Q: Vegetarian diet?
I want to go Vegetarian but is it healthier then a diet with meat in it? would i also lose weight by going Vego and can some one please give me a sample diet.Oh yer one more thing will i be lacked in nutrients?

A: A meat-fre diet can be just as unhealthy or fattening as a meaty diet.

Its all down to balance, make sure you get a good range of fruit, veggies, cereals, dairy and you will be very healthy and have no need for suppliments.

I’ve been veggie for 27 years and had no need for any suppliments, i’m never ill and am healthy and fit ( I own a farm so am used to a bit of hard work as well as my office stuff )

Q: Vegetarian Diet?
I want to give a vegetarian diet a trial run. Can anyone recommend some recipies for me? I want to be sure to get all the proper nutrients as well, and I’m not familiar with what to replace meat with to get the same.

A: Hi. You should write to www.peta.org and ask for their Vegetarian starter kit. They have some recipes in that starter kit. In order to learn about vegetarianism and how to get the right nutrient you should read some books. A good one is Becoming Vegetarian. If you can afford it, try to see a dietitian at firs for proper guidance. You an replace meat with Tofu, beans, lentils, lots of imitation meat products made by the company Yves, Tofurkey, veggie patties, burgers…. You an also buy protein shakes….
When it comes to recipes browse the:
www.allrecipes.com
www.recipezaar.com
www.peta.org
www.vegetariantimes.com
www.foodtv.com
They have tones of rated vegetarian recipes to chose from.
Good luck

Q: vegetarian = diet?
I’ve heard that being a vegetarian doesn’t mean having a diet, because in vegetables, there are a lot protein and carbohydrate. Having to much proteins and carbohydrate will not make someone loss his/her weight. But may make them fatter. So, what’s your opinion about it?

A: Vegetables contain some protein and some carbohydrate but not as much as carbohydrates as bread, potato sugar or flour and not as much protein as meat, eggs fish etc. Also veg are low in fat unless you add it when you cook them.

If you want to lose weight a vegetarian diet should be calorie controlled just as any other diet shoud be and should also be balanced to ensure you get enough of all the food groups, vitamins and minerals.

Q: What is a good vegetarian diet plan that would work well and fast?
I’m 14 years old around 5′5 and about 120 pounds.
I’m also a vegetarian. I’m looking to loose some weight but not a lot.
Just to tone and to eat healthier. I can’t seem to find a vegetarian diet plan so if you could help me out with some tips or information that would be great.

A: I tend not to like strict diet plans. I found that I ate a LOT better when I went vegan (no more cheesey gooey goodness or ice cream). I would suggest going vegan for the period of your diet. Also, abstain from pre packaged vegan foods (soy ice cream, fried chik’n, etc), and focus more on whole foods. Seriously, taking the cheese and dairy out of my diet did wonders because so many fatty and tasty foods are eliminated.

So, in sum, try a vegan diet full of unprocessed foods. Please understand I am not trying to push veganism on you for any moral or ethical reason. What you eat is up to you. I am simply focusing on the health aspects and my own experience. You could easily do this for the duration of your diet and then switch back to eating healthy dairy and egg products in your diet.

Q: What is a good vegetarian diet for my cross training and running?
I’m six foot three inch, 235 pounds and I’ve gained about ten pounds of muscle mass from January but I’ve recently began an exclusive vegetarian diet. I need to replace the chicken and fish that were in the diet, looking for about three thousand calories a day. Any suggestions would be very helpful, many thanks in advance.

A: You’ll need iron for running that beets.. eat some raw ones regular also spinach and beet tops too. Eat more fruit than veggies. Fruit is what really replaces meat. don’t forget nuts,
seeds, grains, cereals, beans.
Fake meat recipe from Burker King:
14oz Canned pumpkin, add in Soya sauce, oatmeal, wheatgerm and mix together.. you can form into balls or make patties and even sausages with the mixture. For fake
Sausages there is an additional step roll in cornmeal or gelatin unless U want skinless sausages then U don’t need to do the additional step. Cook the fake meat item in oil. If you use the balls in spagetti better taste if U dip them in oil they don’t need to be precooked as the water will cook them with the spagetti!
Oh U won’t see me here much due to too many violations so
to contact me go to Goody2shoes2@freespeech.com
I’d rather put up with other crap than violations! I might just do my Own Yahoo like service there on freespeech.com!

Q: How do you maintain a vegetarian diet when your husband and kids are die hard meat eaters?
My husband and my son both think the world is going to come to an end if we don’t have meat daily. I just eliminated poultry out my diet, and I have been pork and red meat free for a few months now. I do plan on eating fish occassionally (I love fish anyway) but certainly not every day. Are there any vegetarian meals you can suggest? Or, does anyone know of a good vegetarian/pescatarian cookbook you can recommend?

A: make dishes that cater to both… Spaghetti /w meat balls, cook the meat balls seperate and add them to the meat eaters meals but omit them from your own… Chicken primavera again meat cooked seperate and added to theirs.. things like that… If you try to cook two seperate meals it will end up breaking you down…

Q: What is a good vegetarian diet for muscle building?
I am an Indian and a vegetarian (no eggs). I am starting to see some muscle mass develop, notable on my biceps but perhaps, my diet isnt good enough for all the workout I do.

I take a bowl of lentils (dal) after workout. Is this good enough?

A: You should take protein rich diet to develop your muscles along with proper excercise. For vegetarian people all sorts of dal, sprouts are the only source of proteins beside milk and milk products. Proteins are heavy to digest so be careful also not to make your stomach upset.

Q: How do I lose weight on a vegetarian diet?
I have been on a vegetarian diet for about two years. Unfortunately I seem to crave more sugar and bread!!! Are there any good diets out there for vegetarians. I am about 10 pounds overweight.

A: There are more tips and info.
How to lose weight naturally has been in debate for years.

Some say low carb. Some say high carb. Some say it’s how much food. Some say it’s how much exercise. But none of these covers the whole picture.

How to lose weight naturally is not rocket science. It just takes accepting the facts of these seven natural laws of weight loss, plus good old-fashioned stick-to-itiveness.

Seven Laws of How to Lose Weight Naturally

1. Make a commitment to whatever it takes.
2. Start from a foundation of happiness.
3. Design your own healthy diet plan.
4. Manage your emotions.
5. Find a way to exercise daily.
6. Keep a Journal.
7. Be persistent.

- Healthy life every day!

Q: Is a vegetarian diet an effective way to lose weight?
I’m about to graduate from college. This summer I’m working overseas for a study abroad program. I’m trying to lose some weight before I go. I’m doing some aerobics to get my body prepared for the P90X workout. Here is what I’m asking. Will a vegetarian diet help me lose weight effectively. The only meat I eat is tuna. Other than that, I consume eggs, milk, beans, or peanut butter for my protein source.

A: I have started this Diet (lifestyle change) in the middle of November at 140lbs, and now at 117lbs

http://hubpages.com/hub/fruit_fast

A DIET IS WHAT YOU EAT….there for we are all on a diet….
THINK LIFESTYLE CHANGE

You got the change the way you think and feel about food

TRY THIS, and stick to it.

The first 3-4 weeks are the hardest until your body adjusts to the change.
Results will be in about the same time

Fruits and Veggies

Eat more plants and keep away from stuff that was made in plants.

Don’t eat anything that comes in a can, box or package….
…..THEY HAVE ADDITIVES IN THEM THAT MAKE YOU ADDICTED TO THE FOOD…..
If man made it, don’t eat it

NO white BREAD or SUGAR

NO PIZZA, I am in the pizza business, and it is not good for you, very high in FAT and Calories

NO FRIED FOOD…

Stay away from FAST FOOD

NO POP, SODA or FIZZY DRINKS

Walk your dog, or walk a friends dog

Don’t think of it as a diet, but think of it as a lifestyle change

I have lost 28.5 pounds in 3 months, drink lots of water. I usually eat a meal of what ever I want once a week….controlled portion….this really works………

Write down every thing you eat

take a multivitamin at night

Q: Is there a simple vegetarian weight loss diet that would be easy to follow in a college environment?
I’ll be going to college soon and I am overweight. While most people gain weight when they go to college, I’m nearly ashamed of eating in public so I’m hoping it will be a great opportunity to lose weight. I will probably make breakfast in the morning but my other 2 meals will be from dining halls. I was wondering if anyone knew a good vegetarian diet that would help me lose weight quickly without requiring I go to the grocery store often and buy ridiculous and expensive natural products.

A: to save giving a long winded answer this site might help

http://www.diet-and-resources.com/weight-loss-pills-review.html

Q: How do I start a vegetarian diet?
I have recently become interested in eating a vegetarian diet but I don’t quite know how to start. Can someone please give me some tips on how to ease into vegetarian diet?

A: First, Do a little research on vegetarian diets. You just don’t want to jump into being a vegetarian. First you want to know suitable substitutes for meats, because you will no longer be getting nutrients from meat, and you want to make sure you are getting all the things you need from a vegetarian diet.
Things like protien and iron, you won’t have to worry about, you can get those things from a vegetarian diet, and you will have less of the unwanted things like saturated fat, and cholesterol. But you will have to take vitamin B12 supplements, since it is really only found in meat.
You may want to ease into a vegetarian diet… but I jumped right in and it worked for me. So you will have to do whatever works for you.
Good Luck.

Q: I would like to try a vegetarian diet for the summer but I have no ideal where to start. What are the basics?
We raise a garden so I have a large selection of fresh veggies to choose from. I am always tired & sluggish so I was hoping making a switch to a healthier diet would help & with having the garden, vegetarian seems to be the best choice. Anyone with any guidelines to go by? Also, any tricks for learning to go without the red meats? I love sirloin tips w/ mushrooms & onions!

A: Hello! Congratulations on your decision to switch to vegetarianism!

Being a vegetarian doesn’t have any specific guidelines, besides not eating meat. Some vegetarians are stricter then others, it is all personal choice. For example, some vegetarians will eat pizza with meat on it, but they will pick of the meat. Others find that that isn’t for them. Basically, vegetarians create their own guidelines. The only one to stick by, to call yourself a vegetarian, is to not eat meat.

Going without red meats.. hmm. I would say, take it in steps. For example, one week give up one kind of meat. The next week, give up a new type of meat. Or, you could take it by animal. One week, give up any meat from cows. The next week, give up any meat from pigs. Although, for some people, it is easier to just STOP.

It takes around 21 days to get over a craving. So, once you stop eating meat, or a certain type of meat, go one month without eating it. Give yourself one month, and then go from there.

For any meat you’re craving, there are substitutes! One great brand is Morning Star. Their website is listed below, in the sources, and it also has some recipes on the site!

If you search online, you will be able to find thousands of vegetarian recipes, including some of your favorite non-meat foods! Not to mention, meat substitutes!

I think I’m starting to repeat myself now, but anyways. Give it one month, and the very least. I believe that you can do it! If you have any questions, feel free to contact me!

Q: will eating a vegetarian diet for 30 days, jumpstart a significant weight lose?What would you like to ask?
I need to shock my metabolism into burning calories and fat. I started a vegetarian diet recently and I’m hopeful that it will initiate a double # weight decrease.

A: I lost 50 pounds by switching to a pure vegetarian diet without refined and processed foods. One of the best expert in the field is Dr. Caldwell Esselstyn, Jr. Follow his diet conscientiously over your lifetime and you will maintain your weight loss. If you stop, be prepared to watch the pounds go back on. It’s a lifetime commitment to be effective. Note that calorie restricted diets and Atkins diets have been proven to be ineffectual for more than a year. (“Rethinking Thin”, Gina Kolata).

I don’t think shocking your system is a good thing, but it’s probably the easiest approach. You will probably go through withdrawals from addictions to salt, sugar, fat/oils, MSG, and aspartame if you are like most Westerners.

One good thing about a pure vegetarian diet is the fact that you don’t feel hungry because it is high in fiber. It’s a very satisfying and healthy diet. Just take your B12, Vitamin D, and ground flax seed (Omega-3 fatty acids). Beans and whole grains at each of three meals squashes your appetite. Lot’s of vegetables and some fruits fulfill the rest of your requirements. If you don’t or cannot eat a balanced vegetarian diet, you may need to eat some animal flesh, but you will suffer some health consequences over a lifetime. Also, make sure to check with your doctor about cholesterol if you are taking a statin drug. These are way too powerful for people on a vegetarian diet and can cause neurological damage.

Avoid pre-packaged, pre-processed convenience foods. Those will always get you. MSG and aspartame are neurotoxins and are outright dangerous (MSG is used to fatten laboratory rats before studies). Soy is not necessary. Soy contains natural hormones and in the US often is made from genetically modified beans. A wide variety of other beans can provide you with the protein you need along with whole grains (oats or wheat or others). Soy is inexpensive and high in protein but the GM crops are risky. (Dr. Neal Barnard)

Q: What is the best Balanced Vegetarian Diet and what can and can’t Vegetarians eat?
I’m a sophmore (going to be) in high school, I weigh 76.5 pounds and my height is 59 inches. I have limb girdle muscular dystrophy and wanted to know what the best diet is. I just started being a vegetarian for about 10 days and need some help.

A: A huge body of scientific evidence now shows us that a well-balanced, 100% plant-based (veggie) diet will keep you fighting fit and healthy – and chances are if you stop eating meat, you’ll live longer too. You probably think that veggies and vegans have to take mineral and vitamin supplements, but it’s not true. As long as you eat a varied diet of fresh fruit and vegetables, along with grains, beans and nuts, you will obtain all the nutrients that you need for a healthy body.

You will also be healthier just because you think more carefully about what you eat.
Things to avoid are all forms of meat and fish, Gelatine – made from boiled animal bones and hooves
Anchovies – small fish
E120 also known as cochineal – red food colouring made from squashed insects
Suet, dripping and lard – beef fat
Rennet – found in some cheeses, from the stomach of calves
Vegetarian food should have the vege stamp on it.

Q: Can you have a balanced vegetarian diet without nuts?
I have two daughters, one hates meat and the other has said for some while that she would like to be a vegetarian because she can’t bear the thought of eating animals. I really like vegetarian food so it would be no problem for me.

But the daughter who hates meat (and also most vegetables) is very allergic to nuts, both peanuts and some tree nuts. Does anyone know if it would still be possible for her to have a balanced diet, and how?

A: Yes, easily. Nuts are a fairly good source of protein but they mostly get their calories from fat. They’re a good snack but shouldn’t be the staple source of protein in anyone’s diet – too high in fat and calories.

Try switching all the white and refined grains (white bread, white rice) to whole grains and brown rice. Try new types of whole grains like barley or quinoa. Whole grains are made from the entire grain – most white pasta is made from wheat that has been stripped of the most nutritious, high fiber and high protein layers. In fact, it’s so unhealthy that there are mandates for companies that use white flour to refortify it after the processing takes place. Whole grains are naturally high in protein and fiber and are the natural state of the grain and are head and shoulders above refined grains and “white” bread and pasta products.

Beans and legumes are VERY high in protein, fiber and nutrients. Try different kinds – kidney beans, chickpeas, lentils, split peas. Make soups, stews, chili. You can make burger-like patties out of black beans. They are so versatile and wonderful.

Try soy products – soy is a complete protein that the USDA and FDA both admit to being as substantial and nutritious as animal protein. Buy a few trays of tofu, or go to Whole Foods or another natural foods store and try tempeh (which is a brick of fermented soybeans).

Look up recipes – this is vital to learn how to work with these foods. Just like someone that has never cooked with chicken breast before or has no idea what to do with it would probably cook something that’s a total, hideous mess, the same would happen with never finding out how to use tofu or tempeh. If used properly you can have a huge range of delicious meals – I make tempeh stroganoff, tofu and veggie stir fry, tofu nuggets, etc.

Q: Soya Milk?
Any suggestions on what to add to soya milk to make it taste nice?

A: I am thinking of buying a machine myself.Probably one of these two brands ( first brand has one on sale thru tommorrow march 4 and the second brand has a free tofu kit…will have to try to research it on consumer reports or yahoo answers)
http://www.soymilkmaker.com/order.html (one is on sale thru march 4..tommorrow)
http://www.soymilkquick.com/soymilkmaker.html (with free tofu kit)

soymilk maker reviews of some soymilk makers
http://www.realfoodliving.com/reviews.htm
http://www.realfoodliving.com/soymilkmakers.htm

http://www.realfoodliving.com/soycomparisons.htm

here is a video of soymilk making with a machine
http://www.vegtv.com/?clipId=V1103&channel=VegTV%20Recipes (soymilk maker video)

this looks like the best recipe I have found so far.

Soy milk recipe — tastes like Edensoy
·Soak one measure of dry soybeans for 6 to 12 hours.
·Load and run soymilk maker as per the directions that came with the machine.
·Cool the milk in the refrigerator till it is at least lukewarm.
·Add 1/4 tsp. of salt.
·Add 2 Tbs. of sugar.
·Add 3 Tbs. of Barley Malt.
·Add 1 Tbs. Of Vanilla flavoring.
Each batch yields approx. 1/3 gallon of soy milk. I typically make 2 batches at a time and store it in a plastic container in the refrigerator

http://www.soymilkmaker.com/recipe.html#receipt

Tips and another recipe with flavorings

* Although you can soak your beans overnight and store them after draining in the refrigerator until needed, we have found that the best soymilk is made from beans that have been soaked for about six to nine hours, washed, drained and used immediately after soaking.

* We usually make a gallon at a time. We place the gallon in the refrigerator, but also place about a quart in a sealable container with a pour spout. When we are ready to use some soymilk we can shake the smaller vigorously (over the sink) and this improves the texture and taste. The gallon can be stirred and then the quart container refilled from that. It is also handier for the kids to have a smaller container to handle. Without stabilizers and other additives it does tend to settle.

* The recipe we use is to make three batches for a full gallon. We only use the Laura beans from Fairview farms. They are a quality bean, make delicious soymilk, and the price is extremely reasonable even including shipping costs. We usually buy thirty pounds at a time for the two of us. At less than $1 a pound delivered it was about the same as the grocery store beans which are not specifically for soy milk. At 70 grams of beans per batch, even with our “double rich batches,” that’s only about $.83 of beans for a gallon if you purchase 30 pounds at a time! if you like the thinner, weaker milk, its only$.42 a gallon! Compare that to commercial soymilk! [all prices USD].

To one gallon of fresh, warm soymilk out of the machine we add:

* 3 Tbs. white sugar (we didn’t like the taste of fruit sugar nor rice syrup)
* 3/8 tsp salt
* 3 tsp. vanilla extract (look at Costco etc.. for large bottles – 16oz. bottle for about $6.)

Even with those ingredients added, the cost is well under $.01 per ounce – less than you pay for commercial soy milk.

HINT 1: Try a fresh glass, warm right from the machine- it is wonderful in the cold winter months, particularly with a little cocoa mixed in! We are going to be using it to make cappuccinos and lattes as soon as our machine shows up! It does seem to froth up very nicely.

HINT 2: Do NOT place the okara in your trash compactor! It will squeeze out everywhere like a giant tube of toothpaste run over by a large truck. Don’t ask me how I know.

HINT 3: Mix the soymilk with your favorite protein powder and a frozen banana. Mix with a high speed mixer (we use a Braun right in the glass) for a delicious low fat breakfast shake.

http://www.soymilkmaker.com/testimonials.html

This is a good link for general soymilk recipes and okara recipes

http://www.soymilkmaker.com/recipe.html#receipt

here is a couple of tips I got from yahoo answers and a few tips from the internet

1. Soy milk making tips

No matter what anyone says though, use the (Fairview Farms) Laura beans. ( Note by me: You can order at: 1-888-526-9296 . http://www.fairviewfarms.com/ )
They may be more expensive but still much cheaper than buying already made soy milk. If you decide to get one, if your making more than one batch at a time u MUST MUST MUST fully clean and dry all the parts between each batch. I didn’t listen to that once and my second batch was nasty burnt soymilk. Also, add a pinch or two of salt and some Carreggean, these are listed on Silk Soymilk and make a big difference in the homemade stuff.

2. Be sure to always soak soy beans for 6 to 16 hours first and look for the ingredients on the soymilk brand that you buy so you can try to match the ingredients in your batch.http://www.soymilkmaker.com/whysoakbean.html

3. five different people’s recommendations
a. Currently we use two tablespoons of sugar, 1/8 tsp. salt, and 1 tsp. of vanilla extract per 50 oz. batch and find it quite delicious.
http://www.soymilkmaker.com/testimonials.html
***
b. Instead of sugar, I put 2 tablespoons of brown rice syrup and 1/8 teaspoon of sea salt per batch, and in all honesty, it tastes better than store bought. Yay!
http://www.soymilkmaker.com/testimonials.html
***
c. I use a cotton coffee strainer (colador, available in any latin grocery) to make it as smooth as cow’s milk. http://www.soymilkmaker.com/testimonials.html
***
d. Soybean wt to cups conversion

Measure 70 grams of clean dry soybean with the included measuring cup. (A full cup is 100 grams).”
http://www.soymilkmaker.com/testimonials.html
http://www.soymilkquick.com/soy-milk-recipes.html (this one also says that 100gms is equal to one cup)
**
e. another conversion of wt to cups
I rinse 100 gms (dry 1/2 cup plus 1 Tablespoon) of organic or non-GMO Laura® soy beans (*see note) and then cover beans with pure water to soak overnight.

http://www.realfoodliving.com/soyinstructions.htm

4. The strong flavor or bitterness that sometimes occurs in soy milk is what the folks at INTSOY, University of Illinois, refer to as “beany flavor”. The traditional way to make soymilk in Hong Kong and China involves soaking soybeans in water, and then grinding soybeans with water. This process is an efficient way to transfer a lot of the nutritious components from the dry soybean into the liquid soymilk. However, during the grinding a beany flavor develops. The grinding in cold water allows a natural soybean enzyme to come into contact with the soybean lipid (oil) and in the presence of water and oxygen this beany flavor develops.
INTSOY has developed a process to produce soymilk that does not have the beany flavor. The important step is that the dry soybeans are dropped into rapidly boiling water and cooked for a long enough time to destroy the enzyme. So yes, it is possible to produce a soymilk that is not bitter.

http://www.ellenskitchen.com/faqs/tofumilk.html

5. notes about fortifying soymilk with vitamins (one person online recommends dropping a multiple vitamin in a hot batch of soymilk, but this might not be a good idea? heat may destroy some vitamins)
300 milligrams calcium, from calcium lactate or calcium carbonate, for each cup of milk
50 to 150 micrograms vitamin B12 for the batch (of special importance to those eating no dairy)
1 Tsp. Honey, for each cup of milk
1 Tsp. oil, for each cup of milk

http://www.soymilkmaker.com/add-VITAMINS.html

6. http://www.soymilkmaker.com/testimonials.html (personal emails and suggestions of people making soymilk and tofu…lots of different ideas)

7.INTSOY Home and Village Processing Notes

Recently, INTSOY developed a new, inexpensive method to prepare soymilk at the home and village level. The following is a simplified form of this small-scale preparation process:
Drop whole, raw soybeans directly into boiling water containing a small amount of sodium bicarbonate and blanch for five minutes.
Drain the water, add the partially blanched beans to fresh boiling water containing sodium bicarbonate, and cook for five additional minutes.
Drain the blanch water and grind the beans along with the additional boiling water in an electric blender or hand grinder.
Stir the slurry well and filter with a finely woven, moist cheesecloth. Squeeze out as much milk as possible.
Simmer the filtrate for 20 minutes.
Add sugar and flavoring and pour into holding containers.
Heat treatment is the most important step. It is absolutely necessary to hydrate and thoroughly heat the raw soybeans before grinding into a slurry to prevent development of the typical beany flavor. This process adequately destroys the antinutritional Trypsin inhibitor.
Boiling times longer than recommended will reduce the amount of protein in the final product. The concentration of solids easily can be adjusted according to the final use of the soymilk.

http://intsoy.nsrl.uiuc.edu/soyfood.html#Dehulling%20Soybeans

8. Pressure cooker soy milk Note from a reader: “I have used the following soy-milk recipe. It requires a pressure cooker, and unfortunately, my experience has been that occasionally, the bean pulp with clog the cooker, and blow the top. It is an unbelievably quick and easy way to make soy milk nonetheless.
Chop soaked beans in a blender. Use about 4X as much water.
Load the pressure cooker Ellen says: rinse cooker and lid with cold water before adding puree, oil the top two inches of the inside pan rim and NEVER fill cooker more than 1/3 full when making bean dishes. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable/ soy oil on top of the slurry to further reduce the likelihood of clogging.
Pressure cook for just about 15 minutes. Ellen says: DO NOT leave the kitchen! Once the jiggler begins moving, watch it continuously. If it stops jiggling- this is the sign the vent has clogged- turn off the heat immdiately, cool immediately with icewater or cold running wayter in the sink, and open the pot to continue cooking by regular stove top method. Never reseal a pressure cooked recipe that has blocked once.
When cool, strain through cheese cloth, or some other clean cloth or filter paper.
Add your salt and flavorings to taste. Refrigerate covered.

http://www.ellenskitchen.com/faqs/tofumilk.html#tofu

here is a recipe…doesn’t say about sugar, vanilla or chocolate flavor how much to add, but I would add one or the other flavor plus sugar, depending if you wanted vanilla or chocolate soy milk..also may want to add other ingredients to match a formula at the store and vitamins..

Preparation of Soymilk at Home for Drinking -alternate recipe- uses blanching with baking soda, which reduces the B vitamin content, makes 6 cups

Ingredients
1 cup whole soaked soybeans, that were cleaned and soaked overnight
14 cups of boiling water, 1 quart at a time
2 teaspoons baking soda, 1 teaspoon at a time
1-2 oz sugar, rice syrup or maple syrup(60 g) (sugar added varies according to taste*)
3/4-1 teaspoon salt

Method
1. Use clean good quality soybeans that are free from dirt. Remove cracked, damaged and discolored soybeans.
2. Bring 4 cups water to a vigorous boil and add 1 tsp. baking soda.
3. Drop 1 cup soaked soybeans directly into the rapidly boiling water and blanch for 5 minutes.
4. Drain and rinse with hot water (if available).
5. Drop the rinsed soybeans directly into a fresh 4 cups vigorously boiling water containing 1 tsp. baking soda and blanch for 5 minutes.
6. Drain and rinse with hot water (if available).
7. Grind the blanched soybeans with 4-6 cups very hot water (near boiling) for 3 minutes using a blender set at high speed. The lid MUST be held on or the cover will blow off, spewing hot soymilk everywhere.
8. You will probably need two batches. Filter the raw soymilk by pouring it through several layers of cheese cloth. After the soy slurry in the cheese cloth has cooled to a safe temperature to avoid burning your hands, rinse raw okara with 1/2 cup boiled water and hand squeeze the cheese cloth to extract as much of the remaining soymilk as possible. Set aside the raw okara or freeze for other recipes.
9. In a pot at least twice the volume of your soymilk, add salt and sweetener. Simmer (cook near boil) for 20 minutes. Bring soy milk to a boil over high heat, stirring the bottom of the pot frequently, this can take 15 minutes. Then turn heat down and simmer for about 7 minutes. Stir occasionally.
9a. Or, for scorch prevention you can heat soy milk uncovered for 30 minutes in a double boiler, stirring occassionally to prevent a film on top from forming. Add water to replace any water lost during boiling. Note, You can also remove the skin carefully in sheets and dry it draped over chopsticks all over you kitchen. This is Yuba, which is used in Chinese cooking to make wonderful mock meats, wraps and casings.
Serve soy milk hot or cold. Cover and refrigerate remainder, for up to 10 days, or consume by the end of the day if you do not have refrigeration.

