Methylcobalamin (Vitamin B12): 120 mcg
Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is a bacterial product naturally found in animal products, especially organ meats such as liver, with small amounts derived from peanuts and fermented soy products, such as miso and tempeh. It is essential that vegetarians consume a vitamin B12 supplement to maintain optimal health. Vitamin B12, when ingested, is stored in the liver and other tissues for later use. It supports the maintenance of cells, especially those of the nervous system, bone marrow and intestinal tract. Vitamin B12 is important in homocysteine metabolism (homocysteine is an amino acid that is formed within the body). Normal homocysteine levels are important for maintaining cardiovascular health. Deficiencies of the vitamins folic acid, pyridoxine (B6) or cobalamin (B12) can result in elevated levels of homocysteine). Folate and B12, in their active coenzyme form are both necessary cofactors for the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, thus helping to maintain healthy blood levels of homocysteine.*
Methylcobalamin is one of the naturally occurring forms of vitamin B12 found in the human body. The liver must convert cyanocobalamin, the form of B12 most commonly used in supplements, into methylcobalamin before it can be properly utilized by the body; methylcobalamin is more effective than non-active forms of vitamin B12. Methylcobalamin also assists in the formation of SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine), a nutrient that has powerful mood-elevating properties.*
Folate (as (6S)-5-methyltetrahydrofolic calcium): 430 mcg
Folic acid is mainly found in fruits and vegetables. Dark, leafy greens, oranges, orange juice, beans, peas and Brewer’s yeast are the best sources. Folic acid boosts the benefits of B12 supplementation. These two B vitamins join forces and work together to help maintain normal red blood cells. Folic acid assists in the normal utilization of amino acids and proteins, as well as supporting the construction of the material for DNA and RNA synthesis, which is necessary for all bodily functions. Scientific studies have found that when working in tandem with folic acid, B12 is capable of promoting normal homocysteine levels. This works toward supporting a healthy cardiovascular and nervous system.
Riboflavin-5-Phosphate (Vitamin B2): 3 mg
Vitamin B2 is found in liver, dairy products, dark green vegetables and some types of seafood. Vitamin B2 serves as a coenzyme, working with other B vitamins. It promotes healthy red blood cell formation, supports the nervous system, respiration, antibody production and normal human growth. It supports healthy skin, nails, hair growth and helps regulate thyroid activity (a healthy thyroid is essential in maintaining a healthy weight, among other things). Vitamin B2 plays a crucial role in turning food into energy as a part of the electron transport chain, driving cellular energy on the micro-level. Riboflavin can be useful for pregnant or lactating women, as well as athletes due to their higher caloric needs. Vitamin B2 also aids in the breakdown of fats. Vitamin B2 is water-soluble and cannot be stored by the body except in insignificant amounts. It must be replenished daily.*
Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (Vitamin B6): 6 mg
Poultry, fish, whole grains and bananas are the main dietary sources of vitamin B6. B6 is a co-factor required for protein and amino acid metabolism and helps maintain proper fluid balance. It also assists in the maintenance of healthy red and white blood cells which keeps our body healthy. Vitamin B6 is required for hemoglobin synthesis (hemoglobin is the protein portion of red blood cells which carries oxygen throughout the body). Because vitamin B6 is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters in the brain and nerve cells, it has been recommended as a nutrient to enhance mental function, specifically mood. Athletic supplements often include vitamin B6 because it promotes the conversion of glycogen to glucose for energy in muscle tissue. Vitamin B6, when taken with folic acid, has been shown to help maintain normal plasma levels of homocysteine, which promotes optimal cardiovascular health. Vitamin B6 should be administered as a part of a complex of other B-vitamins for best results.*
Potassium (Bicarbonate): 95 mg
Potassium is an electrolyte stored in the muscles. Foods rich in potassium include bananas, oranges, cantaloupe, avocado, raw spinach, cabbage and celery. Potassium is an essential macromineral that helps maintain fluid balance in the body. It also plays a role in a wide variety of biochemical and physiological processes. Among other things, potassium promotes the transmission of nerve impulses, the contraction of cardiac, skeletal and smooth muscle, the production of energy, the synthesis of nucleic acids and the maintenance of normal blood pressure.*
In 1928, it was first suggested that high potassium intake could help maintain cardiovascular health. Potassium promotes normal muscle relaxation and insulin release. It also promotes glycogen and protein synthesis. Potassium is an electrolyte that promotes normal heartbeat. Potassium is important in releasing energy from protein, fat and carbohydrates during metabolism. Potassium helps regulate water balance, aids in recovery from exercise and helps with the elimination of wastes. Sodium and potassium are two of the most important ions in maintaining the homeostatic equilibrium of the body fluids.*
Thiamin HCl (Vitamin B1): 2 mg
Thiamin promotes normal carbohydrate metabolism and nerve function. Thiamin is required for a healthy nervous system, and supports the production of certain neurotransmitters which have an important role in muscle function. It supports the digestive process, increases energy and helps promote mental clarity.*
D-Calcium Pantothenate (Vitamin B5): 20 mg
Pantothenic acid (B5) promotes proper neurotransmitter activity in the brain. Pantothenic acid is also known as the anti-stress vitamin because it detoxifies brain tissue, helps relieve physical and emotional stress, and promotes the secretion of hormones essential for optimal health.*
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3): 20 mg
Niacin is a water-soluble vitamin necessary for many aspects of health, growth and reproduction. Niacin supports the proper functioning of the digestive system, skin and nerves. It is also important for the conversion of food to energy. Niacin is found in dairy products, poultry, fish, lean meats, nuts, eggs, legumes, and enriched breads and cereals.*
Biotin (Vitamin B7): 300 mcg
Biotin can be found in food sources such as egg yolks, peanuts, beef liver, milk, cereals, almonds and Brewer’s yeast. Biotin promotes healthy cell growth, the production of fatty acids, metabolism of fats and amino acids. It supports the citric acid cycle, which is the process in which energy is generated during exercise. Biotin is also helpful in maintaining steady blood sugar levels. Biotin is often recommended for strengthening hair and nails.*