An issue of debate for many nutrition experts is that which form of vitamin B12 is better? Cyanocobalamin or methylcobalamin. Medbound Times had a conversation with Dr. Jeethan Bendoor regarding this comparison.
Dr. Jeethan Bendoor is a Clinician. He is an antiaging and nutrition expert. He has a private clinic in Mumbai, India.
Cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin are two different forms of vitamin B12, which is an essential nutrient for various bodily functions, including the production of red blood cells and the maintenance of nerve cells. The main difference between these two forms lies in their chemical structure and their bioactive forms within the body.
Cyanocobalamin: Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic form of vitamin B12 that is commonly used in supplements and as an injectable form for the treatment of vitamin B12 deficiency. It is created by attaching a cyanide molecule to a cobalamin molecule. In the body, cyanocobalamin is converted into its active forms, methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin, through enzymatic reactions.
Methylcobalamin: Methylcobalamin is the active form of vitamin B12. It naturally occurs in various foods, including meat, fish, and dairy products. Methylcobalamin does not require conversion within the body and is readily available for absorption and utilization. It plays a crucial role in methylation reactions, which are involved in DNA synthesis, nerve function, and the production of certain neurotransmitters.
When it comes to supplementation, both cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin are used to address vitamin B12 deficiency.
According to Dr. Jeethan Bendoor, there are some considerations to keep in mind:
Stability: Cyanocobalamin is more stable and has a longer shelf life compared to methylcobalamin. This stability makes cyanocobalamin a common choice for oral supplements.
Bioavailability: Methylcobalamin has higher bioavailability compared to cyanocobalamin. This means that methylcobalamin is more easily absorbed and utilized by the body. It may be a preferred form for individuals with certain absorption issues or conditions that affect vitamin B12 metabolism.
Conversion: Cyanocobalamin needs to be converted into methylcobalamin or adenosylcobalamin in the body before it can be used. Methylcobalamin, being the active form, bypasses this conversion step.
Dr. Jeethan Bendoor prefers Methylcobalamin, the active form of vitamin B12. Similarly it is is preferred by some individuals and many healthcare practitioners for several reasons:
Enhanced Bioavailability: Methylcobalamin has higher bioavailability compared to cyanocobalamin. It is readily absorbed and utilized by the body without the need for conversion. This can be particularly beneficial for individuals with certain absorption issues or conditions that affect vitamin B12 metabolism.
Nerve Function Support: Methylcobalamin is involved in the formation of myelin, a protective sheath around nerve fibers. It is essential for maintaining proper nerve function and can be particularly relevant for individuals with neurological conditions or those experiencing neuropathic symptoms.
Methylation Support: Methylcobalamin plays a key role in methylation reactions, which are involved in various important processes in the body. Methylation is crucial for DNA synthesis, neurotransmitter production, detoxification pathways, and gene expression regulation.
Potential Eye Health Benefits: Some research suggests that methylcobalamin may have a positive impact on eye health. It is believed to play a role in reducing the risk of certain eye conditions, such as age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and diabetic retinopathy. However, further studies are needed to fully understand its effects in this regard.
Individual Response: Some individuals may subjectively experience better results or fewer side effects with methylcobalamin compared to cyanocobalamin. Personal response to different forms of vitamin B12 can vary, and methylcobalamin may be a preferred option based on individual needs and tolerability.
It's important to note that both cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin have been shown to effectively address vitamin B12 deficiency. The choice between the two forms should be made based on individual circumstances and with the guidance of a healthcare professional.
