I don’t know about you, but sometimes reading scientific articles can feel like decoding a foreign language! Shaklee’s scientists are brilliant, but their passion for precision and detail means I sometimes need a simple summary to get the main points. So here’s my take on The Power of Vitamin B12: A Vital Nutrient for Health and Energy, with a big shout-out to the Shaklee team for their deep dive into the science of B12! Read the full article here.

So, What’s Vitamin B12 All About?

• The Essentials: Vitamin B12 is crucial. It’s involved in making red blood cells, keeping our nerves functioning smoothly, helping our cells make DNA, and – maybe the part we all care most about – keeping our energy levels up. Low B12 can leave you feeling tired and sluggish, as it’s essential for converting food into energy our cells can use.
• Who’s at Risk? As we age, we’re more likely to experience B12 deficiency without even knowing it. About 15% of folks over 60 in the U.S. could have undiagnosed B12 deficiency. This could be one reason why so many people in this age group feel more fatigued.
• Types of B12:
  • Cyanocobalamin is the form most common in supplements (and in Shaklee’s, too!). It’s stable and FDA-approved to treat B12 deficiency.
  • Methylcobalamin is another form that the body can use, but it’s less stable in supplement form.
• Safety of Cyanocobalamin: While cyanocobalamin contains a tiny amount of cyanide, it’s far less than what we naturally get from foods like almonds or flaxseeds. Plus, any trace cyanide from cyanocobalamin is safely flushed out by the body.
• Is One Type Better? Shaklee’s research shows that both cyanocobalamin and methylcobalamin help prevent B12 deficiency. In fact, cyanocobalamin may be even more effective at boosting B12 levels. Both types are good at helping with nerve issues related to diabetes and supporting overall nerve health.
• Why Cyanocobalamin is Used More Often: Because it’s stable and easy to work with in supplements. Once you take it, your body converts it into the active forms it needs, so no matter the type, you’ll still be absorbing that B12 goodness.

Both types of B12 have health benefits, but cyanocobalamin is stable, effective, and widely trusted, so it’s the go-to for many supplements. Vitamin B12 is one nutrient you definitely want in your corner for long-term health!

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Hope this sheds a little light on the science of Vitamin B12. And if you’re a science fan, dive into the full Shaklee article here! Shout-out to our Shaklee scientists for doing the deep work so we can make the most of what we take.

A few suggestions that contain Vitamin B12: