Vitamin B12 - A Summary For You
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin with a highly complex structure.
Vitamin B12 is essential for various bodily functions and is essential for the normal function of all cells.
FUNCTIONS
- Red Blood Cell Formation: Vitamin B12 is crucial in the production of red blood cells. A deficiency can lead to anaemia, where the body doesn't have enough red blood cells to transport oxygen efficiently.
- DNA Synthesis: It plays a critical role in the synthesis of DNA, the genetic material in all cells. This is vital for cell division and overall cellular health.
- Nervous System Function: Vitamin B12 is essential for maintaining the health of nerve cells and the production of myelin, a fatty substance that surrounds and protects nerves. It also helps in the production of neurotransmitters, which are chemicals that transmit signals in the brain.
- Energy Production: It helps convert food into glucose, which the body uses for energy. This is why B12 is often associated with energy levels and stamina.
- Heart Health: By helping regulate homocysteine levels (an amino acid in the blood), vitamin B12 reduces the risk of heart disease. High levels of homocysteine are linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular issues.
DEFICIENCIES
A deficiency in vitamin B12 can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weakness, memory problems, mood disturbances, and neurological issues. It is particularly a concern for vegans and vegetarians, as B12 is naturally found in significant amounts primarily in animal products.
SOURCES
Vitamin B12 is present in a bioavailable form in foods of animal origin, including fish and oysters, meat, poultry, egg yolks and dairy products. Beef organs and lamb’s liver are good sources of Vitamin B12
While the majority of non-meat sources of vitamin B12 do not contain the biologically active form, it is possible to get B12 from some non-meat foods. In fact, improvements in B12 status have been observed following the ingestion of nori (seaweed). Nori is said to contain as much B12 as liver (Croft et al 2005), approximately 55-59 mcg/100 g dry weight.
Spirulina contains an inactive form of vitamin B12.
“To ensure easy delivery, many cultures reinforced preconception and pregnancy diets with fish eggs and organ meats – loaded with fat soluble vitamins, B12, and omega-3…” (Shanahan, C. 2107)
SAGE WELLBEING CURATION
At Sage Wellbeing we stock a number of natural health products that contain B12.
Explore vitamin B12 sources here
Cymbiotika’s B12 + B6 is an organic blend of Methylcobalamin, Adenosylcobalamin and Hydroxocobalamin Chloride, the three most bioactive forms of Vitamin B12 plus vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine HCI) and L-Methylfolate (folate), a critically important vitamin for proper methylation and cellular detoxification. Vitamin B12 supports red blood cell production, mood, memory, cellular energy and heart and bone health. This entire formula utilizes our advanced liposomal technology which improves absorption and bioavailability.
Take a look at the 1,097 studies and counting, focusing on Vitamin B12
Methylcobalamin.
WHAT IT IS:
A natural and active coenzyme form of B12.
WHY WE USE IT:
Vitamin B12 supports the mitochondria in your cells. The mitochondria stores energy in each cell, and Adenosylcobalamin helps them utilize food efficiently to produce energy and boost metabolism.
L-Methylfolate
WHAT IT IS:
A bioavailable organic form of the essential mineral folate, also known as levomefolic acid, or vitamin B9.
WHY WE USE IT:
Folate is required for DNA replication, immune system function, and regulation of vital biological cycles. In addition, the body cannot utilize B12 without healthy folate levels.
THE CYMBIOTIKA DIFFERENCE
We specifically chose a non-synthetic methylated form of B12, ensuring that this product is safe for all individuals, including those with the MTHFR gene mutation. All of our raw materials are third-party tested to ensure purity.
Shop Cymbiotika Vitamin B12 here
References:
Croft MT et al. Algae acquire vitamin B through a symbiotic relationship with bacteria. Nature 438.7064 (2005): 90-93.
Shanahan, C. & Shanahan, L. Deep Nutrition: Why Your Genes Need Traditional Food, New York : Flatiron Books, 2017, p47.
Weston A Price Nutrition and Physical Degeneration, Price Pottenger Foundation, 1945, p402