Vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin)

What is methylcobalamin?

Vitamin B12 is the umbrella term for several compounds that contain cobalt – hence the name cobalamin. In food supplements you will mainly find methylcobalamin, cyanocobalamin, adenosylcobalamin and hydroxocobalamin. Methylcobalamin is a naturally occurring form that many people choose on purpose.

Vitamin B12 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue and to the normal function of the nervous system. These statements apply to vitamin B12 in general, not just to one particular form.

Who thinks about B12?

Vitamin B12 is found almost only in foods of animal origin. That is why people on a vegan diet pay particular attention to getting enough. Many methylcobalamin products are vegan, because the vitamin is produced by microbial fermentation – still, check the capsule shell and additives.

Our range

• Lozenges: Jarrow Formulas Methyl B-12 with 500, 1000, 2500 and 5000 µg, in cherry, lemon, tropical or fruit flavour; NOW Foods Methyl B-12 with 1000 and 5000 µg.
• With folate: NOW Foods Methyl B-12 with Folic Acid and Jarrow Formulas Methyl B-12 & Methyl Folate in lemon or cherry. Folate also contributes to a reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
• Capsules and tablets: Life Extension Vitamin B12 Methylcobalamin with 500 µg, Swanson Vitamin B-12 Methylcobalamin with 5000 µg.
• Liposomal: Osavi Liposomal Vitamin B12 with 100 µg.

What to look for

• Amount in µg: the range goes from 100 to 5000 µg per serving. Follow the dose on the label.
• Format: lozenges dissolve in the mouth, capsules are swallowed.
• Sweeteners and flavours: lozenges are usually flavoured, for example with cherry or lemon.
• Combinations: methylfolate or folic acid are common partners of B12.

If you take medicines or are pregnant, ask your doctor first. Food supplements are not a substitute for a varied diet.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between methylcobalamin and cyanocobalamin?

Both are forms of vitamin B12. Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic, very stable form, while methylcobalamin also occurs naturally.

Is methylcobalamin vegan?

The vitamin itself is made by microbial fermentation. Whether the whole product is vegan is stated on the label.

How do I take a lozenge?

Let it dissolve slowly in your mouth instead of swallowing it.