Home General Info & Awareness I Didn’t Realise B12 Was A Fashion Accessory

I Didn’t Realise B12 Was A Fashion Accessory

by InvisiblyMe
A darkly lit photo of woman dressed as a nurse with large round glasses, bright pink lip stick, and a syringe held seductively. To the right is the title: When did B12 injections become a fashion trend?

B12 In The News

I came upon a news story recently talking about the ‘craze’ of ‘fashionable B12 injections’. Apparently, as a few celebrities have been telling the world they’ve been perking themselves up with these jabs and the mainstream have been trying to follow in their foot steps. Why? It’s suggested that it’ll give you more energy, help with weight loss and boosting your metabolism, and help alleviate depression, among other things. Reading the story led to this 5 minute rant of irritation.

Why do these so-called celebs feel the need to take to Twitter, Instagram and Facebook to tell the world and show them in horrifyingly close up selfie images that they’re having a B12 injection? Is it cool? Is it fun? It is a rush a minute drug/alcohol alternative?

In response, scientists, nutritionists and other specialists are saying it’s a fad and fashion trend that’s unnecessary for ‘normal’ people.

This was quoted by nutritionist Carrie Ruxton: ‘I don’t know why a healthy young person would need any Vitamin B12 injections, because all they need to do is go and have an egg sandwich, or a nice bit of roast lamb.’

Of course, the emphasis should be on ‘healthy’, and age shouldn’t really come into it. For those with Pernicious Anaemia (PA), an egg sandwich isn’t going to cut it.

Pernicious Anaemia & The Fight For B12

I am beyond angry today. I went to the GP this morning for my B12 injection (I have PA) and a chat with my doc afterwards. I was told there are ‘new guidelines’; those who don’t have the intrinsic factor as their cause of PA (most who have PA don’t) won’t get 3 monthly injections anymore. You’ll be lucky to have them every 6 months if at all. Hey, maybe they’ll give you tablets (which you probably won’t absorb). If your levels are good (of course they will be if you’ve been on treatment for a few years, but let’s ignore that, too).

I’m sick and tired of fighting this stupid fight against ignorance in the face of budget cuts. I was livid and upset and while I’m usually pretty good at being assertive these days, I still came out in tears.

Anger At Making B12 A Fashionable Trend

I’m irritated by several things with this article. The ‘celebs’ promoting B12 injections willy-nilly, making into a fashion trend. The specialists calling it a fashion trend and ignoring that it’s a vital necessity for those with PA. These injections aren’t don’t come from a Gucci store, & illness isn’t like choosing a new pair of Louboutin heels.

An expensive-looking handbag and shoe against a colourful background.

I do find it amusing that such ‘luvvies’, as the article refers to them, who are simply jumping on the bandwagon in a desperate attempt to make sure their z-list stardom isn’t forgotten don’t seem to understand how these injections work. For most people, it’s not a sudden spike of energy and fast-acting benefit.

I’m not against people trying these, who don’t have PA, but get medical advice first. It’s not a quick fix. And oral supplements should, ideally, be tried first. It’s a last resort if you have a deficiency and can’t otherwise absorb or maintain the vitamin in your body. Those with PA have little choice in the matter.

I can’t say I’m too impressed by these injections being flaunted by those who can easily afford them when those who have a vital need for them may not be in such a position to readily and easily do so.

A Word To The Celebrities On B12

I would like to ask the so-called celebs: is it’s trendy, fashionable and fun to have chronic exhaustion? To be in pain. To actually have Pernicious Anaemia and the myriad of symptoms that come with it. I’d like to ask if it’s fun to be limited to injections every 3 months because the NHS don’t allow them any more regularly even when you’re struggling. I’d like to ask if it’s enjoyable to have to fork out more money to order them online to jab yourself in the leg with because your doc says that’s the only way to have this VITAL, NECESSARY medication that you need because you have a genuine condition.

A green coloured cartoon syringe.

I’d like to ask the specialists: why aren’t you taking this opportunity to talk about Pernicious Anaemia. Why they’re not taking the time to educate themselves and put things right within NHS treatment for those with PA (such as the case with injections only every 3 months). Why they’re not highlighting that some people cannot absorb and maintain B12 adequately through dietary changes. Why they’re making it harder for those with this serious condition to get the treatment they need. I’d like to ask why they’re not showing the seriousness of B12 deficiency and Pernicious Anaemia.

