Despite its long name, methylcobalamin is just the active form of cobalamin, often known as vitamin B12.
Methylcobalamin: Isn’t the name alone frightening? But don’t get too worked up. Despite the complicated term, we’re discussing the active form of cobalamin, often known as vitamin B12. We’ll learn a bit more about it and how it differs from cyanocobalamin in this post.
Vitamin B12
Let’s take a look at vitamin B12 in general before we get into anything more specialized. Cobalamin is a water-soluble vitamin that aids in the proper functioning of cells and red blood cells, as well as brain health, metabolic maintenance, and DNA synthesis, which is nothing less than the manufacturing of DNA.
This vitamin deficiency may lead to weariness, nerve damage, digestive issues, and neurological issues including depression, memory loss, and difficulties focusing. Vitamin B12 supplements may aid in situations of malabsorption or low intake of vitamin B12-containing foods in this manner – but remember to always get the advice of a physician before using supplements, okay? People who follow a vegan or vegetarian diet, for example, may need to supplement with cobalamin, which is largely found in animal-based foods.
That’s where methylcobalamin comes in, as well as cyanocobalamin, which we’ll speak about briefly.
Methylcobalamin vs Cyanobocalamine: What’s the Difference?
There are two types of vitamin B12 supplements: cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin.
The fundamental difference between both sources is the chemical bond present in the cobalt ion: while methylcobalamin creates this bond with the help of a methyl group, cyanocobalamin produces this bond with the help of a cyanide molecule, thereby explaining the origin of these complex names.
Because it is more stable and cost-effective than other forms of vitamin B12, cyanocobalamin is one of the most often utilized synthetic forms in supplements. After all, it’s a laboratory-created component that doesn’t exist in nature.
Methylcobalamin, unlike cyanocobalamin, is a natural form of vitamin B12 that may be found in foods including fish, milk, red meat, liver, and eggs.
The primary distinction is that one is natural and the other is synthetic.
Another significant distinction between the two actives is how they are absorbed and retained in the human body. According to some research, cyanocobalamin is somewhat more easily absorbed by the body than methylcobalamin. However, other studies show that cyanocobalamin is ejected three times as much in the urine, suggesting that keeping methylcobalamin in the body produces superior effects.
Methylcobalamin: Benefits
Although multiple active forms of vitamin B12 are available as vitamin supplements, it is crucial to remember that methylcobalamin is naturally contained in meals and has greater retention. Most people who eat a well-balanced diet do not need vitamin B12 supplementation.
Although the optimal daily dose of vitamin B12 for an adult is 2.4 mcg per day, this rate might vary depending on the person’s health circumstances or unique demands. People with gastritis, ulcers, or bariatric surgery (which reduces the stomach for weight reduction) may have trouble absorbing and retaining vitamins, for example. In any event, it’s crucial to remember that using methylcobalamin supplements without a doctor’s prescription is not advised.
Also see: Vitamin C With Zinc: What Are The Benefits And When To Take It
