B-12 Methylcobalamin + Folic Acid 1,000mcg - 90 Tabs

B12 Benefits & Support

Methyl B12, like other B vitamins, is a water-soluble vitamin. Methyl B12 functions as a co-enzyme and is involved in the synthesis of the essential amino acid methionine. In the body, Vitamin B12 is used in the regulation and the formation of red blood cells and helps in the utilization of iron and has been shown to assist in lowering homocysteine levels. It helps convert carbohydrates into fat and must be available in the system as it is involved in red blood cell formation.

Deficiency is usually due to a problem in absorption rather than diet. Vitamin B12 is absent from most fruits, vegetables and grains. Vegetarians are more susceptible to deficiency. This is caused by a lack of "intrinsic factors," a substance secreted by the stomach. Folic acid plays an essential role in the synthesis of DNA and RNA and is also key in the formation of red blood cells, protein metabolism, reproduction and growth.

Anemia is a lack of the oxygen carrying ability of red blood cells. B12 regulates blood cell production, with folic acid. Lack of B12 leads to types of anemia where the red blood cells look too large, macrocytic, under the microscope. Supplementing sublingually with B12 reverses this type of anemia. B12 is required for digestion, fertility and the normal growth and development of all cells. It enhances learning and memory, and normalizes sleep patterns.

All of the B vitamins work together and are best used by the body in a B complex, which is why many B complex supplements include a small dose of B12 in them. Most B vitamins are water-soluble and any extra from large doses is flushed out of the body easily, therefore it's best to take lower dosages of the B complex several times a day than one larger dose. Spray or sublingual forms of B vitamins are easily absorbed, as are capsules - if your digestion is healthy, then the tablet form is usually suitable for most people.

If additional supplementation of B12 is needed it can be taken in addition to a B complex. Deficiency of intrinsic factor in the stomach results in the inability of the body to absorb B12. Sublingual formulas are available and are absorbed in the mouth, thereby eliminating the need for intrinsic factor. Methylcobalamin is a form of B12 that is available as a supplement and is easier for the body to use than cyanocobalamin.

B12 is depleted by sedatives, estrogen, oral contraceptives and alcohol. Anti-gout medication, anti-coagulants and potassium supplements block the absorption of B12. Vegetarians that do not consume eggs or dairy products require B12 supplementation. Diets high in protein require more B12 intake.

VITAMIN B12 QUICK FACTS

FOOD SOURCES
Clams, eggs, herring, kidney, liver, mackerel, dairy products, seafood, sea vegetables, nutritional yeast.

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS
Anemia, bone loss, fatigue, constipation, depression, dizziness, enlarged liver, eye disorders, memory loss, neurological damage, heart palpitations.

OPTIMUM DOSAGE
1000 mcg daily. May be given as an injection by a health professional. (Clinical doses may be higher as recommended by your practitioner.)

WORKS WELL WITH:
Vitamin B complex, folic acid, vitamin A, vitamin, C, vitamin E, calcium.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION
The elderly and anyone with impaired digestion are prone to a deficiency of B vitamins, especially B12.
There is no toxicity associated with B12.

FOLIC ACID

Folic acid is a water-soluble member of the B complex. It is also known as folate and folacin. This vitamin is needed for energy production, cell replication and the formation of red and white blood cells. It plays an important role in the conversion of homocysteine into harmless substances. Homocysteine damages the inner lining of arteries and high levels of homocysteine are correlated to an increased risk of atherosclerosis.

Folic acid is especially needed in areas where there is high cell turnover. Therefore it is an essential component of normal fetal development, especially in the first trimester when most of the neural network is laid down.

It is commonly recommended by natural health care practitioners for a variety of different therapeutic applications including: cervical dysplasia, depression, anxiety, anemia and atherosclerosis.