All vegan advocates should be made aware of the symptoms of B12 deficiency (with the realization that elevated homocysteine levels occur long before these symptoms are noticeable). Adequate transport of B12 to the tissues may considerably slow after B12 intake significantly decreases. Some people who try a vegan diet may already have low B12 levels or hampered absorption mechanisms. Some of these factors could cause a new vegan to feel bad and go back to eating animal products.
Throughout human history, people have ingested B12 on a daily basis, and most often throughout the day. This has given people a steady supply of B12 to their tissues. While there is no research on whether a vegan is better off taking B12 on a daily vs. weekly basis, one should err on the side of caution and supplement daily.
|
