Can Vitamin B12 Be TOXIC?
Cyanocobalamin, Methylcobalamin, vitamin B12 41 Comments
Can Vitamin B12 Be TOXIC?
Typically, there are two major forms of Vitamin B12:
- Cyanocobalamin
- Methylcobalamin
Cyanocobalamin is the most common form of Vitamin B12. This is the form that is usually in multivitamins and B-complexes and is thought to be nearly the best form of Vitamin B12.
However, cyanocobalamin is also thought to be the less-then-optimal form of Vitamin B12.
This is because cyanocobalamin is a synthetic form of Vitamin B12, which does not occur in normally in nature, as it can’t be synthesized by humans or by other animals. It must first be converted to a usable form of Vitamin B12 which is methylcobalamin, and then into adenosylcobalamin.
It is these latter forms that our body can use.
Some B12 Vitamins contain Cyanide
So, since the body can break down cyanocobalamin, what’s the big deal?
The big deal is in order for the conversion to take place, the cyanide bond must be released.
Of course, cyanide is toxic.
Now if you read about Vitamin B17 (laetrile), you’ll find that cyanide is the basis of banning that particular “vitamin”, despite the fact that we eat cyanide-containing foods everyday such as broccoli and cauliflower.
This synthetic form of Vitamin B12 has had the cyanide essentially added as a by-product of charcoal filtering. The FDA has deemed the cyanide by-product as “insignificant.”
So apparently, according to the FDA, some cyanide is fine for human ingestion. Well, many of you who know me, know that I don’t buy into anything the FDA says; I did a bit of investigating of my own.
Let’s see: Cyanide in foods and in Vitamin B12 are okay, while cyanide in Vitamin B17 is not okay. Why this double standard and is there a difference?
There is a big difference! And it is all about the bonding.
It is well known that cobalamin has a high affinity to cyanide and bonds with it. In fact, a means of counteracting cyanide poisoning is with the use of hydroxocobalamin. However, cobalamin in case of Vitamin B12, cannot bind to the cyanide molecule because it is already bound.
Though the amounts of cyanide are small, and thought to be “harmless”, when this is added to the already smalls amounts we are exposed to everyday via road salt, automobile exhausts, and even in table salt (used as a stabilizer), adding more cyanide to already elevated levels can potentially be harmful. This is not the case regarding cyanide-containing foods.
Sadly the FDA is banning the wrong substance!
There is an option, to take Vitamin B12 in the form of methylcobalamin, the active form of Vitamin B12, instead.
Methylcobalamin is an active form of cyanocobalamin. It is this form that is necessary for the synthesis of the amino acid, methionine; from homocysteine. Methionine is important for the DNA methylation; essential for normal human development as well as development or inhibition of carcinogenesis (prevention of cancer.)
Interestingly, Proper functioning DNA methylation is being linked with longevity.
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is a board-certified Chiropractic Physician and Life Coach who also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Biology, and a minor in Medical Research. She is a life-long athlete who after curing herself 100% naturally from MS and anxiety, became an avid nutrition health researcher/promoter.
She has been featured in many Health magazines and has been a guest on radio talk shows in the USA, Canada, United Kingdom, and Australia. She is the author of Health Freedom Revolution: Exposing the Lies, Deceit and Greed of the Medical Profession, Founder of Online Holistic Health, and a contributing writer for other popular informative health website/blogs.
She is the host of Holistic Health Radio – where she discusses how she recovered her health as well as other hot health topics, and she is also co-founder of Crazy Meets Common Sense! – The Podcast that Makes Sense Out of the Crazy, to Help You Live a More Healthy, Fulfilling and Empowering Life!
May 18, 2015 @ 20:08:21
I bought some methylcobalamin B12, but the dosage of the tablets is 5,000 mcg. I was only taking 1000 mcg a day…is the 5,000 mcg a day safe???
thanks, Carol
May 19, 2015 @ 13:32:00
Hi Carol! 5000 mcg is a safe dosage and is one that I take regularly. Are they sublingual? If you have more questions or concerns…please mail me at drmichelle@onlineholistichealth.com
Apr 05, 2016 @ 17:49:34
Thank you! That is all.
Apr 07, 2016 @ 08:12:53
You are welcome! 🙂
Apr 27, 2016 @ 11:48:42
Dr. Kmiec, I have just been informed that I have a huge shortage of B-12 in my system, and never having taken of this vitamin I stopped at the Hy-Vee and purchased a bottle of Natures Bounty 2500 mcg. While reading the label I noticed the words (as Cyanocobalamin). Should I try returning them or go ahead and use this bottle?
Apr 27, 2016 @ 13:40:48
Hello Bernie, Though you would be fine with that bottle, if it is easy for you to exchange it for one that contains methylcobalamin, I would recommend it. Jarrow is an excellent brand.
May 19, 2016 @ 03:02:55
I have been taking 1000 mcg oral methyl B12 but it does not seem to be raising my levels. I really wanted to try weekly B12 shots to see if I could see some results. However all the pharmacies, doctors, anywhere I try only offer the B12 shots with cyano cobalamin. When I ask if they have the methyl B12 in shot form, they don’t even know what I’m talking about. I live in Chattanooga, TN. So should I just take the cyano B12 injection or no shot at all? Any idea where I might get the methyl B12?
May 19, 2016 @ 08:35:54
Hello Karen! This may help.. “It was once thought that only injections of Vitamin B12 were an effective means of absorption. But this prescription is slowly giving way to the idea of sublingual tablets. Research now shows that this form is as effective, much cheaper, and a more convenient way to supplement with Vitamin B12.” Read more at: https://www.onlineholistichealth.com/supplements-2/vitamins/vitamin-b12-cobalamin.html
You can easily get sublingual methylcobalamin in 1000mcg and 5000mcg. (https://www.onlineholistichealth.com/cyano-vs-methyl-cobalamin/)
Jun 12, 2016 @ 13:34:41
methylcobalamin cannot be used as a single source of B12 in the body. Let Wikipedia be your tutor…Hydroxocobalamin and cyanocobalamin can both be split by the body into methylcobalamin and adenosylcoblamin. Methylcobalamin on the other hand is not converted into adenosylcobalamin. Deficiency of adenosylcobalamin disturbs carbohydrate, fat and amino-acid metabolism, and hence interferes with the formation of myelin.[3] Thereby it is important to treat vitamin B12 deficiency with hydroxocobalamin or cyanocobalamin or a combination of adenosylcobalamin and methylcobalamin.
Jun 13, 2016 @ 08:23:41
Hello Bem!
Thanks for the tutelage from Wikipedia 😀 ! Though I ensure you that years of biochemistry along with many actual observations of the effect of methylcobalamin as it relates to B12 deficiency is proof enough for me. Thing is, 90% of people have way below optimal gastrointestinal function. This means no reaction of intrinsic factor which is needed for your body to absorb B12. (There are many other causes for B12 deficiency So for most, they require a sublingual form of the vitamin so as to by pass the digestive process. The superior form is the physiological form of B12 which is methylcobalamin, not cyanocobalamin.
Okay, since you enjoy Wikipedia I will accommodate by quoting them as well “A common synthetic form of the vitamin, cyanocobalamin, does not occur in nature, but is used in many pharmaceuticals and supplements, and as a food additive, because of its lower cost. In the body it is converted to the physiological forms, methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin, leaving behind the cyanide…”
Thanks again!!
Jun 22, 2016 @ 13:15:15
Hello Dr. Kmiec,
My 11 year old son has an elevated levels of B12 on repeated studies. (1000-1415). It is pretty uncommon and his pediatrician does not know what to do. We checked blood count, liver and kidney function – everything within the normal range. My son has behavioral problems and under physicians care for ASD and ADHD. He is doing pretty good in school, though. At the time of lab studies he was off medications.
Can you help with any information or advice? It will be greatly appreciated.
Sep 21, 2016 @ 03:49:07
Great Post! Love it!
Nov 17, 2016 @ 12:02:35
Hello Dr. Kmiec,
Isn’t there some similarity between the natural and artificial cobalamines, on one hand,
and, on the other hand, the natural types of b9 vitamin and folic acid?
Jan 17, 2017 @ 23:46:35
Vit 12B =. Hydroxcoalabin
Where can one purchase 12B injectable?
