Tag: Pseudovitamin b12

For decades, many have believed that spirulina is a reliable plant-based source of vitamin B12, but scientific analysis reveals that this is largely a misconception. The compound found in most spirulina products is a biologically inactive pseudovitamin B12, which the human body cannot use effectively. This discovery has significant implications, especially for those following a vegan or vegetarian diet who depend on plant-based foods for all their nutrients.

According to some estimates, up to 40% of the US population has some form of vitamin B12 deficiency, driving many to seek supplements. This has fueled misconceptions about which forms of B12 are legitimate, with many people referring to the synthetic form, cyanocobalamin, as 'fake'.

According to scientific studies, the majority of the B12 found in commercially available spirulina is an inactive compound, not the human-usable vitamin. For this reason, spirulina is not a reliable source of bioavailable vitamin B12 for humans.

Despite popular claims, numerous studies and dietary advisories confirm that traditional spirulina is not a reliable source of bioavailable vitamin B12 for humans. This article investigates whether this superfood negatively impacts the body's ability to absorb true vitamin B12.

According to extensive scientific research, vitamin B12 is synthesized exclusively by certain bacteria and archaea, not by plants like alfalfa. This foundational fact is crucial for anyone asking: does alfalfa have vitamin B12, and can it meet my nutritional needs?