Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin that is used by the body to maintain nerve cells and red blood cells. It is also used by the body to make DNA and other genetic material. The deficiency of this vitamin though rare may cause nerve related pains in the abdomen as well as other portions of the body. The deficiency of this vitamin can be made up by using food supplements, but a physician should be consulted before taking any supplements.
Cyanocobalamin
Cyanocobalamin is the most common form of B12 found in supplements. This version of the B12 vitamin is not found in nature and is created in laboratories to be used in supplements. This product is easily broken down and easily absorbed by your digestive system.
Sublingual
Sublingual B12 supplements are the fastest absorbing type of supplements. They get absorbed directly into your bloodstream in large quantities. This is due to the fact that it does not pass through your digestive system and is not broken down by the digestive tract.
cobamamide
Cobamamide is an alternative form of vitamin B12 that is found in supplements. It is not as easily absorbed by the digestive tract Cyanocobalamin thus is less common in supplements. The experts at World's Healthiest Foods recommend Cyanocobalamin containing supplements over Cobamamide containing ones.
References
- "Biochemistry" ; Mikayel Agajanov; 1999
- Mayo Clinic: Health : Vitamin B12
- Worlds Healthiest Foods : Vitamin B12
- Office of Dietary Supplements : Vitamin B12 Fact Sheet
Member Comments