Methylcobalamin - Active Vitamin B12

BioActive B12 contains round, pinkish lozenges with a pleasant peppermint taste. Each tablet contains 600 micrograms of methylcobalamin, which is vitamin B12 in its active form. The tablets can be chewed or let to dissolve into the mouth. In this case, they will predominantly be absorbed via the oral mucous membrane. While the dosage is high compared with the recommended daily allowance (RDA), it is not associated with any risk of an overdose.

What is B12 vitamin?
Vitamin B12 is called cobalamin. It is named after the trace mineral cobalt, which is a part of the vitamin. Like the other B vitamins, vitamin B12 is water-soluble. B12 is absorbed into the blood from the small intestine but only if it is encapsulated in a protective accessory protein called "intrinsic factor" produced in the stomach. After absorption, some of the B12 is deposited in the liver. Under normal conditions, the liver stores around 1-2 mg of vitamin B12. After vitamin B12 is used, it is excreted into the bile, and half is recycled. For that reason, a dietary B12 deficiency will not have immediate effects.
There are four versions of vitamin B12. The most common form used in dietary supplements is cyanocobalamin, followed by hydroxocobalamin. Adenosylcobalamin and methylcobalamin are the other two forms, and they are the active forms of vitamin B12.

Why active B12?
The body must convert vitamin B12, in the form of cyanocobalamin and hydroxocobalamin, into an active form it can use. The body's ability to activate the B12 usually diminishes with age or can be compromised (as in chronic gastritis or gastrectomy). 

Effects of vitamin B12
Energy Production: Vitamin B12 is crucial in helping the body produce energy. It's part of the citric acid cycle, a process that generates energy, which in turn helps reduce feelings of tiredness and exhaustion.

Mental Health: It supports mental functions by being involved in producing serotonin, a chemical in the brain that affects our mood and happiness. 

Also, some of the methionine made from Vitamin B12 is used to produce S-adenosylmethionine (SAM). SAM plays a part in creating hormones and neurotransmitters (chemical messengers) that influence our mood. It's also vital for cell growth, repair, and division.

Nervous System Support: Vitamin B12 is essential for the nervous system. It maintains the myelin sheath, a protective layer around the nerves, ensuring nerves communicate quickly and efficiently. This helps in protecting nerve cells and supporting fast nerve signal transmission.

Immune System and Cell Formation: Vitamin B12 supports the immune system by being involved in making nucleic acids and proteins, critical components of our cells. Vitamin B12 is also crucial for creating red blood cells in the bone marrow, supporting overall health by ensuring our body has the oxygen it needs.

Good sources of B12 in the diet

• Vitamin B12 is found almost exclusively in animal products:
• Liver
• Meat
• Fish/eggs/seafood
• Eggs
• Dairy products
• Cheese

Plants do not contain vitamin B12. Therefore, vegetarians and vegans should pay careful attention to getting enough B12. Older people and those with low stomach acid should also ensure they get enough B12.
 

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has evaluated the evidence behind vitamin B12 and has acknowledged the following claims:

• Supports normal functioning of the immune system
• Supports normal functioning of the nervous system
• Has a role in the process of cell division
• Contributes to normal red blood cell formation
• Contributes to normal psychological functioning
• Contributes to normal homocysteine metabolism
• Contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism
• Contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue