Methylated multivitamins, often shortened to "meadows," are a class of dietary supplements that contain modified forms of vitamin B vitamins. These modified vitamins, which include methylfolate,甲基钴胺素,甲基维生素B6,和甲基维生素B12, are designed to be more easily absorbed by the body, particularly those with certain genetic defects or metabolic disorders that affect the body's ability to convert standard vitamins into their active forms.
Historical Background
The concept of modified vitamins, including methyated vitamins, has been researched for centuries by scientists looking for ways to improve the bioavailability of vitamin B-complexes. Early studies focused on developing vitamins that could be taken orally, but were not effective as direct-acting supplements. The discovery of active forms of vitamin B vitamins in the early 1990s marked a significant milestone in the development of these compounds.
Methylfolate
Methylfolate, commonly known as L-methyltetrahydrofolate, is the most well-known and widely used form of vitamin B9 in methylated multivitamins. Folate is essential for DNA synthesis and repair, and the conversion of folic acid to its active, methylated form is carried out by the enzyme dihydrofolate reductase (DHFR). Methylfolate is the preferred form of folate for most people because it is readily absorbed by the body and provides three carbon molecules needed for various methylation reactions.
Methylcobalamin
Methylcobalamin is another important form of vitamin B12 in methylated multivitamins. Vitamin B12 is vital for maintaining healthy nerves, brain function, and energy production. It is naturally found in animal products, but can also be synthesized from cobalt and vitamins. Unlike cobalamin, which is the synthetic form of vitamin B12 found in many dietary supplements, methylcobalamin is more bioavailable and easier for the body to use.
Methyl Vitamin B6 and B12
Vitamin B6 and B12 are key nutrients in the body's metabolism and immune function. Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, plays a crucial role in the synthesis of neurotransmitters and氨基酸代谢。Methylated B6, in the form of pyridoxal 5' – phosphate (P5P), is particularly active in the methylation process, helping to convert homocysteine to cysteine, a key intermediate in the production of glutathione, the body's primary antioxidant。
Vitamin B12, on the other hand, is essential for maintaining proper oxygen and carbon dioxide transport in the body. It is also involved in DNA synthesis,red blood cell production, and is crucial for the proper functioning of the nervous system。Methylated B12 is more bioavailable than its synthetic counterpart, making it a preferred choice for many individuals.
为何有人需要甲基转移酶缺乏综合症（Mthfr）的甲基化多维生素？
患有Mthfr突变的人，体内无法有效将正常的叶酸转化为活性形态的甲硫氨酸。这对怀孕妇女和儿童来说尤其有害，因为他们在此期间的叶酸需求量较大。甲硫氨酸是DNA合成、细胞修复和蛋白质合成的重要组成部分，同时也是神经递质和精神健康的基础分子。
Methylated多维生素通过提供活性形态的B族维生素，帮助满足个体在此方面的需求。它们可以促进细胞功能并改善个体的整体健康状况，特别是对于有Mthfr突变的孕妇。然而，在选择这些产品作为补充方案时需要注意个别情况的适用性，因为每个人的症状和体质各不相同，且可能还涉及遗传学因素、健康状况和生活方式选择等多种考量维度。
