How Are Methylated Vitamins Made? Discover Their Process
Since methylated vitamins are able to support the body where regular vitamins cannot, they are becoming increasingly popular.
For anyone who wants to optimize their health with the right supplements, it is necessary to know how they are made.
In this article, we will take a look at the process behind methylated vitamins, why they are different from other vitamins, and the benefits to the body.
What Are Methylated Vitamins?
Vitamins that have been methylated undergo a specific biochemical process called methylation.
Methylation can be written as adding a methyl group (a carbon atom bonded to three hydrogen atoms) to a molecule, like a vitamin.
The body can then more easily absorb and use the vitamin through this process.
The vitamins that are methylated are especially important for those with genes that can't absorb or convert vitamins naturally and for those who aren't very good at methylating.
Methylated vitamins are common examples of such vitamins that include methylcobalamin, the active form of vitamin B12, and methylfolate, the active form of folate.
Some vitamins, such as folate, may not work as well in people with certain genetic mutations, like the MTHFR gene mutation, without methylation.
The Science Behind Methylation: A Key Step in Vitamin Synthesis
Methylation is a biochemical process that happens in the body, nd not only for vitamins but for many other functions (1).
Methylation is the addition of a methyl group to a molecule, which can change its structure and function.
This process helps vitamins become more active so the body will use them better.
As an example, vitamin B9 (folic acid) needs to be converted into its active form (methylfolate) before the body can use it.
In particular, this process takes place mainly in the liver and requires certain enzymes and cofactors to help with methylation.
Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is one of the most important enzymes in this process because it converts folic acid to methylfolate.
People with a genetic mutation that prevents them from converting some nutrients into their active forms usually get more benefit from methylated vitamins.
How Are Methylated Vitamins Made in the Body?
Within the body, certain enzymes in the liver add methyl groups onto vitamins and other molecules, beginning the natural process of methylation.
The enzymes depend on compounds such as methionine (an amino acid), which is changed to S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe), a critical methyl donor.
SAMe provides methyl groups to make other molecules in the body biologically active, such as vitamins.
But not everyone has genetic mutations, such as the MTHFR mutation, which makes it hard for their body to methylate some vitamins properly.
Consequently, these deficiencies, or suboptimal use of essential nutrients like folate and B12 that are essential for such processes as DNA synthesis, energy production, and red blood cell formation, can occur (2).
These genetic variations mean that for some people, methylated forms of vitamins such as methylfolate and methylcobalamin are more beneficial because they skip the need for the body to convert them into their active forms.
If this is the case, methylated vitamins can be supplemented to ensure that the body gets the nutrients it needs to stay healthy.
Methylated Vitamins are different from Synthetic Vitamins
Vitamins methylated are not the same as synthetic vitamins, since these vitamins are much more bioavailable and effective.
Synthetic vitamins are made by chemical means that mimic a natural vitamin structure, which sometimes doesn't result in the most powerful form of vitamins.
On the other hand, methylated vitamins are already in their active forms, which makes them more easily absorbable and usable by the body.
For instance, synthetic folic acid found in supplements and fortified foods must be converted by the body to methylfolate before it can be used.
Sadly, people with methylation problems may not be able to make this conversion and so, perhaps, may lack the nutrients or absorb them less effectively.
But methylated versions of vitamins like methylcobalamin (B12) and methylfolate (B9) don't need this conversion, so they are readily used by the body.
However, the way these vitamins are processed by the body can make a big difference in the body's ability to truly reap the benefits of the nutrients.
The Pros and Cons of Methylated Vitamins
Similar to any supplement, methylated vitamins have their pros and cons based on the needs of the individual and surrounding circumstances.
Benefits:
Methylated vitamins are in their active form (absorbed and used by the body) better than nonmethylated forms.
More Effective for People with MTHFR Mutations: Those who have MTHFR mutations may have difficulty processing regular forms of vitamins such as folate and B12. This issue is bypassed by the methylated vitamins, so the body can still reap the benefits of these vital nutrients.
Methylated vitamins: Methylfolate and methylcobalamin may be better for certain health conditions, such as cardiovascular diseases or high homocysteine levels.
Drawbacks:
Risk of over supplementing: Since methylated vitamins are absorbed so easily, there is a risk of simply taking too much, causing such things as digestive problems and even toxicity if taken in excess.
Methylated vitamins: Methylated vitamins almost always cost more than nonmethylated vitamins, and so are less affordable for some individuals (3).
Methylated vitamins are not necessary for everyone. For people without genetic problems or a problem with vitamin absorption, methylated forms won't offer much benefit.
Who Needs Methylated Vitamins and Why?
