Managing Side Effects of Vitamin B12 Supplementation for Digestion and Migraine Relief
A user experiences diarrhea and migraines from B12 supplements recommended for borderline low levels. Our assistant explains possible side effects, management strategies, and suggests discussing with a doctor alternative options, including B12 form adjustments and hydration tips.
Supplement digestive issues
Hello all. My B12 is borderline low (like on the chart line via my results) and doctor wants me to do an OTC supplement for a few months.
Problem is, it's causing me massive diarrhea and borderline migraines.
Is this something that will eventually get better over time or are they always gonna be side effects of the supplement? If so, i think I'd rather just have crippling fatigue!
Vitamin B12 supplements can sometimes cause gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea and headaches, including migraines12. These side effects may be more common when starting supplementation, as your body adjusts to the increased vitamin intake. In some cases, these symptoms may subside over time, but if they persist, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider for alternative supplementation strategies or dosage adjustments3.
Managing these side effects involves staying well-hydrated, which can help mitigate diarrhea, and using OTC pain relief for migraines if needed1. It's important to discuss any persistent side effects with your doctor to explore possible adjustments in your supplementation plan, which might include changes in the form of B12 used (such as shifting from oral to injectable forms) or the accompanying formulations1.
Additionally, Vitamin B12 is often researched for its potential role in migraine management, due to its effects on nitric oxide and homocysteine, which might be relevant to your experience2.
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