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Supplement Articles |
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METHYLCOBALAMIN
Articles by a Naturopathic
Doctor ( N.D.)
Methylcobalamin is a form of vitamin B12 which differs from cyanocobalamin in that cyanide is replaced by a methyl group. It is thought to be more easily absorbed and easier for the body to use because it does not require conversion ...
It tends to be more expensive to make and therefore less often seen in multi-vitamins or B complex supplements than its counterpart cyanocobalamin. Because the liver is the site of conversion from cyanocobalamin to methylcobalamin and because the conversion process requires an already hard at work and sometimes deficient antioxidant (L-glutathione), the conversion process may be significantly impaired in individuals with liver pathologies. In cases like these, supplementation with methylcobalamin is necessary. |
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METHYLCOBALAMIN |
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Methylcobalamin is a superior form of B12 for boosting your brain! |
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Methylcobalamin has an affinity for the liver, the brain and the nervous system. It is the form that is active in our central nervous system and strongly responsible for nervous system health. Signs of methylcobalamin deficiency in the nervous system include tingling, numbness, loss of sensation or burning sensations, muscle cramps, or diminished reflexes. For these reasons it is commonly used for the treatment of peripheral neuropathy or diabetic neuropathy. It is also more recently being studied as a treatment for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Also related to brain function, methylcobalamin plays a role in vision, particularly in improving and maintaining visual accommodation.
Methylcobalamin has been most studied in terms of its impact on sleep. Although the exact mechanism is unknown, it is thought that methylcobalamin is needed for the synthesis and diurnal secretion of melatonin. The use of methylcobalamin enhances light sensitivity, normalizes circadian rhythms and if often associated with improved sleep quality, a more rested feeling upon waking and possibly a decreased sleep requirement. There is also evidence to show that along with these findings, 24 hour cortisol levels and well as temperature regulation were also connected to the use of methylcobalamin.
Vegetarians or vegans often require a form of B12 supplement as it is naturally present in only red meat, poultry, fish, eggs, milk and milk products. The optimum dosage for clinical effect is anywhere from 1000-6000 mcg, although the RDI is much lower at only 6mcg. Consult your healthcare provider to see what dose is right for you. Methylcobalamin can be taken orally, intramuscular, or intravenously. |
METHYLCOBALAMIN –
QUICK FACTS
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FOOD SOURCES
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· Meat, poultry, fish, eggs, milk and dairy products. |
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APPLICATIONS |
· Insomnia, shift work, poor sleep habits, peripheral neuropathy, diabetic neuropathy, cardiovascular disease (to decrease homocysteine), diminished visual accommodation. |
OPTIMUM
DOSAGE
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6-1500 mcg/day |
WORKS WELL
WITH
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· Folic acid (folate) |
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IMPORTANT
INFORMATION
click for products |
· Methylcobalamin is well tolerated with no known toxicities. |
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