Methylcobalamin versus Cyanocobalamin: Natural versus Synthetic
Vitamin B12 supplements can be derived from two main sources: cyanocobalamin or methylcobalamin. Both forms are almost identical. They basically contain a cobalt iron encompassed by a corrin ring. Nevertheless, the attached molecules are not the same. Cyanocobalamin is surrounded by a cyanide molecule, while methylcobalamin is surrounded by a methyl group.
Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic form. It is often considered more cost-effective and stable than other forms of vitamin B12. When cyanocobalamin penetrates the body, it can be converted into either adenosylcobalamin or methylcobalamin, the two active types of vitamin B12. On the other hand, methylcobalamin is naturally occurring that can be found in many food sources, such as milk, eggs, meat, and fish. [2]
