Why Your B12 Should Be Methylated

kayla-maurais-EZWTMjwAWls-unsplash.jpg

Shawna Kunselman, MS, CNS, LDN

Methylcobalamin (Methyl) B12 is an active form of B12 that supports metabolism and is needed for almost every cell in our body. It is critical for the function of the nervous system, gastrointestinal system and several biochemical pathways.

Methyl B12 also works as a cofactor, or coenzyme, and is needed to activate the methionine/homocysteine biochemical pathway.

Methyl B12 is also responsible for the formation of S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), the universal methyl donor from homocysteine. Too much homocysteine in the blood has been shown to have an impact on many inflammatory conditions such autism, heart disease and Alzheimer’s.

This formation of SAMe is also critical for the formation of glutathione which is the body’s primary antioxidant and is responsible for many detoxification reactions including the removal of heavy metals and other toxins from our body.

So to sum it up, if this biochemical pathway is dysfunctional, detoxification becomes impaired. Toxins build up and wreak havoc on the neurological functioning of children.

Additionally, if the gastrointestinal system is not properly functioning, it is very hard for the body to break down and absorb B12 properly. For this reason, sublingual B12 or B12 injections may be more effective.

Methyl B12 is water soluble, meaning your body will dispose of excess B12 through urine.

While Methyl B12 has been shown to be very effective, it should be used in addition to other protocols such as dietary factors and additional vitamin supplementation.

Clinical trials have shown Methyl B12 supplementation to be effective in improving many autism symptoms including improvements in speech and language, socialization and improved sleep. B12 injections seem to be more effective than other forms of B12, however, sublingual is the next best form. 50 mcg of Methyl B12 is a good dose to start with for children on the autism spectrum.

 

References:

Zhang, Y., et.al, Decreased Brain Levels of Vitamin B12 in Aging, Autism and Schizophrenia., PLoS One. 2016 Jan 22;11(1):e0146797, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26799654
Hendren, RL, et.al., Randomized, Placebo-Controlled Trial of Methyl B12 for Children with Autism., J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol. 2016 Nov;26(9):774-783 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26889605
Autism Doctor, B12 for treatment of Autism, http://www.theautismdoctor.com/vitamin-b12-for-the-treatment-of-autism/

Wellness Speaks