What are the 4 types of B12?
Everyone should understand the importance of getting enough B12 in the diet, something that is usually easier said than done. Some estimates show up to 40% of the US population suffer from some form of B12 deficiency. That’s almost half of the population, knowing the four different types of B12 will allow you to choose the right one for you.
1. Methylcobalamin
This is the most active form in the human body. It converts homocysteine into methionine, which helps protect the cardiovascular system. Methylcobalamin also offers overall protection to the nervous system. This B12 form can also cross the blood brain barrier without assistance to protect brain cells. It contributes essential methyl groups needed for detoxification and to start the body’s biochemical reactions.
2. Cyanocobalamin
The synthetics version of vitamin B12 is created in a lab, which makes it the cheapest supplement option. It offer the most stable for of B12, although it does so through the presence of a cyanide molecule. While the amount of cyanide is not dangerous, it does require the body to expend energy to convert and remove it.
3. Hydroxocobalamin
Bacteria naturally creates this form of vitamin B12, making it the main type found in most foods. It easily converts into methylcobalamin in the body. Hydroxocobalamin is commonly used via injection as a treatment for B12 deficiency as well as a treatment for cyanide poisoning.
4. Adenosylcobalamin
The energy formation that occurs during the citrus acid cycle requires this form a B12. Although naturally occurring, it is the least stable of the four types of B12 outside the human body and does not translate well into a tablet based supplement. It can be difficult to find this one in supplement form, although some supplements, like vegan safe, have been able to stabilize it.
Why is methylcobalamin better?
Vitamin B12 supplements are typically derived from two sources: cyanoxobalamin or methylcobalamin. Both are nearly identical and contain a cobalt ion surrounded by a corrin ring. However, each have a different molecule attached to the cobalt ion. While methylcobalamin contains a methyl group, cyanocobalamin contains a cyanide molecule. Cyanocobalamin is synthetic form of vitamin B12 that is not found in nature. It’s used more frequently in supplement, as it’s considered more stable and cost effective than other forms of vitamin B12. When cyanocobalamin enters your body, it’s converted into either methylcobalamin or adenosylcobalamin, which are the tow active forms of vitamin B12 in human.