Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
Vitamin B12 fulfils a number of important functions in the body: it can help to reduce tiredness and fatigue and maintain a normal energy metabolism; it contributes to the normal functioning of the psyche, immune and nervous systems; supports the formation of red blood cells; and is beneficial for normal homocysteine metabolism. The body also needs vitamin B12 for cell division.
Vitamin B12 acts as a so-called coenzyme in the body, meaning it is necessary for certain enzymes to fulfil their tasks. The associated reactions are directly dependent on vitamin B12 and cannot take place without it.
Natural, Bioactive Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) exists in various forms, each with different roles in the body. The natural forms of vitamin B12 that are directly active in the body are referred to as "bioactive coenzymes." Synthetic forms of vitamin B12, such as the commonly used cyanocobalamin, do not have direct vitamin activity and must be converted by the body into a usable form.
Methylcobalamin
Methylcobalamin is one of the two natural bioactive coenzymes of vitamin B12. It can be directly utilised by the body without conversion and is known for its excellent bioavailability.
Methylcobalamin is the predominant form of vitamin B12 in the blood and cell plasma. Along with folic acid, it plays a role in the cell plasma as part of the methylation cycle, which is important for numerous central physiological processes such as cell division and the synthesis of hormones and neurotransmitters. Methylcobalamin is also involved in the breakdown of homocysteine, supports healthy nerve metabolism and contributes to normal psychological function.
According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA):
Vitamin B12 contributes to:
- normal energy metabolism
- normal functioning of the nervous system
- normal homocysteine metabolism
- normal mental function
- normal formation of red blood cells
- normal function of the immune system
- reduction of tiredness and fatigue
- cell division