* Flavors may be added according to preference.

http://www.ellenskitchen.com/faqs/tofumilk.html#tofu

here is another recipe

Preparing Soymilk (INTSOY Method) and Okara

Ingredients:
9 cups (2000 g) water for blanching twice
1 1/4 cups (200 g) whole soybeans or cotyledons (dehulled soybeans)
1/2 tsp. baking soda (2.5 g) for first blanch
1/8 tsp. baking soda (0.5 g) for second blanch
9 cups (2000 g) water for grinding with blanched beans
Sugar as desired (usually about 3%)
Salt (0.2%)

Flavors as desired (vanilla or chocolate)
Method:
Clean whole soybeans or cotyledons by removing dirt and damaged soybeans.
Bring 4 1/2 cups (1,000 grams) water to boil on a stove. Add 1/2 tsp. (2.5 g) baking soda (0.25% of the blanch water by weight).
Add soybeans directly into boiling water and blanch for five minutes.
Drain and rinse with hot water.
Bring 4 1/2 cups (1,000 grams) water to boil on a stove. Add 1/8 tsp. (0.5 g) baking soda (0.05% of the blanch water by weight)
Add the blanched soybeans directly into the rapidly boiling water. Stir, return to boil, and cook for five minutes.
Drain and rinse with hot water.
Grind the blanched cotyledons or whole beans with 9 cups (2,000 grams) hot water for 3 minutes using blender setting at high speed.
Cool until warm to touch and filter through a cheese cloth by squeezing.
Simmer soymilk on a stove for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add salt, sugar and flavors as desired. Refrigerate. Serve hot or cold.

http://intsoy.nsrl.uiuc.edu/soyfood.html#Dehulling%20Soybeans

Q: soya milk?
Why is it that soya milk is considered healthier than regualr milk? Is it just the fat content? Surely completely skimmed milk is just as low fat?
Xx~xX

A: Soy milk is nutritionally close to cow’s milk, though most soy milk commercially available today is enriched with added vitamins such as vitamin B12. It naturally has about the same amount of protein as cow milk. Natural soy milk contains little digestible calcium as it is bound to the bean’s pulp, which is insoluble in a human. To counter this, many manufacturers enrich their products with calcium carbonate which can dissolve in the acid of the stomach. Notably it has little saturated fat, which many consider to be a benefit. Lower fat varieties, however, contain less protein than cow’s milk.

Soy milk is promoted as a healthy alternative to cow’s milk for reasons including:

Contains no antibiotics, hormones, cholesterol, or links to cancer, diabetes, and other diseases
Diabetes management through its ability to control blood sugar levels. However, diabetics should be aware that most brands of soymilk – even those labelled “plain” or “organic” – are actually sweetened. Look for the word “unsweetened” on the label.
Source of lecithin and vitamin E
Lacks casein
Safe for people with lactose intolerance or milk allergy
Polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats are good for the heart.
Contains isoflavones, organic chemicals, that may possibly be beneficial to health

Q: Soya-milk?
IS IT HEALTHY? i recently changed drinking cows milk to soya milk and now my friend has told me that it proven to weaken the heart…. i prefer drinking soya-milk..but hav’nt touched any milk since she told me.
please someone put my mind at rest x

A: No,soy can help your heart! It contains no cholesterol and is lower in fats and saturated fats,all of those found in cow’s milk can contribute to heart disease.Soy can help lower your cholesterol,especially when eaten with a low fat diet.

Q: can you use soya milk instead of evaporated milk? What is the difference?
whats the differece between evaporated milk and soya milk?

also can you use it instead of and what one if better for diabetics?
i dont have any of the evaporated or soya milk in the house. i would look at it otherwise. sorry!
i dont have any of the evaporated or soya milk in the house. i would look at it otherwise. sorry!

A: I am a former chef from Canada, and a diabetic also, and evaporated milk is milk with 30% of the water steamed out and then canned, soya milk is made from crushed soyabeans cooked in water and then the milky solution is pasteurized, strained and put in containers, the only thing is to watch about soyamilk is “some” is sweetened with sugar, there are ones done with “Splenda”, we have them here in Canada, for diabetics it is fine unsweetened, but it is higher in carbs and protein than dairy milk even evaporated like the Carnation type, I use both, the 2% EVP milk for cooking and coffee, I drink 1 glass of raw soyamilk, it is not pasteurized and is a bit harsher then the other, I get mine in Chinatown here in Toronto, Canada, you can get it plain or flavoured also, but sugarless is always the way. regular milk is fine for most recipes, just warm it or scald it before using.

Q: What are negative effects of drinking soya milk?
Can anyone give me what are negative effects of drinking soya milk? I want answers from people who really have experienced bad effects of drinking soya. Someone told me it reduces your sperm count, is this true? I drink soya because of it’s protien content, and just to make sure it doesn’t affect my health in a bad way. And please don’t answer something that comes from any advertisement promoting soya milk products, I really need answers!!! Thanks alot!

A: There are very strong phytoestrogens present in soy. It’s good for you, but moderation is the key here. The science on these effects is not finished. I have pulled back on my soy due to a pre-existing high estrogen level.

Here’s a summary of effects from a broad study.

“The most frequently reported adverse events among a total of 3,518 subjects in 49 studies (including 5 non-randomized and 3 pharmacokinetic studies) that reported adverse events were gastrointestinal in nature. These were reported in 33 of 41 comparison studies of soy diets, soy proteins, isoflavones, and phytoestrogen supplements. Most of the gastrointestinal adverse events were reported in soy diet and soy protein trials, especially the 12 studies that used purified isoflavone interventions in dosages ranging from 40 to 100 mg/day. The amount of soy protein in these trials ranged from 20 to 60 g/day, but there was no clear dose relationship between the amount consumed and subsequent adverse events. Menstrual complaints, reported in 15 studies, were also common. Six of these studies used purified isoflavone interventions in dosages ranging from 40 to 80 mg/day. However, most women in these studies were post-menopausal and the controls frequently included hormone therapy regimens. Other adverse events included musculoskeletal complaints, headache, dizziness, and rashes. In addition, there were somewhat more withdrawals from the soy arms due to taste aversion.”

And here is some good news from the University of Toronto:

“Keep in mind that this was in very large amounts of soy intake and the results were (in mega doses!): nipple discharge, breast enlargement and also minor decreases in testosterone. But “we still couldn’t find anything that was serious, and we went up to doses that are probably 30 times what you could get from normal foods,” the researcher said. “I don’t think that there are a lot of estrogenic worries. Your testicles will not shrink and you won’t have massive breast enlargement” from eating soy. However it is not easy to eat so much soy, in fact it is quite difficult!”

Q: Can soya milk be used in bread recipes instead of cows milk?
I’m thinking of buying a bread maker, but I normally make bread without milk because I have a diary free diet. A lot of bread recipes have milk in them an wondered if I can replace this with soya milk?

A: A number of recipes in the book coming with your bread maker ’should’ require no milk whatsoever.
But you can also make your own non-dairy ‘milk’ for yourself with nuts as their base.
It would be much like coconut milk and you can adjust your method for taste.
I would take the nuts of choice and place them in a blender with some water and puree. This method could bring out some interesting results.
I remember some years ago, the dairy industry telling us we could use milk in recipes in place of water to add body and flavour. I think any bread recipe calling for milk, therefore, can have the milk replaced by another liquid of a similar specific gravity (such as water). If a recipe calls for water with skim milk powder, instead of the skim milk powder, why not try using pulverized nuts instead?

Q: Can you make pancakes with soya milk?
I usually make a flour mountain and put milk in the middle. Would soya milk have the same effect?

A: Yes, it’s the same (well, better than dairy milk, but you know what I mean).

Q: Can anybody tell me how to make soya milk at home?
They say there are particular methods to make milk out of raw soya beans. Please tell me if you have tried any of the methods. Can this be used in place of cow’s milk to make other prducts like yoghurt?

A: Buy a soya cow and keep it fed on good grass. Milk it morning and evening. Keep the milk refrigerated for long life.
(Yours and the milk’s).

Q: can you use soya milk to made porridge?
I found out from my doc that dairy and wheat are not good for me at the moment.I found some rice and millet mix for porridge and was wondering if I can use soya milk to make?

A: As long as you like it, of course!

Q: How is soya milk an advantage to people with hypertension, cancer & diabetes?
Is soya milk just a prevention for such diseases or can it help cure those with hypertension and diabetes?

A: stop asking the same question

Q: What happens if you drink out of date Soya Milk?
I drank a bowl of cereal with Marks & Spencers Soya Milk. It wasn’t out of date but it says use within 2 days of opening, and i drank it on the third day. Am i going to die?

A: thats weird..mine usually say drink within 7 days for best day

but unless it was lumpy, you wont get a stomach ache or anything…your good

Q: Cow’s milk started to make my son feel sick should I switch to soya milk instead?
Noah’s three years old and recently he’s started feeling sick when he drinks milk, he complains that his stomach hurts when he drinks milk. He doesn’t like yogurt – he doesn’t like the texture of it. He’s not keen on cheese either, he’ll eat it but only sometimes like maybe 2-3 times a month. Should I try him on soya milk instead to get his calcium?
It’s hard to find Goat’s milk where I live. Soya milk is easier to find.

A: Why not try goats milk?

Q: Does Soya Milk have the same nutrient value as what normal milk has?
- I am a vegetarian and would like to turn vegan …i am really just trying it and got Chocolate soya milk today…it was surprising nice..
Also if i don’t take normal milk does that mean i have to stop some chocolate bars as it has whole milk powder in it?
Also if i don’t take normal milk does that mean i have to stop some chocolate bars as it has whole milk powder in it?

A: I’m not vegetarian or vegan, but switched to soymilk a couple of years ago for lower fat/calories. Since then I’ve found almond milk, which is even lower in cals (about 60 per cup) so that’s now my milk of choice…anything to minimize my calorie intake in an easy way. ☺

Compare labels basically, and see what vitamins and nutrients are in each, and what your daily diet requires so you’ll know which would be more beneficial…or take a good multivitamin daily and it’s less of an issue (as long as what you’re consuming isn’t downright unhealthy).

Q: Which one do you prefer most, regular milk or soya milk?
I have to go with soya milk. It tastes nicer than regular milk. I only use regular milk for my cereal. I only use soya milk for drinking. I like soya milk better. Which one do you like better? You can choose both if you want.

Have a nice day!
It’s okay Countrygal not everyone should like what i like.
‘cuz it good’ means…? Standard English please!

A: I prefer rice milk above both of them. It is satisfying as an ingredient, and I usually don’t drink milk by itself. It is great as a milk substitute in cereal and recipes though.

Q: Why is my soya milk curdling?
I’ve just started moving from cow milk to soya.

This morning I opened the carton to make myself a cup of coffee and as soon as I added the hot water, the ‘milk’ curdled. Why?

Has it gone off?

I sniffed it to check and it smelled ok (I’d only just opened the carton, but you never know), then remembered it’s not likely to smell like off cow milk – so not sure whether it’s ok or not.

I tasted a little bit on its own, and although it tasted SLIGHTLY different to what I’d had before I just put that down to the fact I’d bought a different brand. It didn’t taste particularly unpleasant.

What should I look for when checking if it’s gone off?

A: It’s fine, don’t worry. As long as the date on the carton is ok and it hasn’t been open for more than 5 days it won’t kill you. I only use Alpro soya milk and never has it curdled when making a cuppa! Enjoy your tea

Q: question about being low in vitamin b12?
i am 18 and have felt really sick all summer. i just found out my b12 level is very low from taking metformin. could a low b12 level cause chronic stomach pain, especially after i eat, extremely nauseaous in my head and stomach and im extremely tired all the time.
help? please? i leave for college thursday and want to feel better!

A: Seek medical help as you may need Vitamin B12 supplements. Low levels of this vitamin may make you feel tingling in your feet on the long term and other unwanted effects.
Good luck

Q: What is low b12 and RBC a symptom of?
Outside of not eating things with the aforementioned in them. are there any diseases related to this?

A: Nutritional deficiencies ie not eating enough of B12 is rare but it does occur in vegans and what is more common are malabsorption syndromes like celiac disease, Crohn’s, bacterial over-growth, small-bowel lymphoma, history of gastric surgery,fish tapeworm infection or intrinsic factor related problems due to Pernicious anemia. Those with pernicious anemia can have a pale yellow skin tone. There are some false positive (low B12 not deficient states) such as a low folate level and so those two are usually ordered together and Methyl Malonic Acid (MMA) and Serum Homocysteine would be helpful in some clinical situations.

Additional testing is often needed in order to be certain on the cause along with a blood smear evaluation.

Q: I have low platelet for which I’m takeing b12 shots. I have a bruise on my body?
My platelet count went from 84000 to 74000 to 82000 to 68000 to 72000 and now 58000. It’s supposed that the low numbers are associated with low b12 and since it persists and has gotten so low viruses. Any comments? I get each month usually in one spot on my body black and blue bruise marks

A: B12 shots will not affect platelets. They are only good for pernicious anemia. You may have an idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura, and require a splenectomy. Get a doctor who knows the blood. I am a hematologist. MD

Q: I have Alopecia areata, the Dermatologist I saw last week detected very low B12 and high red cells in my blood
My hair has grown back, white and weak but lots of coverage. I also have onychomycosis, which I have not told my GP about yet! Many off my teeth have broken and I have noticed that I can not stay awake after meals high in Carbohydrates, I am worried to what all of this could mean. Any clues?
I am 36 years of age and no one else in my family has suffered from any thing like this.

A: Take good care of your self.

Q: does low b12 cause the same symptoms as fibromyalgia?
i was diagnosed with fibromyalgia and i have now been told i have low b12 and wa wondering if the low b12 could be whats causing the pain instead of fibromyalgia

A: B12 deficiency is extremely rare. Unless you are a strict vegan who eats no animal products, or you have a problem absorbing B12. People with problems absorbing B12 have problems producing intrinsic factor, or have disease of the small intestine.

Normal body stores last about 3-6 years of deficiency.

B12 deficiency causes megaloblastic anemia, and neurological dysfunction, as it disrupts DNA synthesis. The anemia looks like large red and white blood cells that are immature. This would also have shown up on the blood test too, if you had it.

If it worries you, I would eat more animal products (like milk, meat, cheese, yoghurt, fish) to boost your B12. You can also get a test called the Schilling test to test your absorption of B12

Q: I have a low b12 and ferritin levels and i am so pale what can i do?
I had a normal blood test (FBC) and that showed up i was wondering if anybody knew anything about this? The midwive and dr are on the case but i look so pale and breathless when i walk faster than normal. to top this off i also have cold grrrrrr
oh b12 is not thats sort of iron you cant get it from red meats and veggies and you cant take supplements!!! did a bit of research myself
my HB levels are 13.5 so it is fine it is a different kind of anemia

A: Also, until your levels are up or told otherwise, avoid strenous exercise at all costs…..

Q: Does anyone know how low your b12 level needs to be before it begins to effect you mobility?

A: Hi Vicki

Normal serum B12 levels are between 200 and 900 pg/ml.

You are clinically deficient and will start to develop symptoms when it falls to below 100 pg/ml.

Q: if my B12 is low would myoxygen sats be low?
my oxygen sats have been 99-100 I have a B12 of 119 and iron 8.8 but imvery short of breath, would my oxygen sats still be normal and the low levels still cause the shortness of breath???
I have seen a dr iamon iron and B12 but i want to know if it could cause shortnessof breath and still have normal oxygen sats?

A: Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
The normal blood level of vitamin B12 ranges between 200 and 600 picogram .

Normal Results

Iron: 60-170 mcg/dL
TIBC: 240-450 mcg/dL
Transferrin saturation: 20-50%

Note: mcg/dl = micrograms per deciliter

Lower-than-normal levels may mean:

Chronic gastrointestinal blood loss
Chronic heavy menstrual bleeding
Poor absorption of iron
Not enough dietary iron
Pregnancy

Based on the above normal levels of Vit B12 and Iron, you have Vit B12 ( Megaloblastic anemia) and Iron deficiency anemia.

Anemia refers to a deficiency of red blood cells (RBCs) and/or hemoglobin. This results in a reduced ability of blood to transfer oxygen to the tissues, causing hypoxia and thus shortness of breath. even though, your 02 Sat is WNL. So the doctor is right in putting you on this regimen.

Diet and Anemia – Consumption of food rich in iron is essential to prevention of iron deficiency Anemia; however, the average adult has approximately nine years worth of B12 stored in the liver, and it would take four to five years of an iron-deficient diet to create iron-deficiency Anemia from diet alone.

Iron-rich foods include red meat; green, leafy vegetables; beans; dried apricots, prunes, raisins, and other dried fruits; almonds; seaweeds; parsley; whole grains; and yams. In extreme cases of Anemia, researchers recommend consumption of beef liver, lean meat, oysters, lamb or chicken, or iron drops/tablets may be introduced. Certain foods have been found to interfere with iron absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, and these foods should be avoided. They include tea, coffee, wheat bran, rhubarb, chocolate, soft drinks, red wine, ice cream, and candy bars.. With the exception of milk and eggs, animal sources of iron provide iron with better bioavailability than vegetable sources .

Q: I have low ferritin 3 and heamaglobin is fine B12 is low aslo what does this mean??
my doctor said it was the lowest ferritin count she had ever seen i dont eat a lot of meat but i do sometimes . Can anyone else help explain it. also the b12 is low and eat plenty of food with b12 in it
i do not have anemia, thats why I am asking for info. Anemia is a reduction in your heamaglobin which I dont have. and i have had liver test that was normal

A: Well, the worry with low iron and B12 is anemia. Anemia is basically decreased blood oxygen. Your body needs iron to carry oxygen to your body. When you breath oxygen into your lungs, the iron grabs the oxygen and carries it to all the different tissue in your body. So, if you don’t have enough iron, your body isn’t getting enough oxygen.

Pernicious anemia is related to decreased B12. In order to make Red Blood Cells, the body needs B12. When there isn’t enough B12, the Red Blood Cells are not made.

The iron deficiency could be caused by many things such as not eating enough iron rich foods in your diet or heavy menstrual periods. B12 deficiency can be caused by insufficient absorption– your body isn’t absorbing it in the intestine. Some doctors order B12 injections.

I would just tell you to meet with your doctor again to find out what your options are before you start taking any vitamin suppliments.

Q: I have extremely low B12, I am 16 weeks pregnant is there any risks to my unborn baby?

A: You should be taking pregnancy vitamins right threw the pregnancy, the best ones are called Elevit. The midwife should have told you this.

Q: I have very low vitimin B12, what does that mean?
I have a healthy diet and I’m 27. Do I have to get an injection or something?
Yes I went to the nurse to get a blood test for other things and it got flagged as low. I am a ‘he’ btw.

A: Typically vegans suffer from low B12. I have low B12 levels and I’m not vegan.

I have to get injections every 2 months, but you might need them more often.
I’m sorry to say that the injections aren’t pleasant. The liquid they inject is very syrupy and thick. When you get the injection, ask the nurse to push on the spot she’s going to put it into quite hard before she injections. That’s what my nurses did. It gets the pain receptors ready and doesn’t hurt so much.

EDIT- Answer below, the only way you can find out if you have low B12, is by doing a blood test, so I’m assuming the person asking this has done that. When I was notified about having low B12 the nurse just rung. She didn’t tell me what that’d mean. Maybe the person asking is just wondering in the mean time. I don’t think she should “not listen to answers on here” as some people are helpful and I’ve been through what she’s asking about.

…

Q: Can low b12 be passed down to kids?
Im 17 nhave a terrible amune sistem my mom has low b12n needs needles few times a month would that be why im si sick all the time?

A: It can be definitely. If your mom has to get B12 shots, it’s possible she’s missing intrinsic factor, which is necessary to absorb B12 into your system from the digestive tract – therefore it has to be injected directly. It’s called Pernicious anemia and it’s genetic.

So, yes, it can – you would have to be tested to find out.

Q: I have a low B12 question?
I have a low B12 and have had medical “issues” for years now but have gone mis and undiagnosed… the only thing that I have is a diagnosis of low B12 and lots of other symptoms that all fit under a broad range of illnesses. I have been doing research and was wondering if anyone else has any correlation between a low B12 and the autoimmune diseases.. such as fibromyalgia or MS or even Lupus… looking forward to your reply

A: I also have low b12, well I did until I had the shots. I’m not vegan but apparently some people don’t absorb it as well as others.

I have fibromyalgia as well as chronic fatigue syndrome. I havn’t been tested for MS but my ANA levels were high so it’s likely that I’ll develop Lupus.

I don’t know any correlation between the two, but I have both. See if you can get a referral to a specialist.

Good luck!

…

Q: i was recently told i have very low b12 its at 111,
i have had problems with my legs now for about 2 years where i cannot lift them past a certain point,and past about 5 months have a movement tic
i have been seen by a nuerosurgeon cause they thought was due to spinabifida occulta but full body mri has come back fine
the nuerologist i am seeing now and the local doctor states its more then likely chemical imbalance in my head
is a count of 111 really bad?
should i be having injections instead of tablets?
plus i have been told i do not have a deficiency and by the looks of it there not doing any more testing to see why my b12 is so low
should i be seeking another doctor as the b12 tablets are only 100mg tablets?
after 2 years of having these problems i am still to find what is causing the problems with my legs

A: Get a second opinion. It may be that there is no identifiable cause for your symptoms but it never hurts to have a 2nd opinion. Perhaps get a referral to an immunologist or Haematologist.
But be respectful to your G.P when asking for it. They may have very good reasons to suspect nothing is wrong but you also have valid reasons for suspecting there is.

Q: low b12 and pregnant….any midwives / docs?
hi…ive just found out that my b12 level is 190, im 19 weeks pregnant…is this really low?…i cant get through to my doctor for a couple of days…do u think i would have to have injections?….thanx

A: Have you tried taking B complex or something like that? I, personally would try that before I took an injection. I think that is a fairly low level. When I searched the web, people were talking about 500s as their levels.

Are you anemic? Because B12 affects the utilization of Iron.

Anyway, here are some food sources of B12 that you may want to bring into or include more of in your diet:
soybeans
wheat germ
meat
milk
cheese
fish
whey
brewer’s yeast
almonds
carrots

And, here are some potential depletors of B12 levels:
laxatives
alcohol
antibiotics
aspirin
diuretics
antacids
tobacco
caffeine
estrogen
sleeping pills
contraceptives
intestinal parasites
cooking of foods (removes a lot of vitamins and minerals)

I know you probably aren’t using half of the depletors, but I thought I would list them anyway.

Q: Best Multivitamin?
I am a 20 year old girl and trying to find a multivitamin can someone tell me which would be the best, at a moderate price?

A: OMG – I’m so glad you asked this because now I can tell you the best multivitamin out there for a woman.

LEVITY!

I never really believed in the power of a vitamin until I started taking this. You can find it at Fred Meyer, Rite Aid, Walgreens and nutrion stores for under $10 bucks.

Q: best multivitamin?
im a 19 year old college student, fairly active, terrible eater, and vegetarian … wats the best multivitamin for me?

A: Women’s One a Day (or the generic equivalent) is a good daily multivitamin.

Q: What is the best dog daily multivitamin?
I have a 3 year shihtzu and i want to buy the best multivitamin with antioxidant for her, what should i buy?
could you show me the links of amazon?

A: Too much supplementation can create medical problems, so if you are feeding a good kibble, supplements are not necessary.
You can access amazon here;

http://www.amazon.com

Q: What is the best multivitamin for teenage athletes?
I’m 15 and would like to know which multivitamin product is best. I play football so lifting is very important and I’m also taking protein supplements

A: Most middle- or upper-class residents of first-world nations get all the necessary vitamins in their diets. Since you posted this on Yahoo Answers, I’m assuming you have a computer and this thus describes you. Any multivitamin supplements will just be excreted by your kidneys.

Q: Best multivitamin?
I know this is asking a lot, but is there a multivitam that contains all the essential nutrients at the RDA level, or at the very least, the below nutrients.

I know I can buy individual supplements to catch each of the nutrients listed below, but if there was say 1 or 2 multivitamin tablets that contained all the nutrients, that would be great.

flavonoids
magnesium
calcium
vitamin D
vitamin E
Vitamin A
vitamin C
Glucosamine
Chondroitin
Bromelain
Folate
B6
B12
Niacin
L Carnitine
Resveratrol
SAME
Selenium
Saw Palmetto
L Arginine
L Citrulline
Lutein
DHA
Beta Carotene
Zinc
Copper
Garlic
Cinnamon
Potassium
Selenium
Omega 3

A: just take individual supplements don’t think you will find all that in one vitamin

Q: What is the best multivitamin to take?
I’m always really tired; I think I might have an iron deficiency. Also, I’ve got spots on my face and body. I don’t want to buy lots of different vitamin supplements. What is the best and most effective multivitamin to take?

A: I only take Nature made for women because it’s easy on my stomach and I’m often anemic. My doctor had me start eating watermelon too to build up my iron levels. I’m a new vegetarian (my teenage son is a Buddhist so I do it to support his decision) and my iron level dropped quick because I haven’t got the whole diet thing right yet and don’t like dark leafy greens like he does. I would honestly try changing your diet as well as taking the vitamins, your body will absorb the nutrients better through food.

Q: What is the best multivitamin or vitamin supplements to take on a VLCD (Very Low Calorie Diet)?
What is the best multivitamin to take when on a very low calorie diet? Or are there multiple vitamins I should look into?

Thanks!

A: pre natal vitamins are the best for any girl (even when not pregnant)
can get generic versions cheap at any pharmacy…check into it!
they’re good for your hair, skin and nails too!

Q: what is the best multivitamin to take and do they all have minerals in them?
I am wanting to start to take a multivitamin with minerals, but do they all contain minerals when it just says multivitamin, and which brands are the best?

A: There are many people who is trying to make money by selling on shelves vitamins that are a waste of your money but if you want to have the best one recommended by a Nutritionist try ‘Rainbow Light” or “Twice Daily”. You may find it in the “Whole Foods Store” or “Vitamin Shop”. Many of the other ones or a waste and your better off taking “Flintstones children vitamin” and i am serious. If you cant get the other 2, get Flintstones. Thats how bad alot of the vitamins are. And Flintstone is Good too but for a child Pediatrician Recommened. If you are an adult you need more in your system to do the job thats why i am not recommending flintstones.

Q: What is the best multivitamin to take during pregnancy (in Australia)?
I am 6 weeks pregnant and need to start a multivitamin but not sure which brand is best. Thanks!

A: I took elivit, everyone raved about it and its also the most expensive, which in a werid way makes us mums think its the best for our bubs lol
But blackmores has a good reputation also.
Id have a talk with your gp they have a pretty good idea on whats the best for you.
Good luck

Q: What is the best multivitamin available for a grown (18+) male?
With all the studies to do with health and fitness these days its become apparent that not all multivitamins are equal, some even grossly inadequate. What brands work best for you?

A: GNC megamen

….I think they are a wste of money though as long as your diet is good.

Q: What is the best multivitamin? (no fillers, etc.)?
I’ve heard that the multivitamins at Wal-Mart and most stores contain fillers and aren’t that effective. What is the best multivitamin in your opinion?

A: I can give you the name of the worst All Synthetic One. “Centrum”!

But the best? All natural and absorbable?

It is extremely hard as there is at least 20 of the best ones around our world.

The article from Red Angel makes sense and is one way to follow.
The other, is to speak with your Health Food store manager and ask him for one which is all natural.

Be careful but – they aren’t cheep.

Q: what’s the best multivitamin for a woman who’s trying to lose weight?
I’m 24, just joined a fitness center and got a personal trainer to lose baby weight and now I’m curious to know what’s the best multivitamin for me to take. I’ve never taken them before so I’m new to this kind of stuff.

A: *Ask your personal trainer. That’s what you’re paying him for! There is, you know, no vitamin that will make you lose weight, right? A multi vitamin is a multi vitamin. I like Theragram M because they have all the vitamins AND minerals you need. But, like I said, ask your personal trainer — let him earn his money. He’s there to advise you and not just help you to exercise.

Q: I work graveyard shift, from 2am to 11am. What’s the best multivitamin to take?
My friends and workmates told me that I should take a multivitamin because I work graveyard shift. What’s the best one to take, and what other advice can you give me on getting enough sleep, since I’m having a hard time getting some sleep during the day.

A: There are thousands of nutritional supplements in the market and you can take any one of them.
But in terms of quality some will stand out from the others.
I am taking USANA Essentiale which contain the highest and complete doses of the required vitamins and micronutrients that the body needs.

Q: What is the hands down best multivitamin?
Best multivitamin on the market rite now

A: GNC Mega Men Performance & Vitality multivitamins. They target every part of a mans body from head to toe! Great for working out and gives you that extra push if you know what I mean. Check them out on GNC.com its breaks it all down for you.

Q: What is the best multivitamin for a young woman trying to lose weight?
There are alot of multivitamins out there and some are pretty expensive. What do I really need? I am trying to exercise and eat right. I was told that a great multivitamin can also be a great part of the plan to lose weight and get fit. Is there a place inline where I can get multivitamins cheaper?

A: Just take like a Centrum one a day vitamin. Anything that has 100% of Vitamins on the back, especially Iron and calcium since you are female. Try to eat your daily servings of veggies and fruits to make sure you get all of your daily nutrients.

Q: What vitamins (B6/B12) or multivitamin is good to take if I want strength and energy?
I am always feeling week during the day and tired even if I get enough sleep at night.
So I am looking for something to to give me strength and energy cause I am doing weightlighting and just want to be strong and alert.

A: Today that doesn’t really matter anymore.
Just don’t take the cheapest vitamins and see that you get all of them, because each vitamin has its’ purpose.

Vitamins do not make you strong.
Cutting back on coffeine (pop(soda), coffee) will make you weaker on a short outlook, but will improve you later.

Sitting around all day will weaken you or make you tired.

If you just need muscle strength, then it’s protein.
ATP a sugar/ phosphat is the main energy source of ALL your cells. If you feel sore or week it will help, but wont do wonders.

Also fat will make you tired. Try a low fat/ high carbs, high protein diet.

Use supplementary stuff only if you really need to and visit some nutrition forums, they will help.

6-8 house a week will greatly improve everything.

I hope it is one of those things and i could help.

Q: Is vitamin B6, B12, and folic acid good for brain development?
Like for memory in short term and long term

A: Yes that’s what I’ve read. I take a supplement that includes B12 and folic acid

Q: What vitamins that contain A,B3,B5,B6,B12,C,E and more…?
A,B3,B5,B6,B12,C,E,
Biotin,
Calcium
,Copper,
Institol
,Iodine
,Iron,
Magnesium,
Maganese
Potassium, Selenium, Silica, Sulfur, Zinc. I know it may not contain in one tablet, maybe 2 or 3 types, but do you know of any?
Thats all, Thanks

A: I highly recommend these vitamins: http://pkenstad.gnld.net/store/Product.aspx?NAV_CATEGORY_ID=3230&CATEGORY_ID=1252&PRODUCT_ID=10007&ATTR=nutrition they are really good quality and contain a lot of the nutrients you mentioned. Some of the other vitamins on this website may contain the rest of them. I can look them all up later if you are really interested, just email me at brittagnld(at)yahoo.com

Q: Is it OK to take Vitamin B6, B12, and Biotin together?
I’m trying to give my self more energy and make my hair grow long and healthy…
Thanks

A: No problem whatever. If you take 1, 2 or 3 of the B vitamins in very large amounts it could create an imbalance with the other B vitamins so in some cases you might also need a B complex to avoid such an imbalance.

Q: How do a Person get Dificiency in Vitamins B6 or B12?
When a Person start to take High Vitamins B6 or B12, slowly symtom like weakness in foot or pin and needle feeling in the body appear.

IS this Dificiency?

A: Vitamin B12 deficiency is caused by either a dietary lack of B12, which is present in meats or second possibility is lack of a substance called intrinsic factor that is necessary for the body to absorb and use B12. Lack of IF and consequent B12 deficiency is known as pernicious anemia. You can also have B12 deficiency anemia because of inadequate intake through diet. B12 is important for nerve health. I’m not a doctor, but I suspect that taking a lot of B12 and B6 could require your body to need less intrinsic factor. So your body might downregulate its production. It doesn’t seem that likely that a person would develop a deficiency from taking too much, but I know that is the case with other diseases and medical conditions caused by steroid use. If artificially introduced testosterone gets injected into the body, the body does make less naturally. This is also why the male testis shrink (because they realize they are not needed because so much testosterone is present. Well, I’m not sure I answered your question, hopefully I told you something interesting. I think my explaination for the B12 deficiency is possible. Didn’t all the pro athletes accused of using anabolic steroids use the excuse that they thought they were receiving B12. Wow, thats coincidence. Totally unrelated, just a coincidence that my explanation included both. Take care.

Q: What does B6 and B12 do in my situation?
I have a case of shin splints in my left leg and was told by quite a few physical trainers that I should take b6 and b12 everyday to resolve my issue. That along with not running and sticking to bicycle/elliptical training for 5-6 weeks until they are healed. What i’m wondering though is, what does b6 and b12 do to help shin splints?

A: article listed should help but in short b6,9,12 are used to help treat Osteoporosis along C and K. it wont resolve you issue but will help limit them.

i get shin splints often no matter what i try to prevent them. So for cardio Im stuck with non-impact cardio, ie swim elliptical etc.

Q: Which of the following characteristics is shared by vitamins B6, B12, C, and Folate?
a. Prevention of Anemia
b. Required for glycolysis
c. Required in microgram quantities
d. Found in citrus products and legumes

A: All of these vitamins are needed for the prevention of anemia.

Best wishes and good luck.

Q: what are the sources that a vegetarian can get vitamins B6 and B12?
A vegetarian requires complete proteins and these 2 vitamins to supply a proper diet. What are the plant sources of these 2 vitamins, B6 and B12? One may also supply information on EFAs (Essential Fatty Acids).

A: The best vegetarian source of a complete protein are soy foods such as soybeans, soymilk, tofu, tempeh and miso.

Plant sources of B6 are Brewer’s yeast, carrots, peas, spinach, sunflower seeds, walnuts, wheat germ, avocado, bananas, black beans, broccoli, brown rice, cabbage, cantaloupe, corn, potatoes, and rice bran.

Plant sources of B12 include tempeh, sea vegetables such as dulse and kombu, Brewer’s yeast, and tofu.

Essential fatty acids are the basic building blocks of which fats and oils are composed which are necessary for health and cannot be made by the body. They improve the skin and the hair, reduce blood pressure, aid in the prevention of arthritis, lower cholesterol levels, and reduce risk of blood clot formation.

Vegetarian EFA sources include flaxseeds and flaxseed oil, grape seed oil, and primrose oil

Q: Some one told me about about taking phentermine with sugar shoots and b6 b12 to lose weight. Is this safe?
I just started working at a front desk at a gym and a trainer told me about this method to lose weight. I told me he sent eight of his clients to a quack doctor to get these products (phentermine, b6 b12, and sugar shoots). One lady lost 30 lbs in 3 weeks, 16 lbs. in 2 weeks. this sounds too good to be true. someone please help me with some more information regarding taking all these things together. Also this might be a dumb question but what exactly is a quack doctor. He has his own office to pick up the drugs without a prescription.

A: The only safe and effective way to lose weight is to watch what you eat and to exercise. If you do not change your lifestyle, any weight you lose with any fad will come right back plus some and will most likely damage your body in the meantime.

Q: how much of B6 and B12 are you supposed to take?
I was wondering how much can you take vitamins B6 B12 a day? and can you take them with other vitamins as well? Does it really matter when to take the vitamins? Can you take B6 B12 and other vitamins all at once?

A: Be careful with the B6, it not natural but is a synthetic is a nerve conductor and can be dangerous.
Wise health advisers suggest not more than 50mg a day.
You can have an allergic reaction to B6 when taking too much by itself. Some side effects are, sore throat, muscle cramps and false symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis.
You should never take any one portion of a vitamin complex solely by itself. If you need to take an increased dose of B6, then get a bottle of B-Complex to go with it.
Yes, you can take it with other vitamins.

Q: Wbat are the metabolic effects of vitamin B6 and B12?
Just curious what does B6 and B12 do exactly to speed up metabolism?

A: These vitamins do NOTHING to “speed up metabolism”.

B12 is a cofactor for two enzymes in humans.

1) Methionine Synthase requires B12 (and folate) to remethylate Homocysteine to Methionine in the Methionine cycle.

2) Methylmalonyl CoA mutase converts L-methylmalonyl CoA to succinyl CoA. This process is involved in the metabolism of methionine, isoleucine, threonine and odd-chain fatty acids.

Vitamin B6 is associated with over 100 enzymes, most of which are involved in amino acid metabolism. It also plays non-enzymatic roles in the action of steroid hormones and gene expression.

Best wishes and good luck.

Q: Weight Loss and Vitamine B6 & B12 Injections?
I am mildly overweight for my body type.

I understand that Vitamine B6 & B12 injections can be taken for fat matabolism in addition to a low calorie diet and regular excersise. I further understand that the injections are to focus on the fat matobolism of a specific area of the body.

Can anyone throw light on the procedure, dose, blend, or combination and frequency of the vitamine injections for this purpose.

AP

A: Have you seen the needles they use for those injections, I could only hang through 2 then I found a natural way to get my B12.

Well this has been working for me, I have lost 27 lbs already.
1) Control your portion size.
2) Try to excercise more
3) Reward yourself every 5 lbs you lose
4) Took a all natural/organic supplement with high proteins and B-12 called Klamath Blue Green Algae. I take 4 a day 2 in the morning & before dinner.

This combination has been great for me, hope it helps you. Ill give you a link if you want to check it out.
Blessings

Q: Is there any risk in taking B6 and B12 together?
Meaning, as part of B complex or taking them separately, is there any harm in taking both of them together.

A: No…not at all

both are water soluble, so you can’t even OD on them

Q: Is the Vitamin B1+B6+B12 is a growth vitamin?
I am 16 yrs. old and my height is 5′3 1/2 and I am trying growth vitamin, my father bought me that vitamin in my question and he said it is the vitamin for growing and it is the cause why his cousin became tall

A: All the above listed vitamins will do is protect you immune system. People grow at different rates. A good rule of thumb is that at age 12 you are 80% of you adult height that will occur around age 25.

So let’s say you were 5′ at age 12

X * .8 = 5′

X = 6′ 3″

So quit worrying.

WR

Q: Vitamin B6 & B12 question! Help, please?
Hi, well my Mom is making me take vitamin B6 and B12 and lately I’ve been noticing that I’ve been getting a little chubbier and wanted to know if this vitamin could have something to do with this. I read that when people have low caloric intake it converts carbs to glucose to maintain sugar levels so I was wondering if this means it creates calories. Does this vitamin make you gain weight?
Or make you fatter?

A: b-12 helps give you energy. b-6 is used by the body in muscle production. if you’ve gained weight its probably a little muscle. nothing to worry about at a young age. muscle actually helps you burn more calories if you stay active. b-12 has also been linked to premature greying hair so keep taking it if you wanna keep your color longer.

Q: Is it ok to do without B12 supplements if our B12 level is okay?
I get regular checkups to make sure my B12 level is okay (at least once a year). However, I have ran into other vegans who tell me I still need to be taking supplements. Could someone tell me why in the world you would need to take B12 supplements if you B12 level checks out okay?
cagedbird88, did you even read my question??? I just said I was getting plenty of B12 and I didn’t need to take supplements. I wish there was an option to give you the worst answer because you would definitely win that one. Gosh, some people are so ?%#$@$
Wiz, the only way is by injection??? Are you really that @#@$# I don’t know why I even bother asking.

A: If your B12 levels are OK, you don’t need to take supplements.

I think that caged bird has a point – it must be better to obtain your vitamins & minerals from natural sources (ie food) rather than synthetic sources (ie supplements).

Q: I just started taking B12 supplements, does it increase your appetite?
I need some help! I have started taking B12 supplements and I have noticed that I am hungry all the time. Does it increase your appetite?
Will this change anytime soon. I believe I have gained weight and that is something that I am not interested in..

A: I know what you mean I was doing the same thing and it made me feel that way to. I think its just because your brain knows that it is supposed to help your metabolism and you are most likely to lose wieght that it makes you feel that you are hungry.

Q: What have been your experiences with B12 supplements?
Hi,

this question is esp. for vegans/vegetarians but is also for anyone else who has taken B12. What’s been your experience with B12? How much did you take, in what form, and what were the benefits/side effects?

thnkx!

A: Not vegetarian/vegan, but don’t prefer red meats or pork. B12, not alone, but as part of a B Complex, currently B50. It is part of a complete B addition to my diet, and I noticed that with the complete set of Bs, including extra Biotin daily, I have increased energy and alertness.

Part of the reasoning for adding a B complex: I don’t do enriched products, and can’t get as many whole grains as I’d like, so that is why I supplement Bs. It has only been a recent addition, in the last year, as indicated by healthy signs. I used to be able to do a full garden and no supplements, but recent weather, move and family changes have made that impossible to maintain. When we get settled and return to full gardens and local, fresh food availability, I will probably stop again.

The only side effect I’ve noticed is yellow urine. I only take once a day, and never near bedtime.

Q: Can B12 supplements help someone gain weight?
I’m 6 feet tall and weigh 135 pounds. I would like to be about 180. I got the idea for B12 from Roger Clemens.

