J - the intestines/poor B vit absorption/Vegetarism

[Guest guest]

(and others):

Would like your input please:

I know that some B vits are synthesized and absorbed in the

intestine (and that colbalt, and iron are precursor players).

I also know that only a small amount can be absorbed at a time (so

when supplementing more isn't always better).

SYMPTOM:

Friend with RA (dx in 1992), She is not anemic, but RBC profile

shows old RBCs (not turning over fast enough). Seems to be on the

cusp for a B vitamin deficiency- despite supplements and a good diet.

Maybe of importance is that she's been a vegetarian since 1988

although does eat chicken and fish. She does not drink alcohol (or

smoke).

B deficiency symtpoms are exacerbated by taking abx or drug/drug

combo's that interfere with B synthesis (or absorption)...

deficiency SYMPTOMS ARE: gum and mouth lesions and blood in urine.

PRESUMED PROBLEM:

We're thinking that for some reason her intestinal microbes are

either not synthesizing B vits - and/or the synthetic supplements are

not being absorbed.

QUESTION:

Could this stem from intestinal flora imbalance?

Or could this be diet.... or somehow disease related?

Does this have anything to do with NOT eating RED meat?

Any info as to how to correct this would be appreciated.

Thanks,

Barb