What is Vitamin B12? Cyanocobalamin vs Methylcobalamin

Everyone complains that the body does not feel energetic despite consuming enough food. Fatigue after doing some work. We get a headache. And sometimes we get really bored for no reason. Sitting in one place for a long time causes empty feet. Our Whole body hurts while sleeping at night. Day by day the memory also seems to have diminished. Each of these symptoms indicates a vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) deficiency.

We need all kinds of nutrients like proteins, carbohydrates, minerals, and vitamins to keep the body functioning properly. When any of these types of deficiency occurs in the body, the metabolism and the mechanism deteriorate.

The important thing to maintain our body well is to have a balanced diet in our daily routine. Our diet should include all types of healthy foods, including all types of fruits, vegetables, and dairy products.

Each food and vitamin has individual importance in our body. Each vitamin is needed by the body to function properly. But among all vitamins, vitamin B complex and vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) play an important role in the body.

What is vitamin B complex?

Vitamin B complex is a group of eight vitamins. Including vitamins B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folic acid) and B12 (cyanocobalamin).

Although the role and need of all the B complexes in our body function are different, our body needs vitamin B12 very much. Vitamin B12 is also known as cyanocobalamin, cobalamin, and methylcobalamin.

Vitamin B12 is important for people of all ages, whether they are infants, children, men, women, or adults. Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) is very important for everyone.

Cyanocobalamin vs Methylcobalamin

The body needs vitamin B12, which comes in two distinct chemical forms: cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin. Although they both have the same basic function, there are some distinctions between them, mostly in terms of their chemical makeup and possible health advantages.

Cobalamin, often known as vitamin B12, is a necessary nutrient that is important for many body processes, including neuron function, the creation of red blood cells, and DNA synthesis. It is necessary to sustain general health and wellbeing. However, there are other forms of vitamin B12 that may be found in supplements and pharmaceuticals; the two most popular ones are cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin. Making educated decisions about vitamin B12 intake requires an understanding of the distinctions between these two types.

Chemical Structure:

The primary distinction between cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin lies in their chemical structures:

1. Cyanocobalamin:

• Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic form of vitamin B12.
• It contains a cyanide molecule (CN-) bonded to the cobalt atom at the center of the B12 molecule.
• This form is more stable and less prone to degradation, making it suitable for use in supplements and medications.

1. Methylcobalamin:

• Methylcobalamin is a naturally occurring form of vitamin B12 that is found in animal-based foods.
• It has a methyl group (CH3) attached to the cobalt atom at the center of the B12 molecule.
• Methylcobalamin is the biologically active form of B12 in the human body and does not require conversion.

Absorption and Bioavailability:

The bioavailability of a nutrient refers to the extent and rate at which it is absorbed and used by the body. In this regard, there are significant differences between cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin:

1. Cyanocobalamin:

• Cyanocobalamin requires conversion by the body before it can be utilized. After ingestion, the body must remove the cyanide molecule and replace it with a methyl group.
• This conversion process occurs in the liver, and it is not as efficient for some individuals, particularly those with certain medical conditions that affect their ability to convert cyanocobalamin effectively.
• Consequently, some people may not derive as much benefit from cyanocobalamin supplements due to issues with absorption and conversion.

1. Methylcobalamin:

• Methylcobalamin is the active form of vitamin B12 that the body can readily use.
• It does not require conversion, making it highly bioavailable.
• This form is particularly advantageous for individuals with conditions that hinder the conversion of cyanocobalamin or those who need rapid B12 supplementation.

Health Benefits and Considerations:

When comparing cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin, it’s important to consider their potential health benefits and specific applications:

Cyanocobalamin:

1. Prevention and Treatment of B12 Deficiency: Cyanocobalamin is widely used to prevent and treat vitamin B12 deficiency, which can lead to anemia, nerve damage, and other health problems.
2. Stability: Its synthetic nature and greater stability make cyanocobalamin a common choice for use in supplements, fortified foods, and medications.
3. Cost-Effective: Cyanocobalamin supplements are often more affordable than methylcobalamin supplements.

Methylcobalamin:

1. Neurological Health: Methylcobalamin is often favored for its potential neurological benefits. It can support nerve health and may be used in conditions like peripheral neuropathy.
2. Rapid Absorption: Due to its immediate usability by the body, methylcobalamin is ideal for individuals who require fast-acting B12 supplementation.
3. Methylation Support: Some people prefer methylcobalamin for its potential role in supporting methylation processes in the body, which are crucial for DNA synthesis and other biochemical reactions.