A: the only way you are going to put on 45 pounds would be to either over eat and get fat or to join a gym and start lifting weights and gain muscle. forget the B12 it may be healthy for you but you are not going to gain weight from taking it. i suggest you join a gym and start going regularly. consistency is the key. its going to take alot of dedication and hard work so dont expect to see results overnight. it could take 2-3 years to put on 45 lbs of muscle. just make sure you are putting your all into every workout. you also need to be getting alot of protein in your diet and i suggest whey protein powder which they sell at all nutrition stores and they even have it at wal mart. sleep is a key factor in muscle growth because theat is when your body is actually building muscle. so at least 8 hours a night

Q: Do i need to take a B12 supplements?
My doctor said its in between med and low level and told me to eat more vegetables,more fish. i asked him if i still need the B12 supplements?
oops and he says no

A: hmmm – if the doctor said no then its obviously not an immediate drastic health threat so you could get enough of it through diet alone. HOWEVER a lot of the B12 foods are in organ meats which i doubt many people enjoy eating so you may be better off supplementing it. Most naturopaths consider lower levels of vitamins something to be improved for *optimum* health.

Q: B12 supplements cause some weight loss?
I have a B12 definciency, and I have to take supplements. I’ve heard this can cause some weight loss?

A: its a vitamin that can help in losing weight but its not a diet pill

Q: Vegans, you will take Vitamin B12 Supplements, but you will not eat honey?
I’m just trying to understand since B12 comes from animal protein correct?
I’m a new lacto-ovo vegetarian

A: No, B12 does not come from animal protein. It comes from micro-organisms, primarily bacteria. Animals get B12 by eating food and soil contaminated with these micro-organisms, and therefore it ends up getting stored in their system. However, the vegan vitamin supplements do not get the B12 from animals, they use it directly from the source, the micro-organisms.

Q: How can a (semi-)vegetarian get enough B12 WITHOUT taking supplements?
The only animal products I eat are eggs, fish, and honey, but everyone says “you need meat to get B12″. What are some ways to get B12 WITHOUT eating “meat meat”(and if you consider eggs and fish “meat meat”, keep nice about it please) or taking supplements?

A: You can get b12 from fish and eggs and if you include it,dairy. You can also get it from spirulina and flax seeds/oil

Don’t believe the one who says “spinach”. You need to eat 23 cups of spinach a day to meet your daily b12 requirements. And most b12 from veggies are analouges.

Take supplements if you think you need them.
By the way, if you are old enough before you became “semi vegetarian”, you have enough b12 in your body for at least 20 to 30 years. B12 is recycled/reused by the body.

Q: Is Folic Acid + B12 supplements able to improve sleep or have a calming effect?
I know the benifits as far as heart and cardio stuff,….. But my mom’s herb doc. told her it will improve her sleep… I also noticed that some CoQ10 brands have FolicAcid + B12 and I wonder if they add that in to take the edge off of CoQ10 because sometimes it enegizes too much(talking about CoQ10) …. thanks

A: But B12 also needs B6 and Calcium to assimilate effectively and Calcium needs Vitamin D3 to be effectively assimilated, sooo, take a chelated (easier on the digestive system) calcium tablet that has vitamin D3 in it. Also take a magnesium tablet ~ as they work together ~ together with the calcium a half hour before bed time♥

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) and Vitamin B3 (Niacin) work together to produce the brain chemical serotonin, which is essential for restful REM sleep, so take a multi B complex supplement that includes all the B’s ie ~ B1, B2, B3, B5, B6 and B12.

Have a soothing cup of organic loose leaf chamomile tea ~ this could be the sleep remedy you need too♥

For more difficult insomnia, try 1mg of melatonin sublingually (dissolved under the tongue) 15 minutes before bedtime♥any good health food store will be able to provide you with all these things♥

Sweet dreams♥

CHEERS
♥

Q: Where can i get vitamin B12 supplements?
And how much are they?
And how often do i need to take them?
BTW I’m 14 and i live in the US

A: Are you vegan? Because vegetarians get the B-12 they need from eggs, dairy and enriched foods.

Many foods are enriched with B-12 (fake meats, cereals, non-dairy milks, etc.)

Other then that you can take nutritional yeast or go to a health store and ask about b-12 pills.

Q: Do Vitamin B12 supplements have side effects?
My face felt very dry and red the same day I started taking these supplements. The bottle said that slight irritation could occur by won’t last.. Then after having problems breathing today I decided to lookin into it more. And this is what I found…..

Dermatologic: Itching, rash, transitory exanthema, and urticaria have been reported. Vitamin B12 (20 micrograms/day) and pyridoxine (80mg/day) has been associated with cases of rosacea fulminans, characterized by intense erythema with nodules, papules, and pustules. Symptoms may persist for up to 4 months after the supplement is stopped, and may require treatment with systemic corticosteroids and topical therapy.

A: Vitamin B supplements in general, especially those that contains Niacin can cause flushing of the skin. I would say that you might try a B complex without Niacin (B3) or a “No Flush” Niacin.

If you have breathing problems, I would quit taking immediately.

Q: Medical experts; are B12 supplements good for treating excessive sweat?

A: B12 injections are used to treat a specific type of anemia, called pernicious anemia. It occurs when the body is either unable to absorb B12 or lacks B12 in the diet. It is of no benefit to use B12 to treat any other kind of medical condition.

Q: Should I eat food with B12 supplements?
I was recently diagnosed with Vitamin B12 deficiency. What’s the best way to take B-12 supplements? Should I take all 3000mcg at once, or stagger throughout the day? Should I eat food, particulary meat with the supplement? Any other suggestions on how best to absorb?
Thanks in advance for your help.

A: B12 is water soluble, so you can take it alone with water. It is better to space out your doses throughout the day.

Q: B12 vitamin supplements; what are they good for?
I started taking them a while back but cannot remember why

A: Vegetarians really need to supplement B12, they have a hard time accessing it in their diet. I highly suggest B50 complex daily for energy. I can really tell a difference taking them. This has all the B vitamins.

Q: If B12 is “only found in animal products and bi-products”, how is a B12 supplement still okay with vegetarians?
I’m vegetarian and I want to make sure I can get my B12 but how do the supplements give us what we need without using the animals? If that makes sense.. Thanks for answering!

A: Vitamin B12 doesn’t come from animals. It comes from bacteria.
Companies take the B12 and fortify it in cereal, soymilk, almond milk, and ricemilk. You do not need tablets for Vitamin B12. That is a myth created by people who eat meat.

“Neither plants nor animals make vitamin B12. Bacteria are responsible for producing vitamin B12. Animals get their vitamin B12 from eating foods contaminated with vitamin B12 and then the animal becomes a source of vitamin B12. Plant foods do not contain vitamin B12 except when they are contaminated by microorganisms…”

http://www.vrg.org/nutrition/b12.htm

Q: What soy milk is fortified with vitamin B12 and suitable for vegans?

A: I think I mentioned it in my answer to your other question, but I get Vitasoy brand High Fibre soy milk. It’s fortified with Vitamin A, B2, B6, B12 and, of course, dietary fibre. I had a quick look at their website and it appears that no other vegan-friendly soy milk of theirs comes with Vitamin B12, but that’s not to say there aren’t other brands with more options.

I just looked it up, and Sanitarium’s So Good soy milk is vegan, and has the same amount of B12 as the Vitasoy. I can’t find any word of other brands with B12 though, at least not vegan ones.

Q: Does the B12 used to fortify soy milk come from animals?
Please advise.

Thanks.

A: Nope, it comes from a particular strain of healthy bacteria. The type which is good for the digestive system. In fact, when we get B12 from animal sources, it’s only there because the animal had that particular bacteria in its digestive system. Neither plants, nor animals, naturally produce B12; only micro-organisms (the bacteria) have the right enzymes to produce B12.

Also, I buy fortified soy milk (Vitasoy High Fibre), and it specifically says it’s suitable for vegans. They could suffer some nasty consumer repercussions for falsely claiming their products is vegan, so if it says it’s vegan on the package you know it’s okay. It can be misleading because companies like to put the “vegetarian” stamp on their products, but that doesn’t mean it’s vegan, as I found out when I got soy milk for “vegetarians” but it was fortified with Vitamin D3 from lanolin.

Q: if i heat soy milk over the stove w/out boiling it will it afect the vitamin b12? i know that microwaving can?

A: I wouldn’t ever take advice from cafe staffs. This link suggests that B12 is stable under heat (see the section on stability: http://www.vitamin-basics.com/index.php?id=48) however they also claim that it is only synthesised by bacteria in animal gut which is a crock of sh*t since it is found in algae such as nori (the seaweed they use in sushi rolls)

Q: If I am a vegetarian, must I drink soy milk?
I have recently turned a vegetarian and there are some vitamins and things I must have, such as B12. I dont know much about b12 – all I know is that you need it for your brain.

Is all/most soy milks B12 fortified?
How often should I drink soy milk?
Where else SHOULD I get soy milk?

Thanks very much
EDIT-
I am a full vegetarian. No meat, eggs or dairy.

Please don’t reply saying ‘Cows or goats milk’
Thanks & sorry if I sounded rude=(

A: Depends on what you mean by vegetarian. If you are eating eggs and dairy, you are getting B12. You only have to worry about B12 if you are a vegan (ie don’t eat eggs and dairy). You don’t have to drink soy milk if you don’t want to. If you are a vegan, you can get B12 from some fortified cereals, fortified nutritional yeast, some of the Naked Juices, etc. You could also take a supplement twice a week. Try not to take anything that is a ton of mgs. You only need approx 2 micrograms a day. B12 also gets stored in your system, so you aren’t about to keel over if you just transitioned to vegan.

You also don’t have to drink soy milk; there are others that you may like better. I personally like almond milk the best (Almond Breeze is tasty).

As for your questions:
- Many soy milks are fortified, but not all. Make sure you read the label.
- You don’t have to drink soy milk at all. However, if you are a vegan and are drinking it as your sole source of B12, check the label for how much of your daily allowance you get in one glass. If it’s 100% then drink a glass a day.
- You can get soy milk from most groceries these days. Try to find an organic brand because soy beans can be GMO in the US. You don’t want those franken-beans in your system. Check your fridge section by the milk. It also may be on the shelf in shelf stable boxes.

If you wanted to try almond, rice, hemp, etc. milk, those are typically found on the shelf and may be harder to find at your reg grocery. You’ll find a better variety at places like Whole Foods, Vitamin Cottage, Trader Joe’s, etc.

Hope that helps!

Q: What are some foods that contain b12?
I became a vegetarian 3 days ago, and I’m worried about not getting enough b12. I’ve heard milk contains b12 (but is it any milk? Because I hate soy milk), I’ve heard cheese contains b12 (once again, any kind?), and eggs do. Any other options and could you be specific? I’m really confused.

A: All animal products contain a natural source of vitamin B12, more than the minuscule amount we need to consume each day. Unless you’re going strictly vegan B12 is not something you need to worry about.

Q: Hw much b12 and vitamin D should I have?
I am going vegan and my Silk soy milk has 50% B12 in it and 30% vitamin d in it, how many cups (one serving) of soy milk should i have everyday to fit the daily requirement of b12 and vitamin D?

A: Daily need of B12 is about 2.5mcg.
even if you take 50mcg it will not over dose.

Most multivitamin has 10mcg/pill.
So it should be ok.

Q: What foods other than Milk, has Folic, Iron & Vitamin B12 for toddlers?
I was starting my toddler on Goat’s milk but i might not!! there are so many controversies about Milk that I am hesitant. Having said that I have the option of Soy milk although it lacks in V B12. So if there were no milk! What foods contain Iron (other than meat, since she’ll be raised vegetarian- we’re Jews and there are no Organic Kosher Meat so then no meat at all as i don’t feed my toddler anything that is not Organic. ) and what foods contain Folic & Vitamin B12?

Many thanks

A: So Nice organic soy has B12 ..50% the chocolate is yummy too.

Q: Vegans: How do YOU get your B12?
** ONLY VEGANS TO ANSWER ** // Stupid answers will be reported //

So i’ve been vegan for a while now and always thought i was getting enough of all the vitamins/mins but recently i heard that the one thing vegans miss out on is B12?! Especially organic vegans because theres B12 in the soil which is washed away etc… I dont quite understand it as its all new news, but just wondering if anyone could explain this whole situation to me (if im making any sense) and also let me know how YOU get a substantial amount of B12 a day, like what foods etc.

I know theres B12 in soy milk, tofu etc but apparently not enough..

Thank you!

A: *IF* there is B12 in soy, Miso, or any other from it is added in. This is called fortification. The only non animal source of B12 is temph. And that depends on the level of Klebsiella Pneumoniae to make it Bio-available to a human. Even T-6635+ (nutritional yeast, changing its name does not change what it is) is fortified. As Saccharomyces Cerevisiae does not make B12, even when genetically modified.

If you use supplements, sub-lingual or not, the source is most often animal based. Supplement or fortification it comes from and animal. Do not be confused by people posing about cobalamin. They are the names for B12 in its digestible forms. And just because you call it Hydroxocobalamin or cyanocobalamin they simply refer to B12 in its different forms, not where it comes from.

I doubt this will get high votes or even most people here will like what I say. Yahoo answers is based off popularity, not off truth. If you doubt anything I say by all means research it.

Q: Where do the nutrients and vitamins in Silk soy milk come from?
In the great debate between normal food consumption and veganism, constituents of the first group claim that there are deficiencies of calcium, B12, and other important nutrients in the diets of vegans and vegetarians. I drink Silk light chocolate soy milk and checked out the nutrition information (found here: http://www.thedailyplate.com/nutrition-calories/food/silk/light-soy-chocolate-milk ) and noticed that there are many nutrients in it, specifically calcium and B12. I am curious if they are derived from plant or animal sources.

A: Silk soy milk products are vegan.