There’s nothing glamorous to see here.

Rant over.

Caz  ♥

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73 comments

Comedy Plus January 15, 2019 - 3:37 pm

I remember these were very popular in the 80s. Then that changed. I see it’s back. I hope you can get your doses as you wish. Why do things have to be so difficult? I don’t know either.

Have a fabulous day and week. ♥

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 6:28 pm

It’s ridiculous to be ‘trendy’, and worse when the knock on effect of such media is to use budget cuts to reduce or prevent treatment that it vital for those who need it. Thanks for the comment – I hope you’re having a lovely weekend 🙂
xx

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Da-AL January 15, 2019 - 3:37 pm

Yes, yes, & yes, Caz — which is why it’s so wonderful that you have this great blog that helps inform folks <3

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 6:26 pm

Every little helps with raising awareness because I think the more things like this are shouted about the better! Thanks so much lovely – I hope you have a great week ahead 🙂
xx

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Anne Fraser January 15, 2019 - 3:42 pm

Years ago when I was a registered nurse I worked some shits in a local nursing home. There was a very thin elderly man there who needed monthly B12 injections. I can assure you there was nothing glamorous about the procedure. I agree with you they should only be for people who need them. and certainly not used to make up for an unhealthy diet.

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 6:26 pm

I couldn’t help but chuckle at the typo – that you’d ‘worked some shits’! I feel bad laughing when the topic is nothing to laugh about. And that poor man, I’m glad at least they gave him them monthly. Definitely not glamorous, these injections are vital for those who need them.xx

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Paula Bardell-Hedley January 15, 2019 - 4:05 pm

Well, I’m very boring because I have the injections every 3 months because I lack B12. I also have infusions for anemia and lack of ferritin! ???? My condition has never been officially labelled but both my mum and grandfather has/had Pernicious Anaemia, so…

You’re so right about difficulties with treatment – especially as the NHS keep moving the goal posts (saving money I suspect). Twelve months ago I would be given an infusion when my ferritin dropped below 10 (it should be between 15-300). Then it changed to 8 or below, which was my reading after having my last blood test. However, I’ve now been told that it must go to 4 or below, which is crazy. I drop about 1 a month, so I’m probably around the six mark by now (I’m back for a BT next week), but I’m virtually crawling around at the mo. There’s definitely nothing glamorous about going through life like a wet lettuce! ???? xx

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 6:24 pm

My grandfather had PA & I think there is some support for a genetic predisposition. I’m sorry you have low B12 and anaemia too. That’s another thing I’ve struggled with; after last year and nearly non-existent levels, the GP said I should be having infusions, whether it’s every 6 months or every year, I don’t absorb it well and can’t take any other form as I’ve learnt in the past. The new GP however has said my levels are still within normal range, overlooking the exhaustion & how my levels continue to drop, so what the last GP said has been overruled. I wonder how low they need to be before anyone cares. The ranges are ridiculous because they vary between NHS localities, and they overlook symptoms and how levels fluctuate. To be under 4 to warrant an infusion is utterly ridiculous!! How often would you say you’re having infusions, roughly? I’m so sorry you’re having such problems with getting the treatment you need too, it’s beyond a joke. Definitely nothing glamorous about being a wet lettuce. Thank you so much for sharing this Paula xx

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Paula Bardell-Hedley January 21, 2019 - 8:41 pm

It’s well over 12 months since my last infusion, Caz. My GP keeps writing to the hospital to ask for another but their reply always seems to be ‘it needs to be lower’! I have a B12 injection regularly and it helps to some extent, but the infusion makes a huge difference to my energy levels. I went today for a blood test, so it remains to be seen how low it has dropped. Like you, I have problems with absorption, which means no quantity of iron-rich foods or medicine make the slightest difference. I’ll let you know the outcome after seeing my GP (she’s definitely on my side but no longer has the authority to insist on treatment). xx

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ashleyleia January 15, 2019 - 4:23 pm

Wow, that is utterly ridiculous.

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 5:55 pm

Absolutely! x

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Terri, Reclaiming HOPE January 15, 2019 - 4:46 pm

Oh Caz, now I’m angry! This is one of the most ridiculous things I’ve ever heard. For those who don’t need it to be able to just do it as a fad because they’re rich is bad enough, but then when you add in the fact that those who really do need it can’t get it, it’s enough to make me want to cry right along with you. Sending love and hugs sweet friend!

