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Vegan Health: Types of Vitamin B12

METHYLCOBALAMIN VS. CYANCOBALAMIN

Cobalamin (B12) is our powerhouse vitamin. It is an essential cofactor for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production and overall brain health — YOU NEED IT!


WHY SUPPLEMENT | DEFICIENCY | METHYL VS. CYAN | TAKEAWAY | SHOP NOW

Vitamin B12 is good for energy and overall health and should be supplemented by most healthy adults
WHY SUPPLEMENT:
 

If you are plant-based, have restricted absorption (Celiac, Leaky Gut, IBS, IBD, SIBO, Colitis) or you are naturally ageing — like the rest of us 😉— chances are your B12 levels are not up to par!

Because our bodies do NOT produce this water-soluble vitamin, it is essential that we consume a B12 rich diet and supplement on a regular basis. Our B vitamin storage baskets are VERY small, so get your B and get it regularly!

WHAT DEFICIENCY LOOKS LIKE:

Moderate to extreme fatigue, anxiety, depression, memory loss, brain fog, nerve impairment such as tingling or numbness. Symptoms may differ based on age, gender and diet but those listed above are fairly universal red flags.

Vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to fatigue


WHAT'S THE BIG DIFFERENCE?

Methylcobalamin

  • Naturally occurring form of B12
  • Obtained through supplementation, milk, fish, eggs, meat and poultry
  • Can not be converted into other forms of B12 like adenosylcobalamin
  • Higher rates of retention; comparably (slightly) less rates of absorption
  • This is the type we use in our Herbaland Vegan D3 and B12 two-in-one gummy for adults!
    Vitamin B12 can be found in animal-based foods like fish and meat as well as in fortified foods like nut milk or in supplements like Herbaland's Vegan D3 and B12 Gummy

    Cyanocobalamin

    • Synthetic and not found in nature
    • Used because it is cost effective and easy to make
    • After consumption, it is converted into methylcobalamin (active form of B12)
    • Higher rates of absorption; comparably less rates of retention — dollars down the drain.
      BOTTOM LINE:

      Preference — natural vs synthetic & absorption vs retention.  Although methylcobalamin may mean bigger bucks on the shelf, studies show your cells are holding on to it longer! From a food and nutrition approach, naturally occurring molecules that your body recognizes always win the #1 spot! Because both B12 absorption and retention are such a complex and individualized process, trust your instincts and check in with your body periodically!

      PRO TIP:
      Do Not Wait! B12 deficiencies are often undiagnosed until symptoms become severe. Raising your levels can take 3+ months, avoid the deficiency dive by upping your game today!

      • If you suspect a wider issue – look for an impactful B Complex!
      • If you suspect pernicious anemia – see your local MD or Naturopath for testing as B12 injections may be required!
      GET YOUR B12 NOW

      ABOUT LIN IVEY

      Lin Ivey is a Certified Nutritionist and soon to be Chartered Herbalist!

      Lin has a wild passion for anything herbal, health and wellness. She gets joy from helping people improve their sense of wellbeing through active conversation, education and hands-on nutrition practices! Learn more about Lin here.

      First Class Honours graduate of the Institute of Holistic Nutrition: 
      Certified Nutritionist, CNP

      Current student of Dominion Herbal College: 
      Chartered Herbalist, CH

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