Methylcobalamin is a highly absorbable form of vitamin B-12. It is needed to create red blood cells and DNA, in addition to helping maintain homocysteine balance as well as:**
What is Methylcobalamin?
This compound, along with adenosylcobalamin, is one of two coenzymes that becomes an active form of vitamin B-12 (cobalamin) in the body. As vitamin B-12, methylcobalamin plays numerous essential roles in overall well-being. Most notably, the compound promotes energy metabolism in all cells, including red blood cells, and is particularly crucial for the synthesis of DNA. Vitamin B-12 also supports the cardiovascular and nervous systems, and appears to play a role in healthy neurotransmitter production. Research has suggested that methylcobalamin, thanks to its ability to help maintain ideal homocysteine levels, may also benefit sleep, mood and cognition.**
Methylcobalamin differs from some other forms of B-12 because it is natural and appears to exhibit significantly greater activity, bioavailability, and absorption than its synthetic B-12 counterparts (cyanocobalamin). Synthetic forms must be converted into active B-12 in order to perform any health-promoting biological actions. This conversion process reduces nutritional efficiency, adding to the other challenges of getting sufficient B-12. B-12 absorption decreases and B-12 deficiency escalates as we grow older. In fact, approximately 15% of those aged 60 or over are likely deficient in B-12. The natural methylcobalamin form’s superior bioavailability may be especially beneficial in populations who have difficulty absorbing vitamin B-12 because of advancing age or health issues.**
Since dietary sources of B-12 are animal-derived foods, including meat, fish, poultry, eggs and dairy products, vegans and even vegetarians often lack necessary levels of B-12 and may also benefit from methylcobalamin supplementation: It offers a highly bioavailable source of a key wellness nutrient that is not taken from animals.**
Methylcobalamin Supplements
Methylcobalamin supplements are commonly available as regular or chewable tablets and lozenges. Fast-dissolving forms are often preferred because they are believed to offer greater bioavailability and more complete absorption in populations who may need additional B-12.**
Methylcobalamin Directions for Use
Consult with your health care professional prior to or starting any nutritional supplement regimen. Natural B-12 supplements are usually presented in the range of 2,000 mcg to 5,000 mcg.**
