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If B12 must be taken orally in form of supplements, absorption plays a crucial role for its effectiveness. The bacterial flora in the small intestine must be intact for proper assimilation. The intrinsic factor, gastric juice as found in the fundus of the stomach enhances the effectiveness of B12 as well. In other words, we must ensure a patient’s digestive system and most importantly the colon’s lactobacilli environment is working properly.
Supplementation with lactobacilli, acidophilus (available at health food stores) or intake of yogurt, kefir, buttermilk, sauerkraut, kwass and other fermented products deliver friendly bacteria to the colon. This is the best strategy to ascertain a patient’s absorption of B12. Deficiency in this vitamin is usually caused by absorption problems.
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