When you drink alcohol, you may be lowering your level of Vitamin B-12 -- the vitamin that helps keep us sharp, energized and in a balanced mood.

You're probably aware of the many issues, health and otherwise, linked to excessive drinking: liver disease, ulcers, breast and colon cancer, malnutrition, mental impairment, violence, unintended pregnancy, damaged relationships and finances. You probably also know that, on the other hand, light to moderate alcohol use may actually bring some health benefits regarding the heart and longevity.

Modern medicine defines "light to moderate" drinking this way: an average of one drink per day. And a drink is one 12-ounce beer, one four-ounce glass of wine or one one-ounce shot of liquor. When you go beyond an average of one drink per day for women, or two drinks for men, you might be getting into a danger zone of problem drinking.

A "double whammy" for the brain
Alcohol can affect every part of the nervous system, either directly or indirectly -- indirectly by using up nutrients such as the B vitamins. Over the years, clinical research has shown again and again how important B-12 is to mental function. So in a way, alcohol abuse carries a double whammy: too much alcohol depletes us of the "brainpower" nutrient B-12, and alcohol itself, used long-term, interferes with our brain. No wonder, then, that some experts estimate that as much as 10% of mental confusion and memory loss is due to alcohol abuse.

It's important to recognize that alcoholism has been linked to mood disorders, suicide, mental confusion, anxiety disorders and sleep disturbances. If that sounds a little familiar to regular readers of this column, it's no surprise: I've been reporting for years on the research into B-12 that credits it with a role in mood, memory, mental function and energy.

During April especially, I urge you to be alert to the signs of alcohol abuse -- in yourself or those you care for. Here are four key questions that healthcare providers use to identify those who may be at risk:

Four questions to identify alcohol abuse

1. Have you ever felt you should slow down your drinking?
2. Have you ever felt annoyed by criticism about your drinking?
3. Have you ever felt guilty or bad about drinking?
4. Have you ever felt the need for a drink in the morning to "steady your nerves?"

A "yes" answer to any two of these questions suggests that a problem is likely. Answering "yes" to even one of these questions could indicate a possible problem that should be looked into.

If you drink alcohol, it's another reason to make sure you get enough Vitamin B-12. You should be aware of potential B-12 deficiencies if any of these other risk factors also apply to you: stress, age, taking certain prescription medications, a vegetarian lifestyle, stomach surgery or disease and digestive problems.

When I see patients who are having problems with mood, mental function or lack of energy, I often advise them to supplement with the form of B-12 that gives maximum absorption: Tn Vita's Sublingual B-12. Because it dissolve under the tongue, Sublingual B-12 goes directly into your bloodstream.

If you or a loved one would like to feel more energized, focused and upbeat, I urge you to try TriVita's Sublingual B12.

Source: TriVita VitaJournal, April 2011. Scott Conard, M.D., founded TienaHealth, an organization of medical doctors in primary care practice who emphasize healthy lifestyles to maintain wellness, Dr. Conard is considered a national expert on disease prevention. TienaHealth also conducts clinical trials.

For more information on Sublingual B12
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