Vitamin B12 (Cyanacobalamin)
works closely with Folic Acid to promote new cell formation,
cell life and function. The Merck Index states, "This
coenzyme [Cyanacobalamin] is the metabolically active
form of vitamin B-12." Most B12 deficiencies occur
from poor gastric absorption, but B12 is only available
in animal foods, therefore vegetarians are commonly
deficient.
Oral absorption of Vitamin B12 is poor, as it is mostly
destroyed in the digestive process. A sublingual (under-the-tongue)
form has shown to be superior for absorption.
References:
Wright, JV. Dr. Wright's
Guide to Healing with Nutrition. Keats Publishing, Inc.,
New Caanan, CT; 1990: pp.30-44, 135,219, 475-507,533-534.
Colgan, M. Optimum
Sports Nutrition. Advanced Research Press, NY, NY; 1993:
pp.8-18, 177-178, 343-345.
Dunne, LJ. Nutrition
Almanac, 3rd Edition. Mcgraw-Hill, NY; 1990: pp.31-34,
121-22.
Lieberman, S, and
Brunig, N. The Real Vitamin and Mineral Book. Avery
Publishing, Garden City, NY; 1990: pp.97-99.
Rector-Page, lLG.
Healthy Healing. Healthy Healing Publications, Ninth
Edition, 1992: p.18.
Balch, JF, and Balch
PA. Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Avery Publishing,
Garden City, NY;1993: pp.7-11.