptoms such as short term memory loss, confusion, obsessive thoughts, anxiety, heart palpitations, irritability, extreme fatigue, low motivation, etc.

My B12 level range came back as 509 or 512, I don't remember which but it was one of them two numbers. I live in Europe and found out that at this range people can experience numerous psychiatric and physical symptoms. Has anybody else experienced symptoms at that kind of range? Here in the UK, those kind of numbers are scraping at the bottom of the very lower normal limit.

I told my doctor that I found out that normal levels should be in the region of 1,000 or above and he agreed so I am now on a strong B-Complex to try and bring it back up again. Before the test was conducted I told him that I had been taking a strong B-Complex for a while and that I experience a remarkable improvement in my symptoms when I take it, so I think that's what persuaded him to do the B12 and folic acid test.

Can anybody else tell me the B12 levels in which they feel at their best, and have you heard of a range level of the low 500's causing symptoms?

Oh, also, strangely I seem to be getting more of a positive effect from the B-Complex that contains the cyanocobalamin form of B12, not the allegedly superior form of methylcobalamin of which I also have. The meth form does not include any folic acid with it so perhaps that is why?

Thanks!

[seattlemom2plus]

Keep us posted on how this works for you.

[S. Kaul, MD]

Hi there!

The normal range for vitamin B12 is 200 - 900 pg/ml. While usually values less than 200 pg/ml cause neuro-psychaitric and haematological symptoms, older adults with levels between 200 and 500 pg/ml may also have symptoms. Management is aimed at supplementation to bring the levels between 500-900 pg/ml range.
Hope this information helps.

Take care!