Jan 18, 2017 @ 17:47:29
Hello Howard,
Sublingual methylcobalamin has been proven to be 95% as effective as vitamin B12 injections.
Mar 08, 2017 @ 11:58:24
Cyanocobalamin is the recommended form of B12 as it’s stable. Methylcobalamin is unstable so you can not be sure are you getting B12.
Mar 08, 2017 @ 14:01:43
Hi Esko! Actually methylcobalamin is the active form and is best absorbed by the body.
Mar 09, 2017 @ 09:18:59
Sorry but you are giving bad information. Cyanocobalamin is stable form, this means you know the B12 you are getting is still good. Methylcobalamin is unstable.
There is no real need to worry about cyanocobalamin, but there is a real worry about are your methylcobalamin still ok and active when you use it.
Always choose Cyanocobalamin over Methylcobalamin! This is important, as you do not want risk B12 deficiency. There are plenty of studies that show Cyanocobalamin works well and is 100% safe.
“As of September 13, 2007 there were 19,813 scientific studies that investigated vitamin B-12 that were accessible
there. Of these only 665 investigated hydroxycobalamin. This is about 3 percent. 490 investigated
methylcobalamin. This is a little over 2 percent. 16,251 investigated cyanocobalamin. This is about 82 percent.
There are no reports of toxicity from cyanocobalamin, hydroxycobalamin or methycobalamin in the
19,813 studies that investigated vitamin B-12. Cyanocobalamin is, by a great margin – over 82 percent, the
most studied form of vitamin B12. ”
http://www.supernutritionusa.com/images/pdf/VitaminB12ComparisonSN.pdf
Cyanocobalamin is the most researched form of B12.
Mar 09, 2017 @ 10:29:25
Hi Esko! Nope I am sorry, but it is you who has inaccurate information.
“Vitamin B12 had been usually treated as sport nutrition, and used to keep old people from getting anemic in past years. Vitamin B12 was regarded as painkilling vitamin in some countries from 1950. Recently studies have shown that vitamin B12 played a key role in the normal functioning of the brain and nervous system and the formation of blood. Vitamin B12 is normally involved in several metabolisms such as DNA synthesis and regulation, fatty acid synthesis, and energy production. Vitamin B12 has some analogs including cyanocobalamin (CNCbl), methylcobalamin (MeCbl), hydroxocobalamin (OHCbl), and adenosylcobalamin (AdoCbl). In mammalian cells, CNCbl and OHCbl are inactive forms and AdoCbl acts as a coenzyme of methylmalonyl Co-A mutase in mitochondria. However, vitamin B12 was not used directly in human body, and it should be translated into activating forms such as MeCbl or AdoCbl. MeCbl differs from vitamin B12 in that the cyanide is replaced by a methyl group (Figure 1) [1]. It is a coenzyme of methionine synthase, which is required for the formation of methionine from homocysteine in the methylation cycle which involves methylation of DNA or proteins [2–5]. Compared with other analogs, MeCbl is the most effective one in being uptaken by subcellular organelles of neurons. Therefore, MeCbl may provide better treatments for nervous disorders through effective systemic or local delivery.” source
Thanks!
Mar 11, 2017 @ 15:22:32
Do you have information on the effect of B-12 methylizing mercury in the body? My doctor wants me to take high doses of B-12 (methycobalamin and hydroxocobalamin). I had mercury amalgam fillings removed years ago, and Dr. Huggins was adamant about not taking more than 30 mcg B-12 ever. Here is a quote from his website:
8. Why is vitamin B-12 as a supplement or additive dangerous?
Many Universities have published articles on the ability of Vitamin B-12 to convert mercury vapor into the much more deadly “Methyl mercury”. Methyl mercury knows no barriers, and creates far more havoc than other mercury chemicals, because of its ability to travel anywhere in the body without inhibitions. Sometimes the effects of high doses of Vitamin B-12 (over 50 micrograms) take months to correct.
Are there any studies directly about mercury and the different forms of B-12?
Mar 16, 2017 @ 13:13:06
I have pernicious anemia was diagnosed almost three years ago, the doctor at the time wanted me to self inject every month. I saw a different doctor who is affiliated with the one that diagnosed me as he left the area the new one said that I can’t have pernicious anemia because my b12 level is 1723. Does pernicious anemia go away?
