B12- Methylcobalamin

Of all the B vitamins, methylcobalamin is the most chemically complex.  Cobalamins is the general name of the essential compound.  Cobalamins are similar to hemoglobin in the blood except that instead of iron they contain COBALT.  There are many forms of B12 but the most effective is methylcobalamin, the most common form is cyanocobalamin which is much easier to manufacture and less expensive. 
The inexpensive form is harder for the body to absorb and the small amount that is absorbed has trouble finding its way to the cells where it can perform accordingly. 
B12 is converted in small amounts in the liver into cyanocobalamin into methylcobalamin, but larger amounts are needed to receive the benefits from supplementation.
B12 is active in growth and production of the nervous system. 
A Danish study of daily supplementation of 6mg daily appeared to be sufficient enough to correct deficiencies in woman ages 41-75 years. 
Parkinson’s disease may be prevented and the progression may be slowed down when methylcobalamin form is supplemented because it protects against neural toxicity caused by L-dopa, a probable cause of the disease. 
A study conducted by the Journal of Neurological science done in 1994 suggest that methylcobalamin form of B12 could increase the synthesis of certain proteins that help regenerate nerves.  The study showed that high doses produced nerve regeneration in rats. 
B12 is converted homocysteine into methionine which is used to build proteins as well as plays a role in protein synthesis necessary for cardiovascular disease.
Other roles of B12 are:

• Needed to prevent anemia
• Aids folic acid in regulating red blood cells and utilizes IRON
• Required for proper digestion, absorption of food and metabolism of carbs and fats
• Aids in cell formation and cellular longevity
• Prevents nerve damage
• Maintains fertility
• Promotes normal growth and development by maintaining the fatty sheaths that cover and protect nerve endings

A deficiency of B12 caused by malabsorption can cause symptoms such as:

• Gait
• Bone loss
• Chronic fatigue
• Constipation
• Depression
• Digestive disorders
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Enlargement of liver
• Eye disorders
• Hallucinations
• Headaches (including Migraines)
• Inflammation of tongue
• Irritability
• Ringing in the ears

Sources:

• Meat
• Clams
• Eggs
• Liver
• Mackerel
• Milk
• Dairy products
• Seafood
• Sea vegetables

 
NOTE: Antigout medications, anticoagulant and potassium supplementation block absorption of B12 in digestive tract.
​
**Note: this post is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure any illnesses. It is for informational purposes only.  Always read and follow the labels when taking supplements and always consult a healthcare professional.