What to Consider When Supplementing B Vitamins for MS Symptom Relief

Debi Wilson avatar

by Debi Wilson |

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b vitamins, B12

Faith of the Mustard Seed

Research finds that a deficiency of B vitamins may play a role in multiple sclerosis (MS) symptoms. On the other hand, supplementation of the vitamins may help. There are eight essential B vitamins: B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, and B12. The large variety can be confusing when wondering which ones best benefit people with MS.

A 2018 brochure from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society (NMSS)  recommends taking B6 (pyridoxine) and B12 (cobalamin). To raise B6 levels, eat salmon, tuna, pork, chicken, beans, bananas, and lots of vegetables, among other food sources. For B12, consume meat, poultry, eggs, dairy products, or shellfish. Both vitamins are available in supplemental form.

Vitamin B6 helps with the metabolism of amino acids within the body, which develops protein. Bodies need vitamin B12 to create red blood cells and ensure the nervous system’s efficient operation.
I feel good taking vitamin B complex — a combination of B vitamins. I feel it gives me more energy, and the predetermined dosing means I don’t have to worry about overdoing it. Next time I go to the doctor I will have my vitamin B blood levels checked to ensure I am in the correct range.
It is extremely important not to take too much vitamin B6 because that can actually create MS-type symptoms such as tingling, numbness, and pain. Thankfully, those symptoms usually dissipate when the supplementation ends. It is always best to speak to your physician to have your blood levels checked and ask for dosage recommendations.

Want to learn more about the latest research in MS? Ask your questions in our research forum.

The NMSS brochure states that, “A variety of observations have suggested that there may be a relationship between vitamin B12 levels and MS. For example, some studies indicate that people with MS have low levels of vitamin B12 in their blood more frequently than the general population.”
The brochure also shares that “for people with MS with normal levels, there is no evidence that vitamin B12 supplementation either improves neurological symptoms or favorably alters the course of the disease.”
However, research published in January 2019 in the journal Clinical Nutrition Research indicates that B12 actually could help with MS symptoms. Vitamin B9, also known as folic acid or folate, is also beneficial to MS symptoms. The study showed that combining B12 and B9 supplementation can improve the quality of life for those with MS. A Multiple Sclerosis News Today article about the study states, “Vitamins B12 and B9 (folic acid) supplements can lower levels of homocysteine (a common amino acid), improve anemia status, and boost self-reported physical health in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), according to new research.”
Discussions with your primary doctor, neurologist, or naturopathic doctor are the best way to set up a supplement regimen for your specific situation.
Please join us in the MS forums to discuss this topic. You are invited to follow me on Instagram.

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Note: Multiple Sclerosis News Today is strictly a news and information website about the disease. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. This content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. The opinions expressed in this column are not those of Multiple Sclerosis News Today or its parent company, Bionews Services, and are intended to spark discussion about issues pertaining to multiple sclerosis.

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About the Author

Debi Wilson avatar
Debi Wilson Debi is a retired admissions and marketing director residing in Oregon. She is a mother of three grown children and has three grandchildren. She was diagnosed with PPMS in 2010. With her column, "Faith of the Mustard Seed," she hopes to help and inspire others who are also dealing with MS.

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energy, fatigue, MS symptoms, research, supplements
Cyn Doyle avatar

Cyn Doyle

thank you, Debi
I have often wondered about a connection between B vitamins and MS

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Debi Wilson avatar

Debi Wilson

Your welcome,Cyn! Take care,Debi

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FB avatar

FB

Readers may find the article on this link interesting in relation to Vit B12 and MS - it's definitely food for thought. (Note - I don't subscribe to the site's content in any way, but it is the only place where I've found this article to be available outside a paywall)
http://www.direct-ms.org/document/vitamin-b12-demyelination-remyelination-and-repair-in-multiple-sclerosis/?_sf_s=B12&_sft_document_category=journal-articles&_sft_document_publication_date=november-2005&_sft_document_author=ariel-miller

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John avatar

John

If this is the case with B12 then I wonder why when I take B12 alone it makes me feel terrible but when I take it in a multivitamin I feel better.

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Vivienne avatar

Vivienne

B-complex has been my energy lifeline! Seriously, it's made a world of difference for me. No more dragging through the day. If you're struggling with low energy, giving B-Complex a try could be a game-changer. It's been my secret weapon!

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Joyce wright avatar

Joyce wright

I was dx with MS in 2018.

EMG was normal last week- I’ve been having increased pain.
After many blood draws , only one was off. B6- 95 high.

I’ve supplemented my diet, but pulled way back the last 3-4 weeks.

It will be interesting to find out what the docs think about B6.

…high levels contribute to inflammation,
Cause can be genetic, polymorphisms…

Bad combo with MS.

We shall see.

Joyce

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Annw avatar

Annw

If you haven't already started an M. S. diary it's time to start now. I start with how I'm feeling at 3 times a day, next my meds. and supplements. Then comes what was eaten for the day, Appointments, date and time the purpose, whom with, address and contact info., results. There are other things as well, about social life, mental health, money.

Hope this helps, track what evet you want or need to. We are so lucky that all of this can be done on our phones. I hope you find a pain solution that works!

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