Vitamin B12 plays a large role as a cofactor in enzymes involved in the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, and is required to produce succinyl CoA, an intermediary in the Kreb's cycle that generates cellular energy in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Due to its role in the production of ATP, vitamin B12 deficiency is often characterized by fatigue and weakness. Supplementation with methylcobalamin and 5-MTHF has been shown to promote increased energy levels.
Peripheral Circulation and Nerve Cell Health
In a double-blind study, oral administration of methylcobalamin (500 mcg three times daily for four months) showed a significant improvement in neuromuscular health. The subjects in the control group reported improvement in muscle aches, fatigue, sensitivity to pain, circulation, muscle cramps and reflexes.
Cardiovascular Health and Homocysteine Balance
Homocysteine is a molecule which is synthesized in the body from the amino acid methionine. Maintaining healthy homocysteine balance is crucial for supporting arterial and cardiovascular health. Both 5-MTHF and methylcobalamin are required to maintain optimal homocysteine balance. 5-MTHF acts as a methyl donor, providing a methyl group to vitamin B12. The methylated form of B12 (methylcobalamin) then transfers the methyl group to homocysteine, resulting in consistent recycling of homocysteine to methionine.
Mental and Cognitive Health
B12 has been shown to be beneficial for maintaining a positive mental outlook because it acts as a methyl donor and increases the synthesis of s-adenosylmethionine (SAM-e), a nutrient that has powerful mood and sleep-cycle regulating properties. Due to B12’s ability to increase the production of neurotransmitters and nerve cell transmission, B12 has been shown to improve cognitive function. 5-MTHF plays a significant role in mood regulation as it is required as a methyl group donor for the production of neurotransmitters such as serotonin.
Sleep Cycle Regulation
Methylcobalamin and 5-MTHF are both required nutrients for the biosynthesis of melatonin, the hormone that helps induce sleep. Within the central nervous system, the neurotransmitter serotonin is converted into melatonin in a pathway that requires the donation of a methyl group.