Safety Considerations:

Both cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin are generally considered safe when taken at recommended doses. However, there are some safety considerations to keep in mind:

1. Cyanocobalamin: Cyanocobalamin contains a small amount of cyanide, which is naturally excreted by the body in minimal quantities. While the amount of cyanide in cyanocobalamin supplements is generally not considered harmful, it has raised concerns for some individuals, especially those with a history of smoking or specific medical conditions.
2. Methylcobalamin: Methylcobalamin is the naturally occurring form of B12 found in foods, and it does not contain cyanide. It is generally considered safe for most people.

Choosing Between Cyanocobalamin and Methylcobalamin:

The choice between cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin depends on individual needs and preferences. Here are some factors to consider:

1. Health Condition: If you have a specific medical condition that affects B12 absorption or requires rapid supplementation, methylcobalamin may be a better choice. Discuss with your healthcare provider.
2. Cost: Cyanocobalamin supplements are often more budget-friendly, which can be a factor for some individuals.
3. Form: Consider whether you prefer supplements in the form of tablets, capsules, injections, or other forms, as both cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin are available in various formats.
4. Neurological Concerns: If you have neurological issues or concerns, methylcobalamin may be a preferred option.
5. Dietary Restrictions: Individuals following a strict vegan diet may opt for methylcobalamin, as it is the form naturally found in plant-based foods.

What benefits of vitamin B12 and why vitamin B12 is necessary for our body?

Vitamin B12 deficiency acts as a slow poison to our body. Vitamin B12 is essential for the development of blood cells. Iron is also necessary for absorption in the body. Keeps brain cells healthy. Strengthens muscles and bones. It is necessary to maintain the balance of hormones in the body. Bal helps in circulation. Gives energy to the body. Essential for healthy digestive function.

Protects pregnant women from high blood pressure. It also protects the fetus from malformations and is essential for a healthy brain and proper development of the infant. Provides energy to the feeding mother.

Helps prevent age-related dementia in adults. It also improves vision and provides strength to the body. Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) is required for every function of the entire body.

Vitamin B12 increases brain concentration. Also essential for healthy skin, hair, and nails. Helps in skin renewal. It also produces different proteins for different parts of the body. Vitamin B12 is responsible for building and maintaining DNA.

What changes occur in the body due to vitamin B12 deficiency?

Long-term deficiency puts a person at risk of developing mental illnesses like dementia and depression. Excessive carelessness can sometimes lead to serious brain diseases that cannot be prevented. Memory decreases.
Mainly it damages brain and nervous system function.

Problems like weakness, spasms, stroke-like heart disease, spinal pain, dizziness, loss of appetite, asthma, and reduced number of reproductive cells.

Mental problems such as depression and anxiety, confusion, mental disturbances, dementia, and memory loss.
Hemoglobin level decreases.

Orthostatic hypotension.
The ability of white blood cells (WBC) to kill bacteria is impaired.
If B12 is deficient, the risk of infection is also high.

Frequent sores in the mouth and sores around the lips. The skin becomes dull.
Bored for no reason. Tingling and pain in the body. The body feels very tired. Hands and feet begin to tingle. Constant headache. A problem like a sudden increase in heart rate occurs.

Who can get vitamin B12 deficiency?

Vitamin B12 is water soluble and is excreted from the body daily. That is why you need to take it in your daily diet. Otherwise, its deficiency may occur. The absorption of nutrients in any food we eat takes place in the small intestine during the digestive process.

People who eat a vegetarian diet, i.e. milk and milk products, may be deficient in B vitamins.

Apart from this, people who take high acidity tablets, and also consume alcohol, may be deficient in vitamin B12.

B12 deficiency can occur in pregnant women as the vitamin requirement is higher during that stage.

What foods can contain vitamin B12?

• Vitamin B12 is mostly obtained from animal foods such as:
• Eggs, beef (liver), chicken, crab, shellfish, fish (mackerel), meat, etc.
• But vegetarians also have many options viz
• Green vegetables, curd, milk, cheese, dry fruits.
• Fruits include watermelon, avocado
• Soybeans and soybean products are also good sources of vitamin B12.
• Sprouts and mushrooms.
• Tuberous root vegetables like beetroot, potato, sweet potato, carrot, etc
• If there is more deficiency of vitamin B12, apart from food, we can take supplements after consulting a doctor. A doctor must be consulted as an overdose of B12 is also harmful to health.

Home remedies

Drink cumin water every morning. Cumin contains a good amount of B12 and also helps in fat loss.
Ginger water is also a good source of vitamin B12.

Summary

To keep the body functioning well and healthy, we should eat a balanced diet. Vitamin B12 deficiency affects our functioning. Cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin are two common forms of vitamin B12, each with its own set of characteristics and potential benefits. Understanding the differences between them can help individuals make informed choices about their B12 supplementation, with consideration for their specific health needs and preferences. It’s always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen to determine the most suitable form and dosage for your individual circumstances.