How to Take Vitamin B Complex to Help With Bulimia
While all vitamins are important for people who suffer from bulimia, the B complex specifically can help with certain problems related to eating disorders. Since vitamin B deficiencies are linked to mood swings and other emotional problems, experts believe it's possible that these deficiencies may contribute to the onset of bulimia. On the other hand, bulimia depletes storages of certain B vitamins, so it's important to consume them on daily basis.
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Things You'll Need
- Vitamin B complex (including B12, B6, B3, B1 and B5)
- B complex injection (may be necessary)
- Orange juice
Instructions
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Take a vitamin B complex rather than taking all B vitamins separately, as they work better together.
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Make sure the balance of all the vitamins in the B complex is right. Some multi-vitamins may favor B12 and B6, but contain low amounts of other B vitamins. B vitamins that are sometimes not included in higher doses include B3 (good for emotional stability), folic acid (to protect against anemia) and B1 (to help with gastrointestinal disturbances).
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Take vitamin B12 to help your body deal with the consequences of malabsorption. People who suffer from bulimia either vomit their food before it has a chance to be absorbed by the body or abuse laxatives, which can hinder the absorption of vitamins and minerals. A low level of vitamin B12 can improve diminished reflex responses, anemia and weakness.
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Use a B complex to help with fatigue and physical stress, and to support the immune system. Since bulimia causes both physical and mental stress, a B complex can help by promoting healthy nerve function, bolstering the immune system and pushing the production of stress hormones.
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Make sure the complex has a high concentration of vitamin B5, which helps metabolize fats and feeds the body, even if absorption is not perfect.
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Consider a B complex injection if you are suffering from severe deficiency symptoms. This has to be given by a doctor or a nurse and it usually consists of two doses, with reinforcements given once a month until the symptoms go away. This is especially important in people who have a severe deficiency of B12 (which can be verified by a test).
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Take a B vitamin complex if you are taking diuretics or laxatives, as they help your body deal with low potassium and zinc by interacting with other nutrients.
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Tips & Warnings
A vitamin B complex can be taken even if you are already taking a multi-vitamins
Take the B vitamins with a glass of orange juice to improve absorption.
Don't drink coffee at least 1 hour before or after you take vitamins. Caffeine can interfere with the absorption of all vitamins, including those in the B complex.
