In some people, high levels of B12 may cause gastrointestinal problems such as bloating and diarrhea. And if you have high blood pressure or poor cardiovascular health, having too much B12 may further complicate these issues.
A B12 deficiency may also cause diarrhea, nausea, constipation, bloating, gas, and other gastrointestinal symptoms ( 2 , 19 ). These issues can affect both adults and children ( 2 , 20 ). Keep in mind, though, that many of these symptoms are non-specific and could be caused by other factors.
Safety and side effects
High doses of vitamin B-12, such as those used to treat a deficiency, might cause: Headache. Nausea and vomiting. Diarrhea.
Fiber supplements and bulking agents, such as Citrucel, Fiberall, and Metamucil. Multivitamins and iron pills.
Vitamin B complex supplements can cause indirect abdominal bloating. B-complex vitamins are found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as poultry, eggs, fish and meat. Following the recommended dietary guidelines set by the USDA can ensure you are getting enough of these vitamins daily.
Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin, and the risks of dose-related side effects are low. Your body can usually get rid of excess vitamin B12 through your urine. In rare cases, high doses of vitamin B12 injections have been associated with skin reactions. This isn't the case for oral vitamin B12 dietary supplements.
Certain nutrient deficiencies can contribute to digestive upset and bloating. The most common nutrient deficiencies that are linked to bloating are zinc, magnesium, molybdenum and thiamin.
Bloating happens when the GI tract becomes filled with air or gas. This can be caused by something as simple as the food you eat. Some foods produce more gas than others. It can also be caused by lactose intolerance (problems with dairy).
“A 2013 study found that taking higher amounts of magnesium helps better control insulin and glucose blood levels. This same study also showed magnesium helps with bloating and water retention,” says Dr.
Your digestive system craves vitamin B's to help your body create red blood cells and gain energy from food, but it is primarily vitamin B12 that is helpful for boosting your gut health. If you experience any digestive issues such as diarrhea, nausea and cramping chances are you may have a B12 deficiency.
Swelling and Skin Reactions
Some people may also feel like their entire body is swollen, according to MedlinePlus. Rapid weight gain may also occur. Skin reactions that may occur following a vitamin B12 shot include flushing of the skin, especially the face, hives, rash and itching.
In most cases, taking a B vitamin will not lead to weight gain. However, people who are deficient in vitamin B12 might notice the scale creep upwards once they start supplementing. That's because loss of appetite is a symptom of vitamin B12 deficiency.
Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency
a pale yellow tinge to your skin. a sore and red tongue (glossitis) mouth ulcers. pins and needles (paraesthesia)
Be aware that sublingual and dissolvable B-12 supplements often contain sugar substitutes that can cause gas, bloating, and diarrhea in some people -- particularly if taking multiple pills.
It might be as simple as eating too much too fast, or you could have a food intolerance or other condition that causes gas and digestive contents to build up. Your menstrual cycle is another common cause of temporary bloating. Sometimes a bloated stomach can indicate a more serious medical condition.
Eating a lot of salty food and carbohydrates can make you feel bloated, as can swallowing air when you eat too fast or drink a lot of fizzy drinks. Regular bloating can be caused by other problems, including: constipation. coeliac disease.
Many people who experience endo belly say they “look pregnant,” even though they're not. Endo belly is just one symptom of endometriosis. Those who experience endo belly often have other gastrointestinal symptoms, such as: gas pain.
Other gastrointestinal conditions can also cause bloating and stomach ailments. Conditions such as ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease and irritable bowel syndrome can all cause bloating. Acid reflux, and the medications to treat it, can cause bloating and a feeling of increased gas in the abdomen, leading to belching.
You're skipping meals.
Manning says it's likely your stomach is searching for something to digest because you should actually be eating a meal. But because you're not, your body instead creates gas that leads to bloat.
Lemon water can help with digestion
To relieve bloating, gas, and constipation, drink a cup of lemon water first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Lemon contains minerals that promote healthy digestion, alleviate heartburn, and stimulate healthy bowel function by reducing bloat and stimulating bowel movements.
Using ACV for bloating is simple. Adding a tablespoon of ACV to a small glass of warm water and then drinking it before or after a meal or when a person feels bloated is all they need to do. A number of drinks, salad dressings, and other foods also contain ACV that may help to relieve symptoms of bloating.