A shot in the arm may be what you need for good health and increased energy! You may have heard of vitamin B12 and folate, but what do they do and why do you need a shot of them? B12 (cobalamin) and folate (or folic acid) work together to perform many vital functions in the body. Together they help form DNA, red blood cells and components of the nervous system. Another important function of B12 and folate is to break down homocysteine, a protein known to contribute to heart disease.

Because they are so involved in the basic functions of the body, many health conditions can benefit from B12 and folate: chronic fatigue, insomnia, anxiety, depression, anemia, neurological conditions (MS, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, diabetic neuropathy etc), cancer, auto-immune disorders, heart disease, eye conditions, asthma, male infertility, and chronic ringing in the ear, frequent illness…just to name a few.

B12 is naturally available from animal products such as eggs and meat. It is absorbed via a series of digestive events that requires adequate levels of stomach acid, enzymes and a specific protein, intrinsic factor. As we age, our ability to digest and absorb B12 decreases. Also certain medications deplete B12 from our bodies. It can take up to 5 years before any outward symptoms of B2 deficiency shows, however, by that time, the damage has been done.

Folate, on the other hand, is available from green leafy vegetables and mushrooms. It helps the body use amino acids, works with B12, and forms components of the nervous system and red blood cells. Recently, folate has been recommended to pregnant women to prevent spinal deformities in the developing baby. However, folate is good for female health throughout the ages. From infertility, cervical dysplasia to osteoporosis, B12 and folate can help treat these conditions. Research has also shown that folate may also help prevent the development of cancer.

Therefore vegetarians and vegans, as well as diets lacking green leafy vegetables, those with any digestive health problems, those taking antacids and acid lowering drugs, those suffering from alcoholism and addictions, women on estrogen therapy or hormonal birth control, individuals on the following types of medications: anticonvulsants, gout medication, antibiotics, oral antifungal medication, diabetic medication, ulcer medication, certain heart medications, tricyclic antidepressants, may all need to receive B12-folate injections.

I only use special preparations of preservative-free active forms of B12 and folate.
There are 3 different forms of B12 available: cyanocobalamin, hydroycobalamin and methylcobalamin. Cyanocobalamin is often used in vitamin supplements. Hydroxycobalamin and methylcobalamin are used in injections. Medical doctors often use the hydroxy form because it is the cheapest. In addition, the B12 available through your medical doctor is most likely preserved with alcohol and other chemicals. Only the methyl form is the active and useful form of B12 in the body. I only use the methyl form to get the most effective results.

If you are a new patient, an initial consult is required.