The company’s website states in their FAQ, “Are Silk products vegan?
Yes, completely! There are no animal derivatives in our products. The lactic acid and live cultures used in Silk Live! soy yogurt come from a vegetable source. All vitamins used to fortify Silk soymilk are also vegetable-derived. The calcium used to fortify Silk soymilk comes from limestone. “

Q: what is up now ??? soy milk?
im reading that now too much soy milk is bad for me . i drink silk brand soy milk and i dont see any bad ingredients: filtered water ,whole soybeans,all natural evaporated cane juice,calcium cabonate,sea salt, natural flavors,carrageenan,vit a,vit d2,vit b12,riboflavin and palmitate.
ive read today toomuch soy causes cancer ? can someone tell me what is going on with all this thanx
mr share i hope ur using a school computer because it sounds like you can’t afford to be missing any days of school
thanx alot every1 especially lo mcg and also thats a good point about goin to american soy farmers but with the way other american farmers pollute the food ill b wary. ill look into that company and see if its organic and then ill try to find their products at the store. def want to buy american

A: There’s no actual scientific evidence that any food, including soya and milk, cause or contribute to any type of cancer. The exception is high consumption of red and processed meats, which is a known major risk factor for colorectal cancers.

Nobody knows what causes cancer; the finest scientific minds in the world whose life’s work it is to find out doon’t know yet – so you can be sure that if anyone tells you ‘X causes cancer’, they are repeating rumour and hearsay.

Soya proteins contain isoflavones that can mimic a weak oestrogen effect. It’s not the same as the oestrogen your own body makes though – it is 1,000 times weaker than your own body’s oestrogen, but it’s this that has led to concerns (and rumour) about soya and oestrogen dependent cancer and in particular about oestrogen positive breast cancer (not all breast cancer is oestrogen positive).

There are in fact those in the field who argue that isoflavones may be of help in preventing breast cancer or be beneficial to women who have had breast cancer.

There is current research into whether increasing phyto oestrogens in the diet helps to prevent breast or prostate cancer, and a study in 2002 found that women with the highest levels of soya products in their diets had the lowest breast density – higher breast density being associated with higher breast cancer risk.

Women with the highest levels of isoflavones in their diet are reported to have significant risk reductions for uterine cancer.

If you check any responsible and reputable breast cancer charity or information site, you won’t find soya consumption listed among the risk factors.

The charity Breakthrough Breast Cancer addresses the issue of soya quite thoroughly; you can download their factsheet. Note that it says:

”Because phyto-oestrogens can act like oestrogen they can have similar effects to oestrogen, but at high doses they may actually block the effects of oestrogen. ”

and

”Some studies found that regularly eating foods that contain phyto-oestrogens might lower the risk of breast cancer, whereas others found that they have no effect.”

http://breakthrough.org.uk/breast_cancer/breast_cancer_facts/publications/

Soya in moderation is fine.

Soya IS contraindicated for certain thyroid conditions, and obviously those with such conditions should avoid it. As far as I can tell, there is no suggestion that soya actually causes or triggers such conditions.

I’d draw a parallel with my own situation – as a diabetic I have to avoid or treat with caution a number of foods because of their high GI rating. These foods include healthy things like pineapple, beetroot and melon. No reason for someone without diabetes not to enjoy those foods; similarly, no reason for a person without a thyroid condition to avoid soya.

@Mr Share – have a look in any dictionary – a grown up one, now. You will find milk comes from MAMMALS; cows are just one example of a mammal. And your dictionary will include among its definitions of ‘milk’ something like this: ”any liquid resembling this [milk], as the liquid within a coconut, the juice or sap of certain plants, or various pharmaceutical preparations”

There now, you’ve learned a few things today.

Q: Has anyone an actual bad experience with soy?
You often hear how bad soy is and how it harms more than it helps. I drink a moderate amount of soy milk, about a liter a week. Dairy milk makes me sick.. I love the taste of soy milk plus it’s fortified with b12. I’m wondering how many people have had actual bad experiences with soy.. besides an allergic reactions that is.
crap i screwed up the title :p

A: Nope, I drink soymilk daily and use soy products fairly often, as we as people I know do and no problems. I know a few people allergic to soy or can not have it because of thyroid problems but that’s it. I had a LOT of bad experiences with dairy though.

Q: Do vegans necessarily have to take B12 supplements (in pill form)?
Or can they rely on 2 cups of soy milk and/or a few tablespoons of nutritional yeast per day and get sufficient B12.

A: This sort of question is best asked of your personal doctor vs. people that have no real knowledge about the current state of health that you are in.

I can tell you that my doctor, who is a vegetarian, wants me to supplement my diet with B12 (sublingual) at least once a week.

I can tell you also that a recent article was in “Vegetarian Times” about the need to supplement with B12, not only for vegetarian/vegans but meat eaters as well. The source is from 2008 and much more current than some of the sites that people like to give that are from years ago.

So, talk to your doctor. If you can’t afford to talk to a doctor, determine if you want to ‘play it safe’ and take a known needed nutrient that your body needs just in case you don’t take in enough of that needed vitamin. It doesn’t cost that much at all.

Bottom line is make the best choice for yourself since you are the one that is going to have to live with the choice and end results.

Q: Another B12 question!?!?!?!?
What else contains B12 besides meat and soy milk?!?! Just wondering!

A: Here is a site you can use to search for products and the nutritional value. Mostly cereal products are high in B12 and veg/vegan. Below are some foods in order of highest B12 levels.

Cereals

http://www.nutritiondata.com/foods-008116000000000000000-1w.html

Fats and oils

http://www.nutritiondata.com/foods-004116000000000000000-w.html

Q: What are a few vegan alternatives for cows milk for a 1 year old?
I have been using formula up til now and would like to create a vegan diet for my 1 year old. I am planning on using fortified rice milk for calicum and vitamins b12 and D. I am looking for non soy recommendations for protein and fat that i can add to the rice milk. Coconut butter and olive oil are fats that i have already incorporated in his diet. For protien i am using chlorella and possibly spirulina. Any vegan alternative suggestions are appreciated. thank you!

A: Today, it can be a very difficult to protect your child from a toxic environment.

There is solid scientific research from Norway showing an association between cow milk consumption in some infants and type I diabetes. Of course the best food for infants is human milk, but for a young child, you can puree fruits, vegetables, and other whole foods in a powerful blender, such as a VitaMix. Try to buy the highest quality organic whole foods. If you purchase nuts, make sure that they are able to sprout. If not, they may have been irradiated to improve shelf life. Hopefully, you can stay clear of genetically modified soy and corn products (they are not labelled as such in the US).

Be careful of commercial baby foods because they often contain carcenogentic substances like aspartame and other so called ‘natural flavors.’ You probably know that you should not use fluoridated water and dental care products with a young child.

And in the future, you’ll need to worry about vaccinations. Can you beliee that in my state, the legislature just approved the use of mercury in swine flu vaccines without notification of pregnant mothers an young children?

Q: Do you have to take pills as a vegetarian?
^. I don’t really want to, especially when I get older I don’t want any -bad- to come from taking a pill every day for iron/protein.

Also, does almond milk/ soy milk contain vitamin b12?

A: No. Please don’t be fooled into taking pills. They are completely unnecessary and can cause serious health problems later on in life. Just eat healthy foods that are rich in nutrients. Almond, soy, rice, and hemp milks all have B12, along with seaweed and sea vegetables.

Q: What vitamins can I take before going to bed to help me sleep better?
Calcium? Magnesium? B12/B6? Serotonin? Fish Oil?

A: serotonin although it is not a vitamin ,

Q: Can 5-HTP help with OCD and anxiety?
Hi
I’ve read that it can increase Serotonin levels. Also what about St Johns Wort and vitamin B complex (especially vitamin B12).
Also what doses?

A: This is a great course/product which helped me basically CURE myself of anxiety and stop it for good, check it out below:

http://tinyurl.com/qc6wg8

I highly recommend it, good luck.

Q: Bipolar, Complicated Situation, Does Anyone Have Ideas?
I suffer from Bipolar Disorder among many other illnesses.

I generally do not need medication, and self treat with diet, exercise, and over the counter supplements (folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12). I have the mental aspect of the illness under control as far as there is no need for counseling, etc. However, now, I am finding that I need some help boosting my Serotonin level (usually this happens every year and a half or so for a few weeks).

I do not have health insurance. I had a disability hearing that was approved for one year of benefits and MediCal to get more up to date evidence (I didn’t have insurance for a couple years), but SSI is dragging their feet on the paperwork, so I still do not have my MediCal.

I have called Walgreens, Walmart, CVS, and Rite Aid in store clinics, none of them will deal with mental health issues and write a prescription for mental health medication.

I have called 55 mental health offices in my area (private practices) and most of them only have appointments for new patients for around 3-5 1/2 months out due to waiting lists. The one I found that had an appointment wanted $600 for the office visit.

I called the county mental health clinic, they asked me for my social security number, and it was flagged due to the MediCal eligible thing, and they won’t make me an appointment.

I called MediCal they are still waiting for Social Security to stop dragging their feet.

I called Social Security, they only had my information in one of their two databases and there will be a 4-6 week more wait for the paperwork.

I tried calling my dad (he knows people in the Medical community), and the only thing he can get me is Effexor which I cannot take because it makes me suicidal.

The only prescription medications that I can take is Lithium for short term and Depakote E.R. for long term.

I’ve called old doctors, clinics, everywhere I can think of, and it’s all coming up empty. It’s all because of this dumb pending paperwork thing.

I am perfectly happy, but the depression is heavy right now (no real cause due to lifestyle, all due to serotonin levels).

Can anyone think of anything that I haven’t tried? Anyone know of anything over the counter? Or have any hope to get me thru this situation?

I am a very religious person, and that gets me thru many situations, but it does not balance out my serotonin levels. What am I to do?
I have not tried St John’s Wart. I’ve heard many discrepencies in studies, non of which were conclusive that it actually does work.

Also I am unable to look for work. I am completely disabled with Fibromyalgia, Bipolar Disorder, IBS with diarrhea, GERD, Esophagitis, undiagnosed abdominal pain, asthma, severe allergies, and many other illnesses that prevent me from living a normal life.

A: I commend you for the effort you’re putting forth in order to get help. I’m a bit surprised at the mental health departments in your area because the issue is now. You don’t have insurance now. You may apply in a week, two weeks or two years depending on the bureaucratic red tape, but you are asking for help now. I might pursue this a bit further.

If that still doesn’t work call the local treatment centers in your area because if they treat individuals for mental health they usely offer free meetings to people with your type of issues. How do I know is because I went to a treatment center and they had meetings to help patients as well as individuals from the outside.

I hope this helps even if it’s temporary. Whatever you do don’t give up. You deserve to be helped. God speed.

Q: Can i smoke marijuana to help calm temporary anxiety?
okay well last month (july) i took Ecstasy i took more than i should have (dubs) and late july i was suffering with bad bad anxiety and depression, its aug 28 i feel way better but still feel anxiety now, feeling thoughts non stop, and its not as bad as at first which re leaves me well ive been taking b12 – and b6 vitamins n it helps calm anxiety n the thoughts but still feel a tad bit unreal and don’t enjoy doing certain things anymore. cant concentrate. i also feel a lil weak but the thing is that i know this isn’t how i am because im very happy and energetic.

i know i will get better. i just want to know if marijuana can help calm some of those things for mean time like maybe a small about of puffs. and if there is the fastest way to gain serotonin. because i think that the Ecstasy wiped that shit out lol. so just let me know anything can help please and thank you.

A: Marijuana is also known to cause anxiety and panic attacks. It may help, or it may make it worse. You’ll have to try it to find out.

Q: What do you think is the most nutritious fruit and vegetable in the whole world?
I love fruits and vegetables much because these are good for my diet especially banana. I will share you something about banana. I received this e-mail from my friend in Japan.

Depression: According to a recent survey undertaken by MIND amongst people suffering from depression, many felt much better after eating a banana. This is because bananas contain tryptophan, a type of protein that the body converts into serotonin, known to make you relax, improve your mood and generally make you feel happier.

PMS: Forget the pills – eat a banana. The vitamin B6 it contains regulates blood glucose levels, which can affect your mood.

Anemia: High in iron, bananas can stimulate the production of hemoglobin in the blood and so helps in cases of anemia.

Blood Pressure: This unique tropical fruit is extremely high in potassium yet low in salt, making it perfect to beat blood pressure. So much so, the US Food and Drug Administration has just allowed the banana industry to make official claims for the fruit’s ability to reduce the risk of blood pressure and stroke.

Brain Power: 200 students at a Twickenham (Middlesex) school were helped through their exams this year by eating bananas at breakfast, break, and lunch in a bid to boost their brain power. Research has shown that the potassium-packed fruit can assist learning by making pupils more alert.

Constipation: High in fiber, including bananas in the diet can help restore normal bowel action, helping to overcome the problem without resorting to laxatives.

Hangovers: One of the quickest
ways of curing a hangover is to make a banana milkshake, sweetened with honey. The banana calms the stomach and, with the help of the honey, builds up depleted blood sugar levels, while the milk soothes and re-hydrates your system.

Heartburn: Bananas have a natural antacid effect in the body, so if you suffer from heartburn, try eating a banana for soothing relief.

Morning Sickness: Snacking on bananas between meals helps to keep blood sugar levels up and avoid morning sickness.

Mosquito bites: Before reaching for the insect bite cream, try rubbing the affected area with the inside of a banana skin. Many people find it amazingly successful at reducing swelling and irritation.

Overweight and at work? Studies at the Institute of Psychology in Austria found pressure at work leads to gorging on comfort food like chocolate and crisps. Looking at 5,000 hospital patients, researchers found the most obese were more likely to be in high-pressure jobs. The report concluded that, to avoid panic-induced food cravings, we need to control our blood sugar levels by snacking on high carbohydrate foods every two hours to keep levels steady.

Ulcers: The banana is used as the dietary food against intestinal disorders because of its soft texture and smoothness. It is the only raw fruit that can be eaten without distress in over-chronicler cases. It also neutralizes over-acidity and reduces irritation by coating the lining of the stomach.