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 5:54 pm

You’re exactly right; you’ve summed up my ranty post in just a few lines. The more awareness that’s raised and the more these types of things are shouted about the better. Thank you so much for the wonderful comment, Terri. I hope you’re having a restful weekend  ♥
xx

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Ayesha Karim January 15, 2019 - 4:58 pm

What a post. Thanks for getting the word out.

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 5:52 pm

Every little helps, and the more it’s shouted about, the better. Thanks for the comment Ayesha – have a lovely week ahead! 🙂
x

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Kim January 15, 2019 - 7:07 pm

Yes. I need to take an intramuscular shot every month. I order the vials and needles and take them myself, at home. My insurance has now stopped covering these shots. It angers me. Why can’t we look at actors and actresses for what they are? Great pretenders! Just shut up and act.

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 5:51 pm

Half of these so-called celebrities seem to have come from nowhere, they’re not even actors/actresses (or if they are, not very good at their jobs). They just do whatever they can to be in the limelight, from dating someone famous or appearing on reality TV. I’m frustrated as heck for you about the insurance issue, it’s totally unacceptable because it’s such a vital medication when you need it. I’m so sorry you’ve had that experience, Kim.xx

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Elaine January 15, 2019 - 8:17 pm

Beggars belief!

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 5:49 pm

You’ve wrapped it up so well in just two words, Elaine! xx

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Carolyn Page January 15, 2019 - 9:13 pm

I can truly appreciate your rant, Caz. I have two friends who have regular B12 injections; not because they have PA; but because their bodies can’t absorb sufficient B12 from foods or tablets. I have seen both when their injection was nigh; both being obviously in need.
One of them, the male, has to undergo periodic testing to validate his need for the injections – I don’t know if this is the case for the female friend; though, it probably is; and rightly so.
This is a medical need. It does beggar belief….

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 5:48 pm

I’m sorry your friends have problems with absorption of B12, it’s awful getting to the point of really needing the injection because it can have a large effect on you (mentally and physically as you get more exhausted). How regular are their injections, do you know? The only issue with validating the need for injections is that after years of treatment you can’t get an accurate level of active B12 from a blood test, so they will show that your B12 level is still very high, but that’s not the reality of what your active level is. This seems to be totally ignored by doctors, especially in the UK, as this sort of testing is being used to prevent those with PA from getting the treatment they need. It definitely beggars belief, you’re right. Thank you so much for sharing Carolyn. I hope you have a lovely week ahead xx

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Wendy January 15, 2019 - 10:05 pm

OMG this really pisses me off! I’m glad I have a stock pile of viles in my closet, my husband gives them to me, I don’t have to go in to the doctor…thank goodness. My needs went down so did my dose so I have more than I need now. But I’m sure it will be harder to fill my script next time. And I don’t even have PA, I’m simply always low in B12. was VERY low for a while. And I eat plenty of foods that should give it to me. Having malabsorption issues can do that.
I tried tablets and sublinguals…the sublingual route are supposed to be absorbed better, but it wasn’t enough for me.
I remember when I was very young my mom’s boss would get B12 shots and talk about how much energy she had after, I never felt that. Maybe it’s because I needed it?
I’m so sorry, if you were closer I’d share with you. and Stuart could teach someone how to give it to you., since he only knows how to give it in the butt, he couldn’t help you do it yourself. hahaha
The fact that the government keeps putting up guidelines for doctors to follow, tying their hands to actually treat patients, I wonder how soon it will be before we have a shortage of doctors (,more than we do now). They already have such a hard time dealing with insurance companies. No wonder so many doctors do not accept Medicare (Disability insurance in the US) Why would you really want to be a doctor when you wren’t allowed to actually treat the patient?

I’m so livid right now I can’t even think straight.
loving hugs to you my friend. xo Wendy

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 4:36 pm

Aw that’s so kind of you Wendy! I wish you were closer so we could have a cuppa tea and vent our frustrations at all of this stuff, from our migraine meds being limited (I’m so frustrated for you having read your post!) to difficulties getting pain meds and even now B12. I’ve sourced B12 injections online but it’s not something that I, or many others, could afford to do regularly when money is tight. I’ll have to wait 3 months without anything so I can do the blood test the GP wants (which is totally pointless), then I’ll go from there.

I’m glad you have a stock pile at home, and as long as the dates are all okay then they’ll keep for when you need them as B12 levels can vary a lot and obviously no other form (like sublingual) works for you. You mentioning your mom’s boss having a boost of energy after her injection… that’s exactly what my dad says my granddad experienced. He had PA and had B12 every 2 or 3 weeks I think it was. He’d apparently be awful just before it (bad mood, no energy), then after the shot he’d be right as rain with energy. I’ve never experienced that either. I wonder if it’s a case of us needing it more, or more regularly, or perhaps even with other conditions going on we don’t notice that initial difference. I do notice when I’m flagging far more in the 3rd month waiting for an injection, I’m practically having to drag myself around. Do you experience that, with your body practically shouting that you’re due another?

When I can get my head on straight I’ll write to the GP practice, the clinical commissioning group for the area, and my MP. The more we can shout about these things, raise awareness, show others they’re not alone in their frustrations and difficulties getting medications they NEED, the better. Thank you very much for mentioning the post in yours about your migraine meds, it’s much appreciated. I’ll share yours to FB now. I really appreciate your comment more than you know, thank you so much for taking the time  ♥
Caz xx

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Karen January 15, 2019 - 10:40 pm

Vitamin injections really shouldn’t be a trend and if the crazy celebs are doing this why is it being highlighted as a good thing? I really don’t get celebrity culture. I firmly believe people who need medication including vitamins for long term conditions should get them on free prescription.
The criteria seems arbitrary, for example asthma is a life threatening condition yet doesn’t apply for medical exemption on prescription charges., but thyroid problems do.
Anyway, there’s nothing I can say that will make any of this more sensible, so vent, rant and rage we’re here to listen and support. Take care xx
BTW would you be interested in contributing a piece to this project? http://www.mariaalfieri.com/ You’d need to contact Maria asap as her deadline is looming!

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 5:39 pm

I agree – I don’t get celebrity culture either and I feel that long term conditions should result in free prescriptions but as you say, it’s rather arbitrary. On top of that, when those who need something and are told they can’t get it anymore on the NHS, they have to fork out even more to have it privately, which is a kick in the face to say the least. Thank you so much for the comment, Karen! I’ve taken a look at Maria’s site but I wasn’t entirely sure what she wants for project contributions so I’ve sent an email to ask if she still needs anything – Thank you! 🙂

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allysnotebook January 16, 2019 - 2:42 am

I was diagnosed with Pernicious Anemia in 1991 and ever since then I have needed to have B12 injections every 3 months. They are not nice injections. If your body doesn’t need them you can actually overload on B12 in your system and that can be quite dangerous.

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 5:35 pm

I’m sorry you have PA, too. I’ve found them to be the most painful of any injections I’ve ever had, so I agree there that they’re not ‘nice’ ones. Do you find that every 3 months is regular enough for you? Thank you for reading & your comment lovely xx

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suresha B January 16, 2019 - 8:09 am

Thanks for sharing this.

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 5:29 pm

Thanks for reading! 🙂

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Toni January 16, 2019 - 10:02 am

Pretty shocking read Caz, and an eye opener!. If it’s our budget cuts, what else can we do? It saddens me and I hope it gets sorted!. xx

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 5:29 pm

I don’t think the media helps, but budget cuts need to be made and at a local level it seems to be affecting B12 in many NHS localities across England now. When I’ve got my ducks in a row (backed up the actual clinical guidelines and research) I’ll write to my GP practice, clinical commissioning group and MP, and go from there. Thank you for the comment, Toni. I hope you have a lovely week ahead =]
xx

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Darnell January 16, 2019 - 11:33 am

Young minds are influenced by celebrities. So I guess it must be cool to say “I’m taking a B12 injection,” Those that know better do it anyway to be trendy, or be the center of attention for 15 minutes? All unnecessary on all counts. Whats the next thing? Brag about going for a dialysis treatment after a bad night of drinking?