Mar 22, 2017 @ 10:09:53
You again miss the point why cyanocobalamin is the preferred B12 source, yes your body does need to convert it and this is exactly why it’s the preferred source, as its stable.
When you purchase B12 in any other form, you can not be sure that it’s still good. How do you know how long it has been sitting on the shelf?
This is the reason why cyanocobalamin is the safest B12 on the market. As you can be 100% sure you are getting B12.
This is exactly what happened to me when i went vegan, got cold hands even though i was doing 1000 mcg of methylcobalamin. Switched to 1000 mcg of cyanocobalamin as recommended by Dr. Michael Greger, and it solved the problem.
Cyanocobalamin is the only source that is 100% guaranteed to work.
Mar 22, 2017 @ 12:11:59
Thanks for your comment Esko! Love the debate, but respectfully, no I have not missed the point. Let me say this as simply as I can. I give the body what it can best absorb naturally. And though it can absorb synthetic B12 (cyanocobalamin) does not make it the best or the safest to use. Furthermore, there is now far more research that confirms that the best form of B12 as a supplement is methylcobalamin.
I am trilled that cyanocobalamin worked for you! For me however, is was the exact opposite. It was only methylcobalamin that helped my body reverse the neurological symptoms of MS.
As always…I wish you the best health!!
Mar 30, 2017 @ 23:16:01
When I get a B-12 injection I come down with unbearable fatigue for a week or more.Why is this?
Apr 19, 2017 @ 19:15:11
Hi Dr. Kmiec. Thanks for the great article. I had a very negative effect after taking methylcobalamin for several days. I was very fatigued and physcially ill for literally a couple months. Any idea what may have caused this? Thanks for any insite
Apr 20, 2017 @ 11:34:26
Hello Dave, sorry to hear that you haven’t felt well. Honestly I seriously doubt that your illness is related to methylcobalamin or any form of vitamin B12. On the contrary, B12 should increase your energy. Perhaps what you were taking was tainted some how, and if so you should report this to the company you bought the vitamin from. Otherwise it sounds like a coincidence.
That said, If you continue to feel fatigue and physically ill, I highly suggest that you visit your trusted doctor (holistic or conventional) so as to determine why you aren’t feeling well.
Wish you all the best!
Apr 30, 2017 @ 06:47:11
I am very sorry, not meaning to stir up controversy, but the only type I can take and have positive effect is the cyanocobalamin. I have tried (and spent $100s maybe $1000s of dollars) all brands of methycobalamin and it made me have joint pain, headaches, heart palpitations, and generally feel horrible. The minute that I switched back to cyanocobalamin, I was fine; pain stopped, headaches stopped, heart palps stopped, and my mood stabilized and depression lifted. So while methyl may work for some, I am living proof that cyanocobalamin works for others and helps them in a positive way. And before someone says that the methyl was trying to detox me, I went through a complete detox protocol using vitamin C, NAC, quercetin, stinging nettle and bromelain and have had all fillings replaced. Even after all this, the methyl still made me worse, not better.
I am a registered nurse and have been for 22 years. I do research in journal approved articles (not wikipedia) and have found what works for me. I will say that I have not tried the hydroxy- nor adenosyl- forms of cobalamin, but after doing research and finding what works for me, I probably will not try those as they can cause the same effects as methylcobalamin. There are more and more people posting to the internet who are having problems with methylated B12. It may be due to toxicity, or it may be that like me they just have problems with methylated forms of vitamins. I take a very very low dose of cyanocobalamin (only 100mcg per day) and that seems to be enough for me to make me feel better and to keep pain down. Listen to your body when you take something. If you are worse, that something very well may not be the thing for you!
Apr 30, 2017 @ 07:50:57
Hello RB!
Thanks for your comment and never be sorry to debate or to “stir up controversy” as it is always welcome on this blog!
I’d like to make two comments in response to your post.
1. I couldn’t agree more that you must listen to your body whenever you are taking anything whether pharmaceuticals, supplements, etc… as all can have side effects.
2. I disagree that you suggest that methylcobalamin “may be toxic” (assuming of course the supplement was bought from a reputable company). Yes, there are far too many people who have methylation issues which can cause anything from allergies, mental health issues, diabetes, autoimmune and even cancer (and so many more). All of which are also directly related to chronic inflammation within the body. My question has always been…why is this occurring in the first place, so that can be fixed?
I believe that our society is constantly (and increasingly so) bombarded with artificial foods and synthetic chemicals with only synthetic pharmaceuticals as the so-called answer to the ever growing health issues. This is the major reason for the downward spiral of health for so many people today. Further, it is all too common for people to actually experience a “healing effect” when attempting to improve their health naturally…and then told by their trusted doctor to stop whatever they are doing instead of understanding what is happening. This happened to me.
That said, until the methylation issue is resolved it would make sense to take a form of B12 (hopefully sublingual) that works for you.
When I was first detoxing to regain my health from MS…my body was not reacting well to any nutrition as my body was that toxic. Nutrition is what I needed, but it was also hard for me take (what an oxymoron!). In the end, for me, methycobalamin was a crucial supplement that made a big difference in my health. And I am trilled that there are many people who experience that as well. Though, understanding that as you said, it may not be for everyone.
I always advocated that we are individuals with different body types and metabolism… and that there is never a one size fits all that is a “fix it” for everyone. Except for this: we are organic beings who require organic whole foods (whether vegan, paleo or anything in between) – Not laboratory made foods (GMOS), pesticide-ridden, artificial and chemical-laden processed foods, artificial sugars of all types, and on and on…
Thanks again for your comment and I am happy that health is improving! Wishing you all the best!
May 08, 2017 @ 02:51:31
When I was a teen I showed b12 deficient and was given a shot. I had stroke like symptoms and nuero symptoms for months after. Later I realized any time I ingested the Cyanocobalamin form of B12 I would get these symptoms in the length depending on how much ingested. By adulthood even the amount in a bowl of cereal or sport drink can cause severe neuro side affects. Oddly enough when I completely removed Cyanocobalamin from my diet my B12 defficiency never showed up again. I have been reading studies that show the Cyanocobalamin added to tons of our foods actually can cause b12 deficiency to show in blood tests causing a cycle of adding more and more Cyanocobalamin to ones body in an attempt to not show deficient. But others just avoiding it heal on their own and show no defficieny in the blood work.
I am able to tolerate natural b12 in foods just not added. Just curious if you have researched any of these findings. Since Cyanocobalamin is added to so many children’s foods even though the amount they are getting daily is way more than needed, it makes me wonder if a bigger problem is occurring since it’s added to so much. Will more and more show deficient earlier and earlier? It was your article many years ago that helped me explain just why I knew Cyanocobalamin made me sick. Thanks!
May 09, 2017 @ 05:58:42
Hello, I came across this link while looking up some information. Just thought I would put my two cents in here.
A few years ago, I got diagnosed with “severe b12 deficiency” after a bout of several things. I have fought migraines for most of my life, and I had gotten what I thought was a normal one, but it wasn’t. That one wound up going on for 45 days until I could finally get in to see a doctor, and steadily got worse day after day. Come to find out, it was a lot more than just a migraine. It was that, plus ear infections in both ears, ocular migraines, inability to sleep, agitated (due to all of the pain), loss of focus, vision issues, various neurological issues and according to the doc, basically having all of the nerves in my body all firing at the same time.
My level, when they found the issue, was at 203. They warned me that I was at a borderline state of being anemic (suggested pernicious), and basically experiencing all of the various symptoms of having it. They started instant daily injections of cyanocobalamin for a couple of weeks, then backed me off to once a week. After 2-3 months, my level was finally back up to around 780, then stopped the injections and wanted to see what happened. In less than 3 months, my level dropped to around 420 again. Had to start injections again on a weekly basis. That wound up being inconsistent, meaning, my levels still bounced all over the place, and I was moved up to two injections a week off and on over the last couple of years.
Not long after finding the original issue, they found countless other deficiencies start to happen. As the new doctor explained it, an almost domino type of effect. VitD, B2, Folic, Iron, etc, etc. They assumed it had to be some sort of absorption issue, but have been unable to track whatever it is as of this time. I was even checked for MTHFR, which I found out I do have 1 of the 2 genes for that. So, they said it was possible that some of what was happening could be somehow related, but they are still unsure. Needless to say, I have been to numerous doctors because of the issue trying to finally solve it. However, at this point, I know I pretty much have to continue to take b12 injections at least once a week for the rest of my life, at least until they can figure out whatever is going on.
The last doctor I was seeing had switched me to methyl compound, which worked much better for me and balanced out my levels better over extended periods of time. Of course, methyl was not covered by my insurance. But, I had to move recently, and the new doctor I am seeing put me back on cyan. At the time this new doctor took my blood to check levels, they said my b12 was at about 602, which they list as “normal”. For some, that may very well be “normal”, but for me, not so much.
I have learned a great deal since this all started, and my issues pale in comparison to many others out there. For me, at 600 or below, my migraines start to intensify a great deal, more moody and emotional, more sullen in many ways, more tired, more down, etc. Just in the short time I have been back on cyan injections, I already notice the difference from methyl (which I still take in pill form everyday on top of the injections). For me, it takes longer to feel the effects of a cyan injection internally than with a methyl injection. Methyl, I felt different almost immediately. Cyan, it usually takes about a day to really feel it kick in. Cyan also tends to “burn” a bit more for whatever reason. Methyl lasted a longer period for me. Cyan though, seems to fizzle out in my system in a matter of a couple of days. Due to that, I am injecting once every 4-5 days roughly at max. Yes, I know that means that I burn through my prescription faster, but until I can see the doctor again to explain what is happening, it is the workable solution.
My last doctor had done countless tests on me, and came to the conclusion that it was due to whatever my absorption issue was that was causing cyan to not break down properly in my system, meaning I would get less intake of it in my system because it would not convert properly. In turn, that caused my levels to constantly go up and down like they did. That is why she had wanted me to switch to methyl to begin with, and that seems to impact my system with much greater magnitude, and retained in my system for longer periods. The cyan seemed to disappear after a short time.
The biggest thing though, insurance (at least in my case) no longer even covers cyan, or ANY B12. That is disturbing to me. For whatever reason, they do not deem in “necessary”, and yes, I spoke with them at length about B12, my issues and the issues of countless other people. It is frustrating that insurance companies (at least mine) have chosen to ignore B12 as any type of needed medicine, even when cyan, which they did cover originally, doesn’t even work as well for me as methyl did. Regardless, I have to take it. And if that means I have to double up on pills instead of getting injections, fine. Whatever it takes.
A lack of B12, to me, is a major thing, and I think insurance companies need to wake up to it. Not only that, I know many doctors tend to not check patients b12 levels unless they feel some need to do so on average. I feel like that should be something mandated. Something like my issue had apparently been going on for years, yet no doctor ever caught it, because no one checked my b12 levels, until it was almost too late. That is a dangerous thing to have happening. Countless people could be fighting similar issues and just have no idea at all, and unless they meet the right doctor, they may not know until it feels like they are dying in so much pain. Now, I tell everyone I can to ask their doctor to check their B12, even if they don’t think anything is wrong, just so they know their number. For some people, a 600 b12 level may be just what they need. For others, like it, it may need to be higher. Most people seem to have a base level that pretty much remains, I am stuck with one that constantly fluctuates and tanks at weird times. Now, anytime I feel something like an ear infection coming on, and a migraine that won’t go away, I know my levels are too low.
Anyway, sorry for the long post, but there are my thoughts on it. Hope you are all doing well and staying healthy.
May 09, 2017 @ 14:18:15
Hello Dave! Thank you so much for sharing your inspirational story of perseverance! At the end of day, we have to take full responsibility for our health and that includes doing quite a bit of research… and you are certainly testament of that! Bravo! Wishing you all the best of health! 😀
May 18, 2017 @ 03:46:34
The lethal dose of Sodium Cyanide is hundreds of milligrams if taken orally. While slightly more than half of that is the Sodium ion, this still means that you need more than 100mg of the cyanide ion to be fatal. Additionally, since the human body is excellent at rapidly and completely rendering cyanide harmless, it must be all at once to cause serious harm. It is not an accumulative toxin.
Vitamin B12 is a nutrient that is taken in extremely low doses, usually micrograms, which are a thousandth of a milligram! Additionally Vitamin B12 is a very large molecule, so that a cyanide group attached to it would be a small fraction of the already minuscule quantity.
So I fully agree with those who say that the cyanide in cyanocobalamin is completely harmless if taken normally. Even a very high dose will have much less than one milligram of cyanide.
Michelle, is there anything I’ve said that you disagree with?
Also, why have you said “already elevated levels can potentially be harmful. This is not the case regarding cyanide-containing foods.”
What is it about cyanide containing foods that means that they do not contribute to cyanide levels? I agree that the cyanide in most common foods is insignificant, but I see no reason why the same should not apply to the cyanide in common iodised salt, or road salt or vehicle exhaust (although other components of exhaust are serious health concerns if you are exposed to too much traffic).
I just do not think that what you have said is backed up by the numbers, specifically the micrograms and milligrams, as well as the time it takes for the body to render small doses of cyanide safe (or in the case of cyanocobalamin, absolutely minuscule doses).
May 29, 2017 @ 00:41:42
Thank you for these posts on B 12. I gave been taking 5000 mcg of Cyan. B12 ( sustained release) almost daily for several years. My family members saw your posts, and asked me if my cyan. Form is safe to take. I certainly THINK MUCH better on my 5000 mcg. I can’t say for sure if I have untoward side effects, I had encephalitis A FEW YEARS AGO, and this dose has made a huge difference for me, in terms of recall, and being able to talk in depth with agility to retrieve lots of details I can then articulate. I’ll try the methyl form, TO SEE IF IT WORKS AS WELL. HOW CAN YOU KNOW THAT THE METHYL FORM Is FRESHLY MADE? THIS SEEMS TO CE A CONCERN.
Jul 24, 2017 @ 10:43:49
I’ve recently been having problems that I can’t seem to find any explanation for other than my B complex vitamins that I’ve taken for years. I’ve always been a petite, energetic, hard working girl. I was introduced to B complex in my late teens, early 20’s, for the benefits that the B’s help with hair, skin, and nails. They worked beautifully! My nails quit breaking, my hair quit falling out and got thicker, and my skin was no longer dry and irritating. I slacked off my vitamins in 2009 and was hospitalized for pancreatitis, neuropathy, extremely underweight, and anemia. I immediately began taking the B complex again and 3 years later found myself at about 150 lbs, hot flashes, and 5 sizes bigger than I had ever been. But I felt healthy, looked healthy. Fast forward to May 2016, on vacation to visit family in Alaska. I had bought New vitamins, personal effects for the month long trip. With airport security I decided to just leave my vitamins at home and buy new ones up there. I got the less expensive brand, noticed a new label, but thought nothing of it. 2 days later on a fishing trip out in Cook Inlet, I found myself with an ‘eye headache’. It was so painful when we reached the shore, I had to stop at a convenience store and bought Advil!!
My headache got better, and I went to bed. I woke up the next morning, blind in my left eye! 3 opthamologists and several tests later, no explanation. As of today, my symptoms include, weight loss, rashes, eye discharge, skin discoloration, blotchy palms, anemia, panic attacks, memory loss, episodes of fast heart rate and pins and needles in my scalp, paranoia, no appetite, bulging veins, sweating, dizziness, dehydrated, neuropathy, disappearing and reappearing brown spots on skin, low red blood count and hemocrit, headaches, nausea, ringing in ears, and night sweats. I quit my Vitamin B complex 5 days ago, and I feel better!!
What is going on? As I do my own investigating and process of elimination, I noticed the vitamin label is different than previous ones and the nutritional facts say thiamin mononitrate 100 mg, is %6,667 daily value, and B12 as ‘cyanobolomin’ 15 mcg at %250!!
When you look up cyanocobolomin, it appears as CYANIDE!! WTF! If I understand how it works, it’s a vehicle that causes your body to create B12?
Well, what happens if your body doesn’t absorb correctly? I’ve never felt this way before. I feel like I’m being poisoned slowly!! Can anyone give me a 100% guarantee that this isn’t toxic?
Aug 05, 2017 @ 13:47:06
tried , both methyl and cyano.
one type , for a week,
then, rest…a week,
then, the other type for a week…
both are 500 micro grams.
the methyl gives me instant headaches from day 2.
cyano , is the fine one. no side effects ,,yet.
so’
what say you…please ?
kb
Aug 06, 2017 @ 11:48:54
Hello Kay Bhee,
Being that you tried both for only one week and at very low dosages, it is difficult to say whether either has had any positive effect or any side-effects. If your headache is related, it is far more likely that it is a binder in the supplement than the supplement itself. Further, if you took B12 in either form as a tablet or capsule, it is again unlikely that either was absorbed into your bloodstream as this can only happen if you have an optimal amount of intrinsic factor for this to occur (this is what makes absorption of B12 possible) and why I only recommend the sublingual form of B12. And even if the abortion did occur, we are back to the fact that you took a low doseage of B12 and only for one week. That said, often a herxheimer reaction may occur when your body is returning to health, however though possible, this doesn’t seem likely in what you are describing.
Bottom line, remember it is your body and always do what you feel is right for you!
Wish you the best of health always!
Sep 11, 2017 @ 20:38:33
Years ago, I took B12 injections for less than a month because I learned with research it was made from cyanide. No amount of assurances from the corrupted FDA or anyone else would convince me it is safe. I can think of dozens of medications & products they said was safe & have since been removed. But they have a long way to go. (such as Roundup ready GMO Soy & corn found in breast tumors.)
You can get just about any type of alternative drug in any form and administration from a compounding pharmacy. They will custom make drugs to fit your needs whether pills, sublingual or injections with the requirements & ingredients you need.
However, at the time, the cyanide version of B12 was less than $20 while the alternative B12 was $425. There was also a 3rd option for B12, also expensive which I cannot remember. Medical insurance doesn’t cover compounding pharmacy drugs but it is an option. I did not have an overwhelming need for B12 so I just stopped taking it. But for others who need options consider the compounding pharmacies. Their prices may have changed by now since it has been 10 years.
For the person regarding skin, hair & nails; Biotin alone will regrow hair, strengthen nails & help skin. 3000 mg Biotin is what I take for it to work. Now all my doctors take it too, after they saw it regrow hair. Have your doctor run blood tests and hair tests. They can test you for cyanide & other toxins or heavy metals. You may also be getting toxins from somewhere else without your knowledge.
I would like to find a long acting insulin without deadly phenol or mercury or nickel or aluminum as preservatives. Phenol is lysol spray & known to be deadly to young pets. I can smell the phenol in the insulin. I would like to find a safer existing version available at a regular pharmacy before I pay the high dollar compounding pharmacy to custom make it without insurance coverage.
Oct 12, 2017 @ 06:48:37
Didn’t care to address Seymour’s points and questions, ey, ?
Oct 12, 2017 @ 08:29:17
Hello Luke! I believe that all points have been addressed in various replies. It would appear that in some cases, we have to agree to disagree and simply do what is best for your own health. The best part is, we all have the right (and should!) do our own research and while doing so hopefully look at all sides and above all…use some common sense. The one comment that I would like to add, however, is anything that is naturally occurring, let’s say in food, is very different than what happens chemically within the body from an artificially made substance. This, in my opinion, should be basic common sense.
Wishing your the best!
Dec 02, 2017 @ 19:08:38
I have been eating nutitional yeast for 40 yrs and when fortified it contains the B12 Cyano, would I be better off eating the one grown on GMO sugar beets and not fortified or the one containing the synthetic cyano B12 but grown on organic sugar source.
Feb 13, 2018 @ 23:11:22
Methyl B12 makes me feel wired and anxious – “wired and tired”. Maybe it’s the brand I’m taking. I went with this particular brand because it doesn’t contain have the added sugar alcohols found in many other brands, but this brand does contain ionic copper solution, in addition to cranberry and cinnamon flavoring and glycerin.
The previous brand was a (liquid) B12 that also contained (synthetic) folic acid, as well as, the usual B’s, and I also found the that cyanocolamin more effective.
Very unusual thing happened while I was taking liquid cyano B12, my skin cleared up and the little dark spots in my toes disappeared, but now they’re back.