Vitamin B12 and Mental Health: An Expert Series

Part of the benefits of vitamin B₁₂ for supporting healthy brain function likely stem from its effects on homocysteine. Homocysteine is an amino acid formed in the body during healthy functioning. Typically, levels of homocysteine are kept low by vitamins B₁₂, folate and vitamin B₆. However, if levels of these B vitamins are inadequate, homocysteine levels can build up.

Clinical studies show that vitamin B₁₂ is vital in the metabolism of homocysteine. Vitamin B₁₂ is required by the enzyme that converts homocysteine back to methionine.⁴ Vitamin B₁₂, in combination with vitamin B6, folate, and betaine can provide a highly bioavailable combination of nutrients integral to maintaining healthy homocysteine metabolism and cardiovascular health.⁵

Another key factor in vitamin B₁₂’s ability to support healthy brain function is its role in neurotransmitter production. Vitamin B₁₂, like folate, is needed for the production of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. Standard support for regular low mood often targets these neurotransmitters. As such, serotonin is often described as the “feel good” neurotransmitter of the brain. By supporting the production of these neurotransmitters, vitamin B₁₂ plays a significant part in healthy brain function.

Vitamin B₁₂ is found in a number of foods, although mostly of animal origin, including liver, seafood, beef, dairy products and eggs. Vegetarians often do not get enough vitamin B₁₂ and typically need to supplement the vitamin. For supplementation, the active forms of vitamin B₁₂ are often preferred, including methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin, although hydroxycobalamin is readily converted as well.

As a nutrient, vitamin B₁₂ plays a crucial role in healthy brain function that supports mental health. Research suggests benefits that may be relevant for helping to support both healthy cognition and mood.