What is Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B)?
Methylcobalamin is an active form of vitamin B12 that plays crucial roles in various biological processes.
Vitamin B is one of the 13 vitamins, which are essential nutrients that play a role in cellular metabolism. Vitamin B is also known as cobalamin. It is necessary for metabolism of acids, including fatty acids, amino acids, and nucleic acids. The molecule acts as a co-factor in one-carbon transfer reactions. These are important reactions in metabolism, which facilitate transfer of functional groups between molecules, therefore altering their properties [1].
Methylcobalamin is one of the two coenzyme forms of vitamin B12. It is the active form of B12, and it is necessary for maintenance of the cells of the nervous system. Methylcobalamin has some metabolic and therapeutic applications not shared by other forms of Vitamin B12 - in a clinical trial, patients receiving methylcobalamin showed better neurological outcomes compared to other forms of B12 [2, 3].
On a molecular level, methylcobalamin is a coenzyme for the enzymes methionine synthase and mitochondrial methylmalonyl-CoA mutase. These enzymes are crucial for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine (these are amino acids) and the conversion of methylmalonyl-CoA to succinyl-CoA, respectively. These reactions are essential for DNA synthesis, methylation, and mitochondrial functionality [4, 5] - these are processes essential to maintain necessary biological functions.
Additionally, there is mounting evidence supporting the use methylcobalamin therapeutically, especially in regenerative medicine. In a rat nerve injury model, continuous administration of high doses of methylcobalamin improved nerve regeneration and functional recovery [6, 7].
Benefits and Risks of Methylcobalamin Intake
There are multiple benefits reported following methylcobalamin intake. These can include maintenance of the nervous system and promoting nerve regeneration and growth [6, 7], and potential anti-cancer effects [8].
In terms of negative effects, excess intake has been observed to reduce the diversity of the gut microbiome and increase increased the amount of short-chain fatty acids, particularly butyrate and propionic acid [9].
The adverse effects of methylcobalamin may be countered by a natural mechanism of detoxification in the body. All B-vitamins, including B12 (methylcobalamin), are water-soluble, meaning excess does not accumulate in the body and is excreted in urine. Therefore, it is unlikely to get too much vitamin B12 from diet or supplementation [10].
Energy drinks with methylcobalamin: beneficial or not?
Energy drinks are popular for their benefits in boosting energy, physical performance and cognitive function. Vitamin B12, specifically in the methylcobalamin form, is one of the ingredients found in some energy drinks.
The body uses vitamin B12 to convert carbohydrates into glucose, which is an energy source. Therefore, supplementation with methylcobalamin via energy drinks can boost this process, resulting in more energy [11]. This usually combines with the caffeine in the energy drinks.
Additionally, methylcobalamin is involved in synthesis of neurotransmitters, which are molecules that facilitate transfer of signals in the nervous system, including the brain. This may result in improvement of cognitive function such as focus [11].
Risks of energy drinks with methylcobalamin
Despite the apparent benefits of vitamin B12 (methylcobalamin) supplementation, energy drinks, including those containing methylcobalamin.
Energy drinks contain high levels of caffeine and sugar, which can lead to other health issues such as heart palpitations, insomnia, and obesity. They may also contain other ingredients like taurine and guarana, which can lead to caffeine toxicity when combined with caffeine and taken at large doses [12]. Furthermore, the practice of mixing energy drinks with alcohol is associated with increased risk-taking behaviors, impaired driving, and increased risk of alcohol dependence [13].
As for methylcobalamin, one study describes a patient with serum vitamin B12 level increased up to 36-fold higher than the normal range after consuming an energy drink daily for nine months [14].
Therefore, excessive consumption of energy drink with methylcobalamin can lead to B12 hypervitaminosis, ultimately leading to severe gastrointestinal issues.
Ultimately, it is important to consume energy drinks in moderation, and do not combine them with alcohol.