I have been taking antacids for years. Now I read in a magazine in the hospital that you can have a deficiency of vitamin B12 as a result. Recognizable complaints for me. Could you maybe tell me a bit more about it?
Anne
Suzan Tuinier, nutritionist
Long-term use of antacids increases the risk of a vitamin B12 deficiency in the body. This is according to recent American research. Elderly people who use antacids in particular have an increased risk of a vitamin B12 deficiency.
Vitamin B12 plays a role in the formation of red blood cells, it ensures proper functioning of the nervous system and is an essential factor for growth. Vitamin B12 is only found in foods of animal origin, such as meat, fish, milk and eggs. With a high intake, the body can limit the absorption of vitamin B12 from the diet itself. Moreover, there are no known adverse effects on the body of an excessive intake.
antacids
Vitamin B12 is absorbed in the last part of the small intestine. To release vitamin B12 from proteins, stomach acid and an enzyme are needed. Stomach acid inhibitors inhibit the production of stomach acid, but also of the enzyme. As a result, vitamin B12 is released less well and the vitamin can be absorbed less well in the body.
Simple stomach acid products (such as Rennie, Maalox and Gavioscon) have no effect on the vitamin B12 status in the body. These stomach acid products only convert excess stomach acid into water and other body substances. So there is still enough stomach acid to release vitamin B12 from dietary proteins.
Low risk
People who take antacids have an increased risk of a vitamin B12 deficiency. That is not to say that everyone who takes antacids actually has a vitamin B12 deficiency. Those who eat and live healthily run little risk. There is no cause for concern if there are no symptoms that match the symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency. Taking a normal dose multivitamin containing vitamin B12 can be a good addition to the daily diet. For personal advice, a visit to a doctor is advisable.
Do you also have a question? Then ask one of our experts. Always go to your doctor with urgent questions, the experts are not the right person for that. They also do not diagnose. You can find the other conditions here.
Suzan Tuinier is a nutritionist and coordinator of the Vitamin Information Bureau. She has experience as a nutrition educator and researcher. You can contact Suzan with questions about vitamins and minerals.