We can’t change the craziness in the world. – We just don’t have to participate.
My Rant… Thanks Caz for touching the topic…

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 5:23 pm

You’re right, easily influenced to look ‘cool’. And don’t even joke about dialysis treatment become a trend for binge drinkers, I can already see the headlines now!!
I really enjoyed your rant, Darnell, thank you! 🙂
xx

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Esther Jackson January 16, 2019 - 2:03 pm

I think any mostly healthy person, should do a simple test before even thinking about such things, and that test is to eat a Vegemite sandwich, if you don’t need B vitamins, you won’t like it at all.

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 5:07 pm

Hahahah, I love it! Please don’t tell the medical decision-makers of this test otherwise they may just start using it! xx

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Kirsty January 16, 2019 - 8:54 pm

I had no idea this was even a thing. So sorry this has happened to you. I hope you will be able to get what you need in future without having to jump through so many hoops. XX

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 4:48 pm

Hopefully a bit more awareness about it can be raised because what too many practices are starting to do to patients is just not acceptable. Thanks for taking the time to read, Kirsty – I hope you’re having a lovely weekend, wrapped up in your weighted blanket! 🙂
xx

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Wendy January 17, 2019 - 5:29 am

I hope it’s okay that I mentioned your blog and this story on my blog.
I hope you are doing okay, I’ve been talking about you a lot the last couple of days, this really pissed me off.
Dangit.
love to you my friend. xoxo

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Richa January 17, 2019 - 8:23 pm

Wow, so ridiculous and irritating! Wish our celebrities were a little more responsible! 🙁

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InvisiblyMe January 19, 2019 - 5:30 pm

I wish both the ‘celebrities’ and the media were a bit more responsible too. Thanks for the comment, Richa – I hope the weekend is a good one for you! 🙂
xx

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Melinda Sandor January 17, 2019 - 9:29 pm

Hi friend
I wanted to join the Fibromyalgia Network, then I saw you had to write about Fibro only. I submitted Survivors Blog here since Fibro a topic more often. Maybe Lee will let Survivors join. I already put the bade on site to show how eager I am. I love the layout of you site. Have a great day. Leet’s think about Popeye and Bruno fighting over Olive.

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InvisiblyMe January 19, 2019 - 5:29 pm

Just replied to your later comment. I’m glad you like my blog, that means a lot. With the network, it’s inclusive so if you have fibro and post, even if sometimes, about it, you’re part of the effort to provide support and raise awareness and that’s what it’s all about. Hah yes good ol’ Popeye! 😀
xx

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Mrs. Ram’s Jams January 18, 2019 - 2:08 am

????????????????????????????????
This is utterly ridicuous. I’ve recently heard of this trend, too and was utterly disgusted by it. As someone who has had to get shots for B12 deficiency before, it just. I. No. Words.

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Mrs. Ram’s Jams January 18, 2019 - 2:11 am

????????????????????????????????????????????????????
As someone who has had to get B12 shots before because of deficiency, this trend is like a slap in the face.

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InvisiblyMe January 18, 2019 - 7:05 am

Exactly! I’m sorry you feel the same, but you’re absolutely right.x

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Mrs. Ram’s Jams January 18, 2019 - 9:11 pm

I didn’t realize my above comments double posted! Ugh!!! I have a hard time getting the comment section to work for your website when I use it through the Wordpress App on my phone! I’ll try to not let it happen again. ????‍♀️????‍♀️????‍♀️????‍♀️

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InvisiblyMe January 19, 2019 - 4:54 pm

You better not let it happen again, tut tut! It’s fine, don’t worry about it at all, I appreciate the comments! I often find glitches with WP and commenting or liking posts, but I’m never quite sure why.. I hope you’re doing okay and having a restful weekend 🙂
xx

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Melinda Sandor January 18, 2019 - 4:33 pm

I’m sending a smile for Fibro Friday, it’s my first and it’s sounds like I’m accepted into the group. Lee sent an email with s lot of info to absorb. I will probably need your help getting up to speed. I’ve been guilty of combining all the ills and pain into one Chronic Illness. Last night was a Fibro night from hell! .Have a great day.

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InvisiblyMe January 19, 2019 - 5:27 pm

Hurrah, I’m glad you’re on board with the fibro group, that’s fab. I’m always around if you need anything. Lee is wonderful, and a great help with sorting out any questions or issues with getting started. The Facebook page is very friendly, just take your time as it sounds like you need a little recuperation after yesterday. I hope the weekend is kinder to you Melinda xx

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Eva January 19, 2019 - 10:56 am

I didn’t know about this until reading it in your blog. Seriously how can this be a fad indeed. I mean it is a treatment not a beauty regimen. Celebrities should instead refocus their attention to awareness rather than vanity.

