Why Methylcobalamin? (Vitamin B12)

People often ask which is better – the naturally occurring Methylcobalamin or the synthetic Cyanocobalamin? It's a good question. Many may claim that "the jury is still out" because the body does indeed absorb Cyanocobalamin very well.

However, at HCF®, there is no doubt who the winner is. Methylcobalamin is not just better absorbed but is also retained better and for longer than other types of B12 vitamins.*

Moreover, Cyanocobalamin contains tiny amounts of cyanide.¹

Cyanocobalamin is created by attaching a cyanide molecule to the cobalamin structure. This process makes the compound easier to manufacture, which is why Cyanocobalamin is commonly used in many nootropics and even fortified foods.*

So, which would you rather put in your body?

The cyanide molecule is released when the body metabolizes Cyanocobalamin. And, while some may argue that the released amount is small and does not pose a concern, at HCF® we are committed to avoiding anything potentially harmful in our advanced nootropics.*

Methylcobalamin—the most bioavailable form of Vitamin B12—is more easily absorbed and retained in the body than Cyanocobalamin.^2,3 Translation? It stays in the system longer and at higher concentrations for a more consistent supply of this essential nutrient.*

And there's another reason we opted for Methylcobalamin. A more easily absorbed and retained nutrient can work better with our time, immediate, or sustained release nootropics.*

Finally, unlike most nootropics that solely focus on cognitive health, our advanced nootropics take a more comprehensive approach. Our advanced products are designed to nourish all three Intelligence Centers (Mental-Head, Emotional-Heart, and Physical-Gut). And Methylcobalamin is one of those neuro-nutrients which can significantly benefit all three brains:*

Head [1st Brain, Logic & Intellect].

Methylcobalamin may support cognitive function and neurological health^4,5. It plays a crucial role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters (which are essential for communication between nerve cells). Adequate levels of Methylcobalamin may help improve memory, concentration, and overall mental clarity. It also aids in maintaining myelin (the protective sheath around nerves, important for efficient neural transmission).*⁶

Heart [2nd Brain, Emotions & Feelings].

Vitamin B12—especially in its methylated form—may support cardiovascular health. Methylcobalamin helps reduce Homocysteine levels in the blood, a compound often linked to an increased risk of cardiovascular health challenges.⁷ Additionally, Vitamin B12 may support the production of red blood cells (needed for oxygen transport throughout the body).*⁸

Gut [3rd Brain, Instinct & Intuition].

Methylcobalamin also benefits the digestive system. It supports the health of the gut lining and aids in the proper digestion and absorption of nutrients.⁹ Methylcobalamin is involved in producing digestive enzymes, which help break down food more effectively.¹⁰ A healthy gut contributes to overall well-being and plays a role in the communication between the gut and the brain—the gut-brain axis.*

Superior absorption when paired with other nutrients.*

However, it's not just the question of how long it lasts. It's also about how efficient the form really is. Compared to its counterpart, Methylcobalamin is a form of Vitamin B12 that doesn't require conversion in the liver.*¹¹

Methylcobalamin also works well with others. It's absorbed better when paired with nutrients like Folate and Vitamin B6. It's a team player, enhancing the overall nutrient absorption process.*

For instance, one comprehensive analysis comparing the two B12 forms reported that about three times as much Cyanocobalamin was passed through urine. This finding may suggest that Methylcobalamin is better retained and used by your body.*¹²

The MTHFR mutation (affecting approximately 30% of the population worldwide) is another area where Methylcobalamin shines.

People with the MTHFR mutation often struggle to convert conventional forms of Vitamin B12 and Folate into their active, usable forms.*

Methylcobalamin bypasses this conversion process, ensuring that individuals with this mutation receive the necessary Vitamin B12 directly.*

Did you know?

Methylcobalamin can also help your body produce Glutathione (one of the most important antioxidants).¹³ Glutathione plays a key role in detoxifying harmful substances, protecting cells from oxidative stress, and maintaining the immune system. For individuals with the MTHFR mutation, efficient Glutathione production is particularly important because their bodies are often more susceptible to oxidative stress and have a reduced capacity to detoxify.*¹⁴

In fact, Methylcobalamin has been extensively studied in the context of the MTHFR gene mutation.

Ongoing research shows that Methylcobalamin acts as a cofactor for converting Homocysteine to Methionine, a process required for methylation and synthesis of S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe).*¹³

Are you sure you're getting enough B12?

When it comes to some of the best Vitamin B12 sources, a well-balanced diet is the absolute winner. Some foods are absolutely packed with it! You can boost your B12 levels with fish, shellfish, red meat, dairy, poultry (chicken and turkey), and eggs. Dairy products, too!

For all the vegans and vegetarians out there, some decent sources of B12 include fortified non-dairy milk (such as soy milk or oat milk), tempeh (a fermented soybean cake), and nori (dried sheets of seaweed typically used to make sushi).

Sometimes, even with a healthy diet, you may still come up a bit short.*

That's where HCF® advanced nootropics can come in. Our products can help fill the gap left by dietary restrictions, absorption issues, or just the general struggle of getting enough nutrients in a busy world.