Cyanocobalamin

Cyanocobalamin has lower bioavailability than the natural form methylcobalamin. Methylcobalamin is the natural, bioavailable form of B12, best sourced from red meat and liver. Energy drinks often deliver cyanocobalamin at 8,000 to 14,000% of daily B12 requirements. Cyanocobalamin contains a cyanide molecule bonded to its cobalamin structure. Cyanocobalamin requires conversion in the body before becoming active, involving shedding cyanide and gaining a methyl group. Converting cyanocobalamin to its active form requires glutathione, so high intake depletes this key antioxidant. The article recommends avoiding cyanocobalamin in all supplemental forms including multivitamins, energy drinks, fortified foods, and injections. Cyanocobalamin is poorly suited for people with MTHFR mutations, who cannot efficiently convert it to an active form. Cyanocobalamin contains a small amount of cyanide, derived from its cyano molecular group. Cyanocobalamin is a synthetic form of vitamin B12 and is by far the cheapest to manufacture. Cyanocobalamin is ubiquitous in fortified grains, synthetic multivitamins, infant formulas, energy drinks, and B12 injection preparations.