It’s not likely you’re getting Vitamins in your stocking this year, so we thought we’d give you some information regarding one of the vitamins we get the most questions about – B12. Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that occurs naturally in some foods, is added to others, and available as a dietary supplement or prescription medication. Vitamin B12 is required for proper red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. B12 is naturally found in fish, beef, pork, lamb, wild game, poultry, eggs, milk, and milk products but is generally not present in plant foods. Fortified breakfast cereals are a readily available source of vitamin B12 with high bioavailability for those avoiding animal sources. There are several forms of B12, and each contains the mineral cobalt, so compounds with vitamin B12 activity are collectively called “cobalamins” – methylcobalamin, cyanocobalamin, and hydroxycobalamin are the forms used in supplements. Methylcobalamin and 5-deoxyadenosylcobalamin are the forms of vitamin B12 that are active in human metabolism. However, some people have functional problems with the methylated forms of B vitamins (and methyl donors), including B12, so taking either the cyanocobalamin or hydroxycobalamin forms of B12 may be a better option for those with methylation problems. If you are curious about nutrition and brain health Dr. Ben Lynch’s book Dirty Genes is a great resource, or you can schedule a visit with one of our certified Brain Health Coaches to discuss testing and supplementation options. #changinglivesonebrainatatime #brainhealth #trainyourbrainchangeyourlife #loveyourbrain #brainandbehaviorassociates
Merry Christmas,
Wes