The researchers also found that supplementing with vitamin B12 and folic acid increased levels of syntaxin 17 in the liver, restoring its role of digesting fat and protecting against inflammation. Vitamin B12 supplementation also slowed NASH progression and reversed liver inflammation and fibrosis.
The common forms of vitamin B include vitamin B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine) and B12 (cyanocobalamin). Except for niacin (when given in high doses), there is no evidence that the other B vitamins, in physiologic or even super-physiologic high doses cause liver injury or jaundice.
Autoimmune dysfunction and chronic vitamin B12 deficiency might lead to decreased hepatic detoxification and damage repair, and to progression of chronic liver disease, like liver cirrhosis.
In contrast to iron deficiency, the prognostic value of B12 and folic acid was not significant. Increased levels of serum cobalamin are associated with malignancies, autoimmune diseases, and renal and liver failure. It is a marker for liver-cell damage, due to release of the vitamin from damaged liver cells.
This new study hints that two nutrients, folate and vitamin B12, might be especially beneficial to help support liver health and potentially reverse nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Much more research is needed to confirm these findings.
The findings from this research suggest that vitamin B12 and folic acid may have the potential to positively impact liver health, specifically when it comes to individuals with fatty liver disease. These particular nutrients, in the form of supplements, may even hold the possibility of reversing fatty liver disease.
B vitamins are one of the best vitamins for liver function. This is because eating vitamin B rich foods can help individuals with reversed symptoms of several liver diseases.
Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is naturally found in animal foods. It can also be added to foods or supplements. Vitamin B12 is needed to form red blood cells and DNA. It is also a key player in the function and development of brain and nerve cells.
The liver stores vitamins and minerals for the times when they may be lacking in the diet. It can store enough vitamin A and vitamin B12 for four years, and enough vitamin D for four months.
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. Pregnant and breastfeeding women may also need to be especially mindful of B12 levels.
B12 may not be a highly influencing factor for kidney function, but it is undoubtedly important when treating kidney diseases. All individuals with renal illness are advised to take vitamin B12 because it is water-soluble.
Stage 1 is decreased levels of vitamin B12 in the blood. Stage 2 is low concentration of vitamin B12 in the cell and metabolic abnormalities. Stage 3 is increased levels of homocysteine and MMA and decreased DNA synthesis resulting in neuropsychiatric symptoms. Stage 4 is macrocytic anemia.
Exercise and healthy dietary supplements, including micronutrients, are promising methods to manage NAFLD. Vitamins A, B3, B12, D, and E can serve as targets for NAFLD therapy, although some are linked to adverse effects.
The current study showed that supplementation with vitamin B12 (1000 µg cyanocobalamin per day) for 12 weeks among patients with NAFLD improved serum levels of homocysteine. Also, the fasting blood glucose and serum levels of MDA were significantly improved in the trial group who received vitamin B12.
Although it's less common, people with vitamin B12 deficiency caused by a prolonged poor diet may be advised to stop taking the tablets once their vitamin B12 levels have returned to normal and their diet has improved.
How to raise your B12 levels fast. The most common way to treat B12 deficiencies is by adjusting your diet. If this is unsuccessful, vitamin supplements may be recommended. If you're looking to boost the amount of vitamin B12 in your diet, you should eat more animal products, like meat, seafood, dairy and eggs.
Key points about vitamin B12 deficiency anemia
Without enough red blood cells, your tissues and organs don't get enough oxygen. Without enough oxygen, your body can't work as well. Symptoms include weak muscles, numbness, trouble walking, nausea, weight loss, irritability, fatigue, and increased heart rate.
There are certain foods that also need a cut-down in case of vitamin B12 deficiency. “Some foods and drinks can interfere with vitamin B complex intake like alcohol, caffeine and processed foods, etc should be avoided completely,” Shah added.
Common vitamins and minerals that assist in liver detoxification include vitamins A, C, E, K, B1, and B6. Beta-carotene and biotin can also be helpful. Additional liver support can be found by ingesting the following herbs: dandelion, schizandra, milk thistle, garlic, and rosemary.
A recent study on patients with advanced liver disease showed a high prevalence of vitamin A and D deficiencies, and that vitamin A is strongly correlated with liver dysfunction, portal hypertension and levels of bile acids [148].