The Primary Active Ingredient: Cyanocobalamin
At the core of most Nature Made B12 supplements is cyanocobalamin, a synthetic and stable form of Vitamin B12. Cyanocobalamin is the most common and cost-effective form of B12 used in dietary supplements and fortified foods. While it is not the naturally occurring, active form (methylcobalamin), the body effectively converts cyanocobalamin into its active forms for use. This conversion process makes cyanocobalamin a reliable way to supplement B12, supporting cellular energy production, brain function, and red blood cell formation.
Ingredients by Nature Made Product Form
The full list of ingredients for a Nature Made B12 product is determined by its delivery method, which affects the inactive components. These binders, fillers, and sweeteners ensure the supplement holds its shape, is palatable, and delivers the active ingredient effectively. It is always important to check the product label for the most current and specific ingredient information.
Softgels
For products like Nature Made Vitamin B12 1000 mcg Softgels, the primary ingredients are:
- Active Ingredient: Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)
- Inactive Ingredients:
- Soybean Oil
- Gelatin
- Glycerin
- Yellow Beeswax
- Water
- Rapeseed Lecithin (or Lecithin)
- Colors Added (Including Carmine)
These softgels contain soy, and the use of gelatin makes them unsuitable for vegans or vegetarians.
Tablets (Standard and Time-Release)
Nature Made also offers B12 in a tablet form, which features a different set of inactive ingredients to create the hard pill structure. Examples of tablet ingredients include:
- Active Ingredients: Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin) and Calcium (as Calcium Carbonate)
- Inactive Ingredients:
- Cellulose Gel
- Hypromellose
- Stearic Acid
- Magnesium Stearate
- Croscarmellose Sodium
- Silicon Dioxide
Sublingual Lozenges
Designed to dissolve under the tongue for absorption, the sublingual form has distinct ingredients for flavor and solubility:
- Active Ingredient: Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)
- Inactive Ingredients:
- Mannitol
- Corn Starch
- Crospovidone
- Stearic Acid
- Silicon Dioxide
- Magnesium Stearate
- Sucralose
- Natural and Artificial Cherry Flavor
This formulation may contain wheat.
Gummies (Standard and Zero Sugar)
As a chewy and flavored option, Nature Made B12 gummies have a different composition tailored for texture and taste:
- Active Ingredient: Vitamin B12 (as Cyanocobalamin)
- Inactive Ingredients (Extra Strength Gummies):
- Glucose Syrup
- Sugar
- Water
- Gelatin
- Citric Acid
- Pectin
- Palm Oil
- Colors Added
- Natural Flavors
- Carnauba Wax
- Inactive Ingredients (Zero Sugar Gummies):
- Maltitol Syrup
- Maltitol
- Water
- Citric Acid
- Pectin
- Sodium Citrate
- Palm Oil
- Carnauba Wax
- Natural Flavors
Comparison of Nature Made B12 Formulations
| Feature | Softgels | Tablets | Sublingual Lozenges | Gummies |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Active Ingredient | Cyanocobalamin | Cyanocobalamin | Cyanocobalamin | Cyanocobalamin |
| Form | Softgel capsule | Hard tablet | Dissolvable lozenge | Chewy candy |
| Inactive Ingredients | Soybean oil, gelatin, glycerin, beeswax, lecithin | Cellulose gel, stearic acid, magnesium stearate | Mannitol, sucralose, corn starch, flavors | Glucose syrup, sugar/maltitol, gelatin, pectin, natural flavors |
| Contains Allergens | Soy | None listed | Potential wheat | None listed |
| Suitable For Vegans | No (contains gelatin) | Yes, typically | No (contains gelatin) | No (contains gelatin) |
The Importance of Inactive Ingredients
Beyond the active vitamin, inactive ingredients, also known as excipients, play crucial roles in a supplement's formulation. These components ensure the product is stable, bioavailable, and user-friendly. In tablets, fillers like cellulose gel and binders such as magnesium stearate are used to form the pill and prevent ingredients from sticking to manufacturing equipment. In softgels, gelatin and glycerin create the encapsulation that protects the ingredients and allows for easy swallowing. For gummies, ingredients like sugar, corn syrup, and pectin provide the desired texture and sweetness. The choice of inactive ingredients can also affect the absorption rate, with sublingual lozenges designed for faster sublingual absorption compared to regular tablets that dissolve in the stomach.
Cyanocobalamin vs. Methylcobalamin
As noted, Nature Made primarily uses cyanocobalamin. It is a synthetic, yet highly stable, form of B12 that is widely used in dietary supplements due to its cost-effectiveness and stability. The body converts it into the active forms methylcobalamin and adenosylcobalamin. Methylcobalamin, on the other hand, is a naturally occurring and more biologically active form that is sometimes used in other supplements. While some studies suggest natural forms may be retained better, the difference in effectiveness for most people is often negligible, and cyanocobalamin is considered a safe and effective option.
Conclusion
While the primary vitamin component is a consistent factor across the product line, the specific inactive ingredients used in Nature Made B12 vary considerably with the product format. Softgels use oils and gelatin, tablets utilize binders and fillers, and gummies incorporate sweeteners and gelling agents. The choice of form affects not only the inactive components but also factors like palatability and suitability for different dietary needs, such as vegetarianism or veganism. Consumers should always check the product label for the full ingredient list and consider their personal preferences and any dietary restrictions before selecting a supplement.
For more information on the various types of B12 and their bioavailability, consult resources from organizations like the National Institutes of Health.