Growing old gracefully is definitely better.

Thank you for the awareness.

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InvisiblyMe January 19, 2019 - 5:21 pm

If even one person like yourself can become aware of the issue then I’m thrilled the post could do a little good! You’re right, it’s not part of a beauty regimen, and portraying it as such is damaging. Thank you for commenting, Eva – I hope you have a lovely weekend! xx

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Despite Pain January 19, 2019 - 2:08 pm

Yes! Exactly spot on. Celebrities annoy me anyway, but things like this make me annoy them more! I had to have B12 when the doctor discovered I have coeliac, and hadn’t been absorbing nutrients. After about four months, I was tested, and I was just above borderline so they had to be stopped. I said, but it’s come up because of the injections surely? That made no difference, I’d hit the target, so no more. Every time they test, it’s down a little bit more, but apparently not enough to get more B12 injections. Not that I desperately want them, but I felt like I actually needed them. I am gluten free now, so hopefully I am absorbing better,

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InvisiblyMe January 19, 2019 - 4:44 pm

Eugh, that’s so typical. I’m sorry you’ve had such problems with getting treatment, too. The issue with not absorbing things, along with having symptoms that could benefit from this, makes it all the more frustrating because they ‘should’ take a wider view on it, rather than going by numbers on their specific chart for what constitutes normal (and all practices, areas and countries have different ranges!) It’s why more and more people are trying to source their own medications, including B12, but it’s not ideal if you don’t like needles, nor is it great if you can’t afford to do it regularly. When was your last blood test? Might be a good idea to try to get a full work-up, including B12, Vitamin D, ferritin, etc xx

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Despite Pain January 19, 2019 - 2:16 pm

Sorry, I meant to add, the ‘fashion accessory’ really distracts from the seriousness of your illness. When a trend like that catches on, people hear it and assume everyone just gets B12 for fun. It’s like gluten free trends. The actual illnesses which demand a gluten free diet are overlooked., because everyone thinks it’s just a trendy diet which you can hop on and off as you wish.

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InvisiblyMe January 19, 2019 - 4:46 pm

Exactly, it makes it seem as though it’s such a casual thing. It totally distracts from the serious nature of deficiencies and PA and sidelines those who need such a vital medication. Very good point with the gluten free side of things too, which I’ve seen referred to as a fad and trend in the media as well, completely bypassing how it’s an illness that many struggle with! Thank you for sharing this, brilliant comments. xx

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The Lonely Author January 20, 2019 - 1:56 pm

Not surprised that the empty headed Hollywood crowd would be this callous.
This is truly sickening.

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InvisiblyMe January 20, 2019 - 4:13 pm

It’s very frustrating, and the way media reports it and the resulting backlash is a nightmare. Thanks for reading & commenting, the more it’s shouted about the better. xx

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Lindsay January 20, 2019 - 11:21 pm

I read an article about this recently, too! I can’t understand why someone who is simply “tired” would get B12 shots. Like you said, it seems like a popular thing to do, where you can go to a spa and get your shots. I have noticed the same with IVs – it’s the new celebrity hangover cure. Umm, just drink some electrolytes and rest for a day! Meanwhile they’re using up all of the saline (or B12) that those of us with low blood volume (or low B12) actually need.

It angers me.

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InvisiblyMe January 23, 2019 - 5:35 pm

Good point, the whole IV thing became a ‘popular fad’, too. They don’t realise it’s dangerous making it into such a thing, and they neglect to raise awareness of the dangers of underlying health conditions or the vital nature of such medications. It angers me too, Lindsay. Thanks for your comment xx

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Capricious January 21, 2019 - 2:12 pm

This is indeed disheartening and annoying. I’m sorry to hear you’re being affected by these changes. I have a gene mutation that makes it hard for my body to process nutrients so I wanted to mention methylated B12 as a possible alternative. The body doesn’t have to convert it… Maybe it would work better for you than traditional B12 oral supplements? If that doesn’t work, I hope you find another solution. Good luck.

