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Important vitamins to test for

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Ulcerative Colitis
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Posted 12/26/2021 12:03 AM (GMT 0)
Hi, since Im dealing with a flare that wont go away so far, bleeding with every BM and my skin is getting more dry by the day.

I would like to get a vitamins test to see if Im lacking something. I had my regular bloodwork 2 weeks ago and it showed I was low in iron so perhaps theres a few others that are low.

What are the important vitamins I should test for?

Thanks
Posted 12/26/2021 6:15 AM (GMT 0)
The B-vitamins, especially 6 & 12, and vitamin D are major. Then there are A, C, and E. Minerals besides iron are important, too: calcium, iodine, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, zinc. Did your doctor recommend any daily vitamin/mineral supplement? I think most of them catch on to iron deficiency right away, but most IBDers also need to supplement vit D by at least 1,000 IU (25 mcg.) daily-- very essential as it supports the immune system. / Old Hat (40+ yrs with left-sided UC; in remission taking Colazal)
Posted 12/26/2021 12:32 PM (GMT 0)
My GI regularly tests B12, D and folate ( B9?) I was deficient in all of them before he checked. Not sure if that helps you.
Posted 12/26/2021 1:46 PM (GMT 0)
Rampant deficiencies in IBDers aren't because most of us don't eat balanced diets, it is that inflamed intestines can sometimes have absorption issues.

Zinc is another mineral that is commonly deficient along with B12, vit D, and folate.
Posted 12/26/2021 2:36 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you all for the replies, I will get tests for all of them.

My GI has never told me to supplement any vitamins except for iron now that my bloodwork is showing deficiency, likely due to the daily blood loss.
Posted 12/26/2021 3:58 PM (GMT 0)
Make sure you are getting LOTS of protein. I saw a nutritionist specializing in IBD and she emphasized that we need extra protrein because our colons are contantly trying to rebuild themselves. I think she recommended something like 100g to 120g per day, try to be getting some all day long, and eat 4 - 5 times a day.
Posted 12/26/2021 4:20 PM (GMT 0)
1Wish, my pcp does all of my labs as part of my yearly physical. I never supplement unless I have tested low, typically most we can get most of what we need through our diet. I went from B12 injections to taking it orally, I take 2500mcg a day which is low dose but my numbers are fine.
Posted 12/30/2021 8:16 PM (GMT 0)
B12, vit D, iron and ferritin are the only ones I'm regularly tested for.
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