What is Vitamin B12?
B12 is not actually a vitamin. It is produced by certain bacteria and archaea found in soil, not by plants or animals. When grazing animals like cows, sheep, and goats eat grass, they ingest soil particles containing these bacteria. The bacteria produce B12, which is absorbed into the animals’ digestive systems and stored in their tissues, making animal products a primary source of B12.
It is also known as cobalamin, a water-soluble vitamin essential for nerve function, DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and energy production. It plays a key role in maintaining brain health and preventing megaloblastic anemia. It was discovered in 1926 as the cure for pernicious anemia when researchers isolated a substance from liver extracts. The term “cobalamin” derives from “cobalt,” the metal ion at the core of its molecular structure.
Most B12 for humans is through the eating of animals since the animals get it from the soil and earth. For plant-based people, I always recommend supplementation for sources with these three types of cobalamin.
3 Main Types of Vitamin B12
- Methylcobalamin – The most bioactive and natural form. It supports brain health, nerve function, and detoxification.
- Adenosylcobalamin – Another active form found in mitochondria. It is involved in energy production and fatty acid metabolism.
- Hydroxocobalamin – A natural form produced by bacteria. It is used in injectable form to treat B12 deficiency and detoxify cyanide in the body.
Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic form used in most supplements. It must be converted by the body into active forms (methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin). I do not recommend this one.
*I recommend this one from globalhealing.com/joe that has the three important types of cobalamin. It is a sublingual tincture. Taking this orally by capsule or tablet and swallowed loses about 95% effectiveness so, whatever you get, make sure it is sublingual.
In new research published in the journal Discover Food, Dr. Asaf Tzachor, Founder and Academic Director of the Aviram Sustainability and Climate Program at Reichman University, along with a team of researchers from Iceland, Denmark and Austria, report the use of state-of-the-art biotechnology to cultivate photosynthetically-controlled Spirulina, and produce carbon–neutral and nutritious biomass containing unopposed, biologically active vitamin B12, in levels comparable to beef meat. This is the first time biologically active vitamin B12 has been reported in Spirulina.
Vitamin B12 Benefits
5 Key Benefits of Vitamin B12
- Red Blood Cell Formation and Anemia Prevention – Prevents megaloblastic anemia, which causes fatigue and weakness.
- Brain and Nerve Health – Maintains the myelin sheath that protects nerves, preventing neurological disorders.
- DNA Synthesis and Cell Division – Supports proper DNA replication, crucial for growth and development.
- Energy Boost and Metabolism Support – Converts fats and proteins into usable energy, reducing fatigue.
- Heart Health and Homocysteine Reduction – Lowers homocysteine levels, reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.
5 Unusual, Not-Well-Known Benefits of Vitamin B12
- Protects Against Hearing Loss – B12 helps maintain auditory nerve health and may prevent age-related hearing loss.
- Prevents Macular Degeneration – B12 reduces oxidative stress in the eyes, lowering the risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD).
- Enhances Bone Density – Adequate B12 levels are linked to better bone mineral density, reducing osteoporosis risk.
- Improves Sleep Quality – B12 regulates melatonin production, contributing to improved sleep patterns.
- Reduces Depression and Mood Disorders – B12 is involved in serotonin production, which influences mood and emotional balance.
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