We’ve all heard of Vitamin B12, and how it can enhance mood, boost cognition, and even improve the appearance of our hair and nails. But what you may not know is there are multiple forms of B12. One form in particular, methylcobalamin, is essential for energy, brain health, and overall longevity. With multiple forms of B12, how do we know which of them are most beneficial and befitting of our needs? Let’s take a closer look at B12 and its two most common forms, methylcobalamin and cyanocobalamin.
What is B12?
As an active form of Vitamin B12, cobalamin plays a critical role in nerve health, blood cell production, brain health, and even pain relief. While we get Vitamin B12 from our diet, like fish, meat, eggs, and dairy, cobalamin can also be supplemented if deficiencies are discovered for individuals who may have trouble absorbing it from food.
What’s the Difference Between Methylcobalamin (B12 Shots) and Cyanocobalamin (Synthesized B12)?
There are key differences between methylcobalamin—the form of B12 in injections—and cyanocobalamin—the type of Vitamin B12 that can be found in most synthesized forms available.
Chemical structure
Methylcobalamin has a methyl group attached to its structure, while the synthetic cyanocobalamin form contains a cyanide group. The body must convert cyanocobalamin to methylcobalamin before it’s absorbed for use. Methylcobalamin requires no conversion.
Bioavailability
Methylcobalamin is highly bioavailable, not only because it requires no conversion for absorption, but also because the body can retain it for longer. This is of particular advantage for neurological health, as B12 produces myelin, the protective covering of nerve fibers. The longer B12 is retained, the more nerves it can protect.
Wide range of uses
Methylcobalamin supports nerve health, but it’s also been studied for its pain killing properties, as well as its ability to support melatonin production. Additionally, methylcobalamin has been found to help prevent anemia, as it helps in the formation of healthy red blood cells.
What is the Best Method for Taking B12?
There is often a question about the best delivery method for medications and whether injections are necessary when oral methods are available. There are several reasons B12 shots may be the most beneficial method of administration for methylcobalamin:
- Injections have enhanced absorption over oral supplements because they bypass the digestive system completely. The digestive system can also have a negative impact on the supplement’s potency, so bypassing it is beneficial.
- B12 injections are directly administered to the bloodstream, where the methylcobalamin can be absorbed by the body without delay, especially since the injection form of B12 does not need to be converted from cyanocobalamin.
- For individuals over 50, it can become more difficult to metabolize oral supplements and make use of their benefits. Injectables such as B12 shots become more effective with increased chronological and cellular age.
What are the Benefits of B12 Shots?
- Energy boost is one of the B12 shot’s biggest benefits. B12 helps the body convert food into energy, which is one reason it’s long been studied for use in sports nutrition. B12 is also frequently recommended to combat fatigue.
- Neurological benefits are at the top of the B12 shot’s benefit list, particularly due to its nerve regenerative properties and protection of nerve fibers. The B12 shot is also known for improving nerve conduction, and it may help reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
- Mood enhancement is another benefit, due to the B12 shot’s involvement in the production of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, that regulate mood and alleviate anxiety. Methylcobalamin injections combat B12 deficiency, which is linked to depression and other mood disorders.
- Cardiovascular improvement is possible due to the B12 shot’s ability to lower homocysteine levels. Reduced homocysteine is linked to lower risk of heart disease.
- Healthy skin, hair, and nails are another benefit of B12 shots, thanks to the enhanced production of collagen, better moisture retention in the skin that reduces the complexion’s dryness, and a reduction of inflammation that can alleviate conditions like acne. Better moisture retention also reduces the chance for hair and nail brittleness and thinning.
Are there Side Effects from Taking B12 Shots?
Individuals taking B12 supplements may experience mild side effects from the shots, including injection site discomfort, skin flushing, nausea, loss of appetite, headaches, vomiting, and diarrhea. It is important to follow your practitioner’s advice concerning dosage and supplement administration. If you suffer from these side effects, have a candid conversation with your provider about your discomfort levels. Some of these effects may subside as your body acclimates to the supplement.
If you suspect an allergy to B12 or cobalt, or have certain medical conditions, or are pregnant or may become pregnant, you may not qualify as a candidate for the B12 supplement.
Who Should Take B12 and Why?
Ideal candidates for B12 shots are adults interested in enhancing energy, boosting cognitive function, and improving physical and overall health and well-being. B12 can be taken to improve longevity and cellular health and increase vitality as individuals age, which can improve overall quality of life. B12 can also increase cardiovascular health and improve cognition while reducing the risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases.
Conclusion
At EllieMD, our B12 products are designed to support many body functions while enhancing strength, stamina, and promoting a healthy aging experience. B12 can improve overall health at the cellular level through its regenerative properties. Its long-studied benefits come with little downside, and in this highly bioavailable form, there’s a lot of power packed into this essential nutrient. Taking B12 is an excellent solution for individuals looking to improve longevity and support healthy aging. At EllieMD, we offer B12 to help boost your energy, metabolism, and overall well-being.
