Look out for these 3 multivitamin "red flags!"
#1: What form of folate (vitamin B9) is used?
The first thing to look for when choosing a multivitamin is what form of folate it contains. Often, folic acid is used, the synthetic form of natural folate. You want to avoid this form because synthetic folic acid can actually inhibit a variety of enzymes in your natural folate pathway.
Also, your body does not convert folic acid into folate (active vitamin B9) very well. Synthetic folic acid has to go through an incredibly slow metabolic process to be converted to the active form, 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5- MTHF).
5-MTHF is the most bioavailable form of vitamin B9 and is considered “tissue ready.” Furthermore, when folic acid builds up in the inactive form in the body, it can prevent protein synthesis by healthy cells.
What to look for in your multivitamin: Folate or 5- MTHF.
#2: What form of vitamin B12 is used?
The second red flag to be on the lookout for is what kind of vitamin B12 is used in the multivitamin. Cyanocobalamin, a man-made form of vitamin B12, is unfortunately commonly used because it is very inexpensive, yet it is also very poorly bioavailable (meaning it is not readily absorbed by your body).
When cyanocobalamin, the synthetic form of B12, enters your body, it is converted into either methylcobalamin or adenosylcobalamin, which are the two active forms of B12 (and the forms you want to look for when selecting a multivitamin). Methylcobalamin is a naturally occurring form of vitamin B12 that can be obtained through supplements, as well as food sources like fish, meat, eggs, and milk.
What to look for in your multivitamin: Methylcobalamin or Adenosylcobalamin
#3: Are unnecessary coloring agents or fillers used?
Used to add color and improve texture, these added ingredients provide no health benefits and are simply fillers. In addition to this, some may even lead to adverse health effects.
A few fillers you want to avoid include:
- Magnesium silicate: may cause stomach problems.
- Titanium oxide: may be linked to lung disease.
- Hydrogenated oils: trans fats linked to heart disease.
- Artificial colors: often found in gummies, these may be linked to behavioral problems in children.
Make sure to talk to a nutritionist or health care provider to help you decipher supplement ingredients and select the best option for your needs.
Juno Wellness is here to help!
We offer personalized nutrition consultations
At Juno Wellness, we have a team of licensed dietitians and nutritionists who can help you identify the right multivitamin and supplements for you.
If you would like to receive personal recommendations and learn more about your health, please schedule a free exploratory call with a Juno Wellness practitioner today to get the conversation started!
Did you know that Juno Wellness offers a wide range of high-quality supplements that can help you boost your health naturally?
We carry only premium, professional supplements that have been thoroughly researched, undergo multiple quality inspections, and have the purest raw materials, guaranteeing purity, and