Please note: The content of this post is my own unless the technical terms are too hard to explain, then the content is copied and pasted. I am not a medical professional and thus the post is my point of view. But the content is science-based and credible. Just because it is a new science, does not necessarily make it quackery.
Found this really cool picture on livewello.com that explains what the Methylation Cycle does:
Vitamin B12
The bridge between the Folate cycle and the Methylation cycle that produces Methionine, the enzymes are regulated by MTR and MTRR genes. (amendment suggested by Dr Louise Lindenberg).
Also called cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that has a key role in the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system via the synthesis of myelin. It also helps create red blood cells. It is needed in the metabolism of every cell in the body, and it plays a part in the synthesis of fatty acids and energy production. By helping the human body to absorb folic acid, it facilitates the release of energy.
Symptoms of B12 deficiency:
- Atrophic gastritis, in which your stomach lining has thinned
- Pernicious anaemia is caused by vitamin B12 malabsorption (amendment suggested by Dr Louise Lindenberg).
- Conditions that affect your small intestine, such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, bacterial growth, or a parasite
- Immune system disorders, such as Graves’ disease or lupus
- Weakness, tiredness, or lightheadedness
- Heart palpitations and shortness of breath
- Pale skin
- A smooth tongue
- Constipation, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, or gas
- Nerve problems like numbness or tingling, muscle weakness, and problems walking
- Vision loss
- Mental problems like depression, memory loss, or behavioural changes
However, because people with the MTHFR gene mutation would have problems breaking down cobalamin, the most common B12 supplement is cyanocobalamine, but Methyl B12 is the prescription/therapeutic product. (amendment suggested by Dr Louise Lindenberg). Methylcobalamin creates two major effects in the brain:
- The compound eliminates excessive levels of homocysteine in the brain. This substance is often cited as the leading cause of vascular degeneration in the brain.
- Methylcobalamin improves the health and function of nerves in the brain. It can rebuild damaged nerves and contributes to the maintenance of function that is normally decayed during the ageing process.
Foods rich in B12
