MethylCobalamin (Vitamin B12) is a co-enzyme, methyl form of Vitamin B-12 that is more specific to the central nervous system and brain than the standard, supplemental synthetic form of B-12, cyancobalamin.
Vitamin B12 is used orally for anemia, aging, improving concentration, mood elevation, boosting energy, and raising energy levels.
The methylcobalamin form of vitamin B12 is required in one of the pathways for homocysteine (Hcy) metabolism. Elevated Hcy levels have been implicated in accelerated cognitive decline, and memory loss. METHC plus vitamin B-6 and folic acid can lower Hcy and improve brain health and cognitive performance.
METHC has other unique properties. For one it’s a neuroprotective agent which means it can help neutralize the brain damaging effects of certain neurotoxins such as, calcium overload in the brain cells. It also helps accelerate the repair of damaged neural tissue which takes place daily as a result of aging, lifestyle excesses, free radicals and oxidative stress, inflammation and calcium overload.
Methylcobalamin may even help regenerate brain cell connections called axons. These, as well as dendrites are the “wires, or cables” that enable neurons to communicate with each other. METHC also supports synthesis of the myelin sheath which is the vital electrical insulation of the brain’s axons. This helps the brain communicate your perceptions, thoughts, memories, decisions and emotions faster and more efficiently throughout more of the brain.
Vitamin B12 is involved in fat and carbohydrate metabolism and protein synthesis. Vitamin B12 is essential for folate utilization, and its absence results in a functional folate deficiency. Vitamin B-12 deficiency may be a predominant cause of, or at least major contributor to cognitive dysfunction and memory loss, especially with vegetarians and seniors. For one, as we age the intestinal absorption of B-12 from foods is reduced. Secondly, older people and of course, vegetarians tend to eat less animal protein which is a primary source of B-12.
Some researchers think that vitamin B12 supplements could help symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome by correcting red blood cell abnormalities and improving oxygen delivery to tissues. The methylcobalamin form of vitamin B12 might also influence melatonin levels. Methylcobalamin seems to improve alertness and reduce sleep time in humans with normal sleep patterns, possibly due to effects on melatonin.
References:
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