Temperature control: Many other cultures see bananas as a ‘cooling’ fruit that can lower both the physical and emotional temperature of expectant mothers. In Thailand , for example, pregnant women eat bananas to ensure their baby is born with a cool temperature.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD): Bananas can help SAD sufferers because they contain the natural mood enhancer tryptophan.

Smoking & Tobacco Use: Bananas can also help people trying to give up smoking. The B6, B12 they contain, as well as the potassiu! m and ma gnesium found in them, help the body recover from the effects of nicotine withdrawal.

Stress: Potassium is a vital mineral, which helps normalize the heartbeat, sends oxygen to the brain and regulates your body’s water balance. When we are stressed, our metabolic rate rises, thereby reducing our potassium levels. These can be rebalanced with the help of a high-potassium banana snack.

Strokes: According to research in ‘The New England Journal of Medicine, ‘eating bananas as part of a regular diet can cut the risk of death by strokes by as much as 40%!

Warts: Those keen on natural alternatives swear that if you want to kill off a wart, take a piece of banana skin and place it on the wart, with the yellow side out. Carefully hold the skin in place with a plaster or surgical tape!

A: Perhaps it would be Spirulina which is one of the green super foods that also include Chlorella, Barley Grass, Wheatgrass and Alfalfa.

Spirulina is rich in complete protein, beta carotenes (vitamin A precursor), vitamin B12, chlorophyll and iron as well as antioxidants, enzymes, amino acids, minerals and vitamins.

Q: Does low b12 levels have anything to do with your sugar levels?
I am kinda scared because I have been checking my sugar lately and this morning when I tested my fasting sugar it was 111. I am also highly suspicious that I have low b12 , and I am going to get that checked soon also. Anyway, can low b12 impact the sugar levels in any way?

A: Poor nutrition in general, including low B12, can contribute to “insulin resistance”…. the precursor to diabetes. The whole idea to preventing type two diabetes is to furnish the body’s cells with the nutrition they need in order to prevent or minimize insulin resistance.

Q: Could an endocrine disorder be causing my B12 levels to still be low?
I’m on B12 but still experiencing vertigo and am still tired. I was thinking that maybe something else in system is causing it to be low.

Any suggestions?

A: If you’re regularly having B12 injections, you should be getting blood work done that can tell you if you’re having any other anemic abnormalities. Iron deficiency or folate deficiency (rare) could also be causing your symptoms but they’d be picked up in your B12 blood work.

Q: What does it mean if you have a very high Vitamin B12 levels?
my daughter got her bloodwork done and it says that the normal count is supposed to be more than 133 pmol/L, but hers is something like 233? that sounds dangerous but the doctor did not say anything.

A: She’s fine, B12 isn’t like iron where there is a safe range, with B12 you’re good as long as you’re over a certain amount but you don’t have to be lower than another. She’s okay.

Q: What causes a sudden drop in platelet levels and b12 levels of a brain cancer patient?

A: Hey Sam! Actually a deficiency in vit b12 can cause your platelet counts to drop. After you told me about it earlier I did a little research and I think I’ll start taking it too. You get b12 from red meat and various organ meats. I eat no organ meats and very little red meat, so that sounds like a good idea to me too. Get those vitamins and I bet at your next appt, it’ll be improved enough you can take your next round of chemo!!

Q: is there any way naturally to increase B12 and testerone levels which were dropped due overuse of metformin?
I am diabetic,found low levels of B12 and testorene due to use of metformin(5 years, 1 gram a day),Now I switched to HM insulin. Pl let me know if there are any natural remedy to overcome

A: About naturally to increase B12 can be read in http://health-schools.blogspot.com/?q=naturally%20to%20increase%20B12

Q: Has anyone here ever had blood tests return with HIGH B12 levels?
My 2yr old has rare blood disease HES. His b12 is high and climbing. I cant find much info on it. The immunologist told me that this is a “precursor to a malignancy”.
Any thoughts?

A: If you give me the name of the disease, I might be able to give you some information. I can’t find much info on the increased amount of B12 either…… just based on the little info you gave…..

Q: what do high ferritin and b12 levels mean?
hi all
my cousin just rang me shes late 2nd tri preggers and just been rang by the hospital to say she has to go in as her b12 and ferritin levels are very high she also has cloudy urine.
anyone know what these levels are about? ive tried to google it for her but cant find anything

cheers in advance

A: Don’t know how relevant this is to pregnancy however, I do know a bit about ferritin and B12.

Ferritin is the protein that carries iron in the blood to make it available to tissues. If it is high this could mean an iron-overload disorder (such as haemachromatosis.) However, it is also an acute phase protein (a protein which is elevated when the body is under strain from something like an infection.) If C-Reactive Protein (another acute phase protein) is also elevated this indicates an inflammatory process (such as infection) is taking place.

B12 is an essential vitamin which is required for cells to duplicate in the body. High levels of vitamin B12 can occur in liver disease and some leukaemias. In rare cases, high levels may be found in people with diabetes or are obese. In even rarer cases genetic mutations may be the cause.

Cloudy urine can be from infections of the urinary tract as well as protein in the urine and many other things.

I wouldn’t worry as there are so many causes further testing is probably required to reach a diagnosis.

Q: Weird blood test tsh levels and b12 levels?
I just had some blood work done which showed my tsh levels are 4.4 (3.8 being the highest range) and my vitamin b12 levels 1192 which is VERY high. I am not sure what this all means cr did not give a very through explination but said I may have to be put on a thyroid med. Please help I am nervous am I going to be very sick from this?

A: In the United States, hypothyroidism is present in ~5.0% of the population.

Youe have only a modest increase in TSH levels. The range usually runs from 0.5 to 5.0mU/L. An elevation like this could be expected if you have recently suffered from acute trauma, burns, or an infection.

While partly dependent on the lab doing the testing, a level of 1192pg/mL is also only a modest increase in B12 levels. Drinking energy drinks, taking a B-complex, or consuming yeasty brews can boost you to this level.

If you simply consume kelp (japanese food = konbu) in your diet, it would also produce results similar to yours.

This is definitely something to monitor, but unless more tests confirm a problem (T4, T3, autoantibodies), your condition is subclinical (~healthy).

Q: are my b12 levels really low?
just got diagnosed with a b12 deficiency, i got told my b12 level is 132. i was just wondering what the normal levels are and if this is abnormally low. thanks.

A: Normal is 155 to 1,100 so you are just below normal. Has your GP checked your intrinsic factor and parietal cell antibody to see if the problem is pernicious anaemia or dietary?

Q: What type of blood test measures levels of vitamin b12?
I mean when you get the sheet with different catagories to be tested ticked off, what one measures this vitamin?

A: This test is usually ordered and measured on its own, a B 12 Level. Sometimes it may be found in a “panel” for anemia for example but this differs from lab to lab.

Q: my mum has a complete vegan diet and she has very low levels of b12, so i want to know…?
…what foods can my mum eat, that will get her b12 levels up?

A: B12 is a tough one on a vegan diet because the only dietary sources are animal products. If she’d relent and add milk to her diet, that’d help a lot (milk is intended to be a food).
If she can’t get B12 fortified foods, your mum is going to have to resort to supplements; B12 tablets are commonly available at health food stores.

Q: What do low compliment levels and low b12 imply?
Just curious what those two combined or separate combined mean.

A: Low B12 may mean that you’re either A) not ingesting or taking in enough B12 throughout the day; or B) your body is not absorbing the B12 that you’re taking in.

Taking a B12 vitamin daily can help raise your levels. If you’re not eating enough/taking in enough calories in a day, that may cause your B12 to drop as well.

Q: Does Weight Lifting reduce B12 levels?
Hi,
I notice my B12 levels have dropped since weight lifting. . .can this happen and why?
Thanks, Sue

A: How can you tell? Do you test yourself?
B12 is a water soluble vitamin, like the other B vitamins. It is excreted in the urine and in sweat.

Q: my b12 levels are extremely high how could this happen and what could be the long term effects?
i take no supplements and am reasonably healthy except for high blood pressure which i am medicated for

A: Well I can’t offer much specific information without knowing more about your history and your exact B12 levels, but usually an elevated B12 level is not of concern, since it is water soluble and any excess amounts will be excreted in your urine, however, extremely high levels of B12 (which is uncommon) may be seen in conditions such as liver diseases or a condition called Polycythemia vera (also uncommon), in which your bone marrow produces too many blood cells, especially red blood cells.
If your levels are very high, you may want to get it investigated by your doctor to determine whether there is an underlying cause.

Q: Vit B12 Levels and Shot question?
Ok I have pernicious Anemia, since birth, I went in for my levels in July my B12 was a whopping 238, very low, she put me on supplements thinking it would give me a boost, it didnt, i started to lose the taste buds on my tounge (smooth tounge) went in last week she decided to give me the b12 shot… well they did the shot in my left arm, then sent me down for blood work, they took the level from my left arm as well, not i call to get my results and the nurse says oh your B12 is fine at 1500.. WHAT could it be this high because i had the shot in the same arm they took blood from 30 minutes before the draw?i dont know any other way it would go from always being at or below 250 to over 1500

A: Hi,
So here is the deal. The recommended daily amount (RDA) for B12 are 2.4 micrograms per day for adults and adolescents. Most older people do not absorb 10-30% of food bound B12. This is why supplementation is recommended.

There is a much larger amount of b12 provided in the injection that is more rapidly absorbed by the body. This also plays into why you only need to inject once a month. The oral tablets you were taking have higher variability in how much of the drug your body is actually absorbing. Many factors play into the absorption of b12 such as stomach acid. It is recommended with pernicious anemia that the IM injections be used as the form of treatment.

All of these reasons account for why your b12 level now, after the injection, is at a maintained level. You can also help your dietary intake of b12 by eating 1 chicken breast plus 1 hard-boiled egg plus 1 cup plain low-fat yogurt, or 1 cup milk plus 1 cup raisin bran. (NIH)

Hope that helped clarify things for you! Good luck!

Q: i would like to share this with couples ttc.me and hubby are giving them a go.has anyone else tried herbs,etc.
i have been doing some research on recurrent miscarriages, and infertility in men and women.i have heard about alot of very sucessfull outcomes with the aid of natural herbs.they are quite expensieve but in my opinion if they work it doesnt matter.
for women they are said to correct hormone imbalance,strenghten the uterine lining,repair damage to blood and sexual organs,produce better cervical mucus and improve egg quality:-
vitex
L-arginine
green tea
vitamin E,B6,B12
selenium
iron
zinc
magnesium
don quai
folic acid.
for men they are said to improve sperm count and quality,and repair damage done by toxins of any kind,blood and circulation to the reproductive organs:-
vitamin C,E,B6,B12
zinc
selenium
arginine
green tea
coenzyme Q10
folic acid
L-canitine
L-methionine
don quai.

A: We’ve taken almost all of those at some point in our efforts and none of them worked. I think they are worth a shot, though, and I certainly don’t regret trying these things. I really hope they work for you! Good luck and lots of baby dust!!!

Q: for couples ttc.has anyone tried herbs?
i have been doing some research on recurrent miscarriages, and infertility in men and women.i have heard about alot of very sucessfull outcomes with the aid of natural herbs.they are quite expensieve but in my opinion if they work it doesnt matter.
for women they are said to correct hormone imbalance,strenghten the uterine lining,repair damage to blood and sexual organs,produce better cervical mucus and improve egg quality:-
vitex
L-arginine
green tea
vitamin E,B6,B12
selenium
iron
zinc
magnesium
don quai
folic acid.
for men they are said to improve sperm count and quality,and repair damage done by toxins of any kind,blood and circulation to the reproductive organs:-
vitamin C,E,B6,B12
zinc
selenium
arginine
green tea
coenzyme Q10
folic acid
L-canitine
L-methionine
don quai.
and of course .s. e. x. helps too…lol

A: Very few things on your list are herbs and most can be gained from eating a healthy diet – vitamins are all found in food – eat an orange a day for plenty of vitamin C for example and don’t take pills instead. Fat soluble enzymes such as vitamin E shouldn’t be taken in excess as the body can’t get rid of them.

Arginine and methionine are both amino acids – the end result of digestion of protein, so a good selection of protein in the diet provides these in abundance.

Selenium is a non-metallic element from the sulphur group and can be toxic if you take too much – you should get plenty from a balanced diet. Also, it may block the uptake of magnesium. Likewise the metals zinc, iron and magnesium. Folic acid is another thing to be careful with.

I think the take-home message should be eat a balanced diet including plenty of fruit and vegetables to get most of the above in adequate quantities. It’s cheaper than filling up on expensive supplements and better for you.

Q: for couples ttc.has anyone tried herbs?
i have been doing some research on recurrent miscarriages, and infertility in men and women.i have heard about alot of very sucessfull outcomes with the aid of natural herbs.they are quite expensieve but in my opinion if they work it doesnt matter.
for women they are said to correct hormone imbalance,strenghten the uterine lining,repair damage to blood and sexual organs,produce better cervical mucus and improve egg quality:-
vitex
L-arginine
green tea
vitamin E,B6,B12
selenium
iron
zinc
magnesium
don quai
folic acid.
for men they are said to improve sperm count and quality,and repair damage done by toxins of any kind,blood and circulation to the reproductive organs:-
vitamin C,E,B6,B12
zinc
selenium
arginine
green tea
coenzyme Q10
folic acid
L-canitine
L-methionine
don quai.

A: I am currently trying to conceive. I have personally had good results with the herb vitex aka chaste tree berries. I took the chaste tree berries in a tincture. It cost about eighteen dollars. My periods went from a 34 day cycle, bleeding for eight days, and random bleeding throughout my cycle. To a 28 day cycle, bleeding for five days, and no more random bleeding. I had a long cycle for years and the tincture was the only thing I changed so I know it was responsible. I still haven’t gotten pregnant yet, but I’m not complaining about five days of bleeding as opposed to eight. This is my experience and I hope it helps you with your research. Good luck!