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InvisiblyMe January 23, 2019 - 5:37 pm

I’m sorry you have problems with processing & absorbing nutrients, too. That must be hard work keeping on top of any deficiencies. I’m not sure whether methylated B12 is something I’ve tried before or not, so I’ll have a look into that, thank you. I know that any oral solution doesn’t get absorbed by my stomach, hence the Pernicious Anaemia. I hope you’re able to get the medications and supplements you need that work for you, too. Thanks for the comment =]
xx

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Rachel, The Invisible Hypothyroidism January 22, 2019 - 3:17 pm

Ridiculous.

You make many valid points. What next will be ‘trendy’ I wonder?

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InvisiblyMe January 23, 2019 - 4:29 pm

It’s both the so-called celebs and the media that propagate the idea of trendy things like this, it’s stupid. I wish they’d be a bit more responsible and use it for good, highlighting the dangers of PA & B12 deficiency, the problems people are having with getting the medication, how it’s actually vital… Thanks Rachel, I go on a bit of a rant with ridiculously frustrating things like this! 🙂

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Eliza January 24, 2019 - 4:03 am

This post made me sad.
Thankfully I don’t think it’s like that in the UK. Last time I went to get my b12 tablets renewed the Gp asked me why I wasn’t taking injections bi monthly which is what my Dr had suggested originally (I could never do that. And so long as the tablets do work enough I’ll stick to that). Uh way too much info.
Lotsa hugs Caz.
Keep on trucking….

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InvisiblyMe January 25, 2019 - 4:32 pm

Not too much info at all, thank you for sharing. I don’t absorb so I have to have injections, but GP surgeries in the UK are changing it all to make it harder, or even impossible, for those with PA to get the medication they need. How regularly do you take tablets? I’m glad you find they work well enough for you 🙂 Take care and have a restful weekend.xx

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Eliza February 24, 2019 - 8:40 am

They rather prescribe injections (well maybe that depends) because of the absorbing.
supposedly one before each meal 🙂
Un-supposedly I’m not too good about it. I usually nowadays take a few at least a couple of times a week. Maybe I should find out if my levels are okay with this, but they’re definitely better than what they used to be.
Hope this week is a relaxing week for you
Love, light and glitter

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InvisiblyMe February 27, 2019 - 4:39 am

Injections are definitely better for absorption when your body doesn’t to well with oral supplements. I’m glad you’re getting on okay, I think with something like B12 it should come down to how you feel in your body rather than just numbers and levels all the time. Thanks for sharing, Eliza – I hope you’re doing okay this week xx

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A. Rinum January 24, 2019 - 5:33 pm

Einstein said, “this word is composed of two things hydrogen and stupidity but not exactly in that order.” To be honest I wouldn’t be surprised if celebs make cancer the next trend. And the worst part is that people blindly follow these trends.

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InvisiblyMe January 25, 2019 - 4:27 pm

I like that quote! It’s awful that trends can be so easily followed by a crowd so blindly. I just wish it were used as a means of raising more awareness, for the media to take responsibility and highlight the health issues, the vital nature of the medication, etc, rather than flashing it off as a trend. Thanks for the comment! =]

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Christy B February 12, 2019 - 6:36 pm

The idea of injections as cool or trendy is strange and… I don’t like it! Being healthy, now that’s a good goal.

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InvisiblyMe February 27, 2019 - 4:41 am

Definitely strange. Being healthy is certainly a better goal and a trend to set! x

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Holly March 30, 2019 - 8:36 pm

AMEN!! You just spoke the mind of so many people, including myself.

I’ve always been an oddball in the sense that I don’t enjoy celebs, following Hollywood this or that and to be honest, I get sick and tired of the self-centered, self-serving, vain nonsense they are trying to “sell!” “Look at me, be like me, me me me.” (nausea inserted here!)

What’s worse are in cases like this when they are actually doing harm to people by promoting abuse of a legitimate need for so many. It infuriates me. I’ve seen so many half-brained (at best) ideas coming out of them that it’s simply amazing!

So sorry this will impact you. My hope is that this madness will stop and you’ll be on your regular schedule, as needed. <3

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InvisiblyMe March 31, 2019 - 4:41 pm

I’m an ‘oddball’ with you then Holly as I just don’t ‘get’ the whole celebrity culture or why you’d be so enthralled by it. You’re right, it’s promoting abuse of a legitimate, vital need. You’ve phrased it so well. Thank you for your understanding and such a great comment, it’s very much appreciated! xx

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