Energy Drinks That Contain Methylcobalamin

November 13, 2025 •

3 min read

While many energy drinks use the synthetic form of Vitamin B12, cyanocobalamin, a growing number of brands are now formulating their products with methylcobalamin. This more bioavailable, natural coenzyme form of B12 is often sought after for its potential health benefits and more efficient absorption.

Quick Summary

Several brands of energy drinks, energy shots, and powdered mixes now incorporate methylcobalamin as their Vitamin B12 source. This active form of the vitamin is preferred by some for its bioavailability and direct usability by the body. The trend reflects a consumer shift toward more natural ingredients in dietary supplements.

Key Points

Identify brands using methylcobalamin: Brands like Update Energy, ProBaller, and Jocko GO are known to use methylcobalamin, the natural form of Vitamin B12.
Understand the form of B12: Methylcobalamin is a bioactive and more bioavailable form compared to the synthetic cyanocobalamin, which requires conversion by the body.
Focus on ingredient lists: It is essential to read labels carefully to confirm if a product uses methylcobalamin, often listed as 'Vitamin B-12 (Methylcobalamin)'.
Moderate consumption is key: Excessive intake of energy drinks, even those with methylcobalamin, can lead to health issues due to high caffeine and sugar content.
B12 does not provide direct energy for most people: For those without a deficiency, the 'energy boost' from B12 is largely a misconception, with caffeine being the main driver of alertness.
Consider your individual needs: While methylcobalamin offers potential benefits for nerve and cognitive health, it should not replace medical advice for treating a B12 deficiency.

Brands and Products Featuring Methylcobalamin

For consumers looking to avoid the synthetic version of Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin), it is crucial to read ingredient labels carefully. The presence of 'methylcobalamin' or 'Vitamin B-12 (as Methylcobalamin)' will be listed directly in the nutrition facts. Several brands have prominently featured methylcobalamin in their formulations, often alongside other nootropics, vitamins, and natural sweeteners.

List of Popular Methylcobalamin Energy Products

Update Energy: The brand's v2.0 line offers several flavors like Berry, Lime, Mandarin, and Peach, all containing Vitamin B-12 (Methylcobalamin) along with other ingredients like L-Theanine and Paraxanthine.
ProBaller Energy Drink: This premium energy drink is noted for being NSF Sport Certified and includes Methylcobalamin in its B-vitamin complex.
NeuroGum: While not a drink, this energy and focus gum features Vitamin B12 as Methylcobalamin.
Jocko GO Energy Drink: This keto-friendly energy drink uses Vitamin B12 (as methylcobalamin) along with nootropics and natural caffeine.
Other Potential Brands: Some products found on retail sites like Amazon and Walmart, including certain Vitamin Energy shots and customized beverage options from wholesalers, also indicate the use of methylcobalamin.

The Methylcobalamin vs. Cyanocobalamin Debate

One of the most significant distinctions in the B12 world is the difference between methylcobalamin and cyanocobalamin. The choice between these two forms is often a point of debate for supplement manufacturers and health-conscious consumers. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:

Comparison Table: Methylcobalamin vs. Cyanocobalamin


Feature	Methylcobalamin	Cyanocobalamin
Source	Natural, bioactive form found in food and supplements.	Synthetic, man-made form.
Absorption	More bioavailable; ready for immediate use by the body.	Requires conversion by the body into an active form.
Retention	May be retained in the body for longer periods.	More readily excreted in the urine.
Stability	Less stable and susceptible to light.	Very stable and cost-effective.
Byproduct	No harmful byproducts.	Contains a trace amount of cyanide, which the body must clear.
Methylation	Essential for the methylation cycle and detoxification.	Less efficient for individuals with genetic methylation issues.

Why Energy Drinks Include Methylcobalamin

Marketers leverage the perceived superiority and “natural” label of methylcobalamin to attract health-conscious consumers. For many, the inclusion of a more bioavailable B12 form signals a higher-quality product, especially for those who follow vegan or vegetarian diets where B12 sources are limited. However, the actual energy boost from most energy drinks is primarily due to caffeine and other stimulants like taurine, not the B vitamins. The B12 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism, but its effects are most pronounced in individuals with a deficiency.

Risks and Considerations of Excessive Intake

While Vitamin B12 is water-soluble and any excess is typically excreted, excessive consumption of energy drinks containing it can lead to other health issues. The high caffeine and sugar content, common in many energy drinks, is a significant concern. Overconsumption can lead to heart palpitations, insomnia, anxiety, and weight gain from added sugars. Furthermore, one case study highlighted that sustained, heavy consumption of a methylcobalamin-containing energy drink led to a 36-fold increase in serum B12 levels in one individual, causing gastrointestinal issues. It is always recommended to consume these products in moderation and consult a healthcare provider for any concerns about vitamin intake.

Beyond the Boost: Broader Health Context

For those with documented B12 deficiencies, supplementation is necessary, but this is usually managed under a doctor's care with targeted products or injections. Methylcobalamin is also researched for its potential therapeutic effects on conditions like peripheral neuropathy, diabetic neuropathy, and other nervous system disorders. The presence of this active form in a readily available beverage format presents an accessible way for some to supplement, but it is not a substitute for proper medical guidance. For healthy individuals, the energy-boosting claims tied to B12 are often overstated, as the body will simply excrete what it doesn't need. National Institutes of Health (NIH) - Vitamin B12 Fact Sheet for Health Professionals

Conclusion

Several energy drink brands, such as Update Energy, ProBaller, and Jocko GO, have adopted methylcobalamin, the more natural and bioavailable form of Vitamin B12. This trend caters to health-aware consumers seeking what they perceive as a higher-quality ingredient. While methylcobalamin does play a key role in metabolic functions and nervous system health, the primary energy effect from these beverages is driven by other stimulants like caffeine. Consumers should be mindful of the overall composition of these drinks and consume them in moderation, especially considering the potential risks associated with high caffeine and sugar intake. For targeted B12 supplementation, consulting a healthcare provider is the best approach.

Frequently Asked Questions

Methylcobalamin is the natural, bioactive form of Vitamin B12 that the body can use immediately, while cyanocobalamin is a synthetic, inactive form that the body must convert before it can be utilized.

Brands like Update Energy, ProBaller Energy Drink, and Jocko GO Energy Drink are known to contain methylcobalamin in their formulations. Always check the ingredient list to be certain.

Some research suggests methylcobalamin is more readily absorbed and retained by the body, making it potentially more effective. However, for most healthy individuals, the primary energy boost from these drinks comes from caffeine, not the B12.

Vitamin B12 is water-soluble, so excess is typically excreted. However, one case showed that excessive intake from energy drinks can lead to very high serum B12 levels and potential gastrointestinal problems.

The use of methylcobalamin does not make an energy drink inherently safer. Other ingredients like high caffeine and sugar content still pose health risks such as heart issues, insomnia, and weight gain.

Not necessarily. While methylcobalamin is a natural form not derived from animal products, not all vegan energy drinks use it. It is important for vegan consumers to check the label for 'methylcobalamin' to confirm.

Methylcobalamin is less stable and more complex to manufacture than the highly stable and cost-effective cyanocobalamin, which contributes to its higher production cost.