Cyanocobalamin – a key form of vitamin B12 for health and energy

What cyanocobalamin is

Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic form of vitamin B12 – one of the most important B-group vitamins, essential for the proper functioning of the nervous, blood-forming and metabolic systems. Although it occurs naturally in products of animal origin, the chemical form used in supplements and medicinal preparations is precisely cyanocobalamin. After being absorbed, this compound is converted in the body into the biologically active forms – methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin – which take part in numerous enzymatic reactions.

The biological role of vitamin B12

Cyanocobalamin takes part in the synthesis of DNA and proteins and in the transformation of fatty acids and amino acids. A key function of vitamin B12 is its participation in the formation of red blood cells, which is why its deficiency leads to megaloblastic anaemia. It also supports the proper action of the nervous system, takes part in the production of the myelin sheaths that protect nerve fibres and improves cognitive functions. This vitamin also affects the metabolism of homocysteine, an excess of which increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Sources of cyanocobalamin

The natural sources of vitamin B12 are products of animal origin – meat, fish, eggs, milk and dairy products. In plants this vitamin does not occur in an active form, which is why vegans and vegetarians belong to the groups at particular risk of deficiency. For them the basic source of vitamin B12 is dietary supplements or fortified products, such as breakfast cereals or plant-based drinks enriched with cyanocobalamin.

Absorption and bioavailability

Cyanocobalamin is a well absorbed form of vitamin B12, especially in oral supplements and injectable preparations. In order for it to be absorbed, a protein called intrinsic factor, produced in the stomach, is essential. In people with disorders of its secretion, e.g. in Addison-Biermer disease, it is necessary to administer the vitamin by injection or in a sublingual form that bypasses the digestive system.

Symptoms of vitamin B12 deficiency

A deficiency of cyanocobalamin manifests itself in chronic fatigue, weakness, pallor of the skin, dizziness and disturbances of concentration. In some people numbness of the limbs, balance disorders, problems with memory and lowered mood occur. A long-lasting deficit may lead to irreversible damage to the nervous system. Vitamin B12 deficiency more often affects older people, patients with absorption disorders, as well as vegans and people after bariatric surgery.

Requirement and dosage

The daily requirement for vitamin B12 in adults amounts to about 2,4 µg. Pregnant and breastfeeding women need somewhat more – 2,6–2,8 µg. In the case of a diagnosed deficiency or of an increased requirement, higher supplementation doses are used – from 100 µg to 1000 µg per day depending on the state of health and on the form of the preparation. Cyanocobalamin is well tolerated, and its excess is excreted with the urine.

Cyanocobalamin and the nervous system

One of the most important tasks of cyanocobalamin is the protection of the nervous system. This vitamin takes part in the formation of myelin, the substance that insulates nerve fibres and makes the proper conduction of impulses possible. Its deficiency leads to neurological disorders, problems with memory, irritability and depression. Regular B12 supplementation may support cognitive functions, improve mood and prevent neurodegenerative processes.

Cyanocobalamin and the blood-forming system

Vitamin B12 is essential for the proper production of red blood cells in the bone marrow. A deficiency causes the ineffective formation of erythrocytes and leads to megaloblastic anaemia. The symptoms are weakness, breathlessness, rapid tiring and pallor of the skin. An appropriate replenishment of vitamin B12, especially in the form of cyanocobalamin, makes it possible to effectively restore a normal blood count and to improve the oxygenation of the body.

Cyanocobalamin and energy metabolism

Vitamin B12 takes part in energy transformations, facilitates the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose and supports the use of energy by cells. That is why it is often used in supplements for people who are physically and mentally active. Maintaining an appropriate level of vitamin B12 promotes better well-being, reduces the feeling of fatigue and supports the capacity of the body.

Supplementation and DWATRO Laboratories

The DWATRO Laboratories brand offers innovative supplements containing cyanocobalamin in liposomal technology, which ensures an exceptionally high bioavailability. Thanks to this, vitamin B12 is absorbed more effectively and acts for longer. DWATRO Laboratories preparations often combine cyanocobalamin with folic acid, vitamin B6 and magnesium, which makes it possible to support the nervous, blood-forming and energy systems comprehensively. The liposomal form of administration enables the effective penetration of the vitamin into cells, which is of particular importance for people with absorption disorders.

Importance for vegans and older people

Cyanocobalamin is of particular importance for people who do not consume products of animal origin. In vegans and vegetarians, supplementation with vitamin B12 is essential in order to avoid serious health consequences. In older people, too, the absorption of vitamin B12 from food decreases, which is why supplementation becomes an important element of health prevention.

Summary

Cyanocobalamin is a stable and effective form of vitamin B12, essential for the health of the blood, the nervous system and proper metabolism. Its deficiency may lead to anaemia, weakness, problems with concentration and neurological disorders. The regular use of supplements, especially the modern preparations of DWATRO Laboratories, makes it possible to maintain a proper level of vitamin B12 and supports the general vitality of the body. Cyanocobalamin is a key ingredient for everyone who wants to retain energy, intellectual fitness and health for many years.

My name is Dorota Wątróbska-Świetlikowska, I am a pharmacist and a scientist holding the degree of habilitated doctor of pharmaceutical sciences. I decided to combine my scientific knowledge and my experience in order to create dietary supplements of the highest quality.

My passion and main area of research are submicron dispersion systems, such as submicron emulsions, liposomes and lipospheres. After obtaining my doctorate, I turned my attention to the practical aspects of parenteral nutrition, combining the needs of the patient with the possibilities of the pharmacist. What matters most to me is quality, safety and effectiveness, which is visible both in my scientific work and in my approach to creating Dwatro Laboratories® supplements.