Genetic factors or health conditions may cause some people to need more methylated vitamins than others.
The people with the MTHFR gene mutation, which affects the body's ability to process folate and other B vitamins, are one of the key groups that can benefit from methylated vitamins (4).
People with these mutations who haven't found a way around this without proper conversion of folic acid to methylfolate can be at risk of vitamin deficiencies, and the related health problems like fatigue, depression, and cognitive decline (5).
Beyond genetic mutations, people with digestive disorders like celiac disease, Crohn's disease, etc., may also have difficulty absorbing certain vitamins and can benefit from taking the methylated form.
Methylated vitamins may be more useful for older adults, pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions who may produce less of certain nutrients in an active form.
Consulting a healthcare provider can help you find out if you really need methylated vitamins.
How are Methylated Vitamins in Supplement Form Produced?
Supplements tend to produce methylated vitamins through a combination of natural and synthetic processes.
Manufacturers begin with raw material (such as folic acid or vitamin B12) and chemically modify the raw material to make the methylated version.
For instance, to make methylcobalamin (the form of vitamin B12 that is naturally methylated), the manufacturing process involves adding the methyl group to cyanocobalamin, a common synthetic form of B12, to render the form of B12 bioactive.
High precision is needed to create methylated vitamins properly so that the final product is effective, safe, and stable.
Supplement forms of vitamins are available in the form of capsules, tablets, or liquids and are often methylated.
When buying methylated vitamin supplements, it's important to buy high-quality supplements that contain no fillers, additives, and artificial ingredients.
Reputable brands are the best to rely on as you're getting the best product for your health needs.
Final Thoughts
To sum it up, methylated vitamins are an important part of your health regimen to ensure vitamin absorption and conversion if you are having trouble with vitamin absorption or conversion.
And for those who have genetic mutations or health conditions that contribute to problems of methylation, the methylation process makes certain vitamins, like B12 and folate, more bioavailable and more effective.
Taking methylated vitamins is not something anyone should do without thinking, and consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable if needed.
In the end, this will facilitate you to make healthy decisions concerning your health as you will understand how methylated vitamins are made and why they are important for you.
Taking methylated vitamins can be supportive for your well-being, but always remember that it's all about balance, and more isn't always better.
If you suspect you may need methylated vitamins, try to get quality supplements from known brands to assist you in achieving your health goals.
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FAQs on How Methylated Vitamins Are Made
What makes a vitamin methylated?
Methylated vitamin is one that has a methyl group, a carbon atom with three hydrogen atoms, added to the molecule, making it more bioavailable and effective.
Are methylated vitamins legit?
Methylated vitamins are real, and because of genetics, methylated vitamins are more effective for people who cannot take normal vitamins and convert them into their active forms.
What is the difference between ordinary and methylated vitamins?
Vitamins that are already methylated are in their active forms and are easier for the body to absorb and use compared to regular vitamins that require conversion.
Are methylated vitamins synthetic?
Synthetic and natural methylated vitamins, however, have different key differences; they are methylated vitamins and in their bioactive form.
When do I need methylated vitamins?
Methylated vitamins are appropriate for those who have a genetic mutation (like MTHFR), digestive issues, or health concerns that affect nutrient absorption. Seek personalized advice from the healthcare provider.
Related Studies
1. Title: Methyl Donor Micronutrients that Modify DNA Methylation and Gene Expression
This study explains how micronutrients like folate and B vitamins contribute to DNA methylation through one-carbon metabolism.
Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6471069/
2. Title: Vitamin B12 Role Especially in DNA Synthesis and Its Clinical Implications on
This review explains VitamB12's2's critical role in DNA synthesis and genomic stability via its function as a cofactor for methionine synthase, impacting DNA methylation and cellular replication.
Link: https://academicstrive.com/PSARJ/PSARJ180115.pdf
3. Title: A Randomized Pilot Trial to Evaluate the Bioavailability of Natural versus Synthetic B Vitamins
This pilot study indicated that both natural and synthetic B vitamins have comparable bioavailability, with some tendencies favoring natural vitamins, such as sustained effects for cobalamin and decreased homocysteine.
Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6930747/
4. Title: MTHFR polymorphisms and vitamin B12 deficiency
This study suggests the MTHFR C677T polymorphism doesn't protect against anemia and may correlate with chronic atrophic gastritis.
Link: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11512882/
5. Title: Uncovering the Hidden Dangers and Molecular Mechanisms of Excess Folate Intake
This review discusses the potential risks of excessive folate intake, including increased carcinogenesis risk and disruption of DNA methylation.
Link: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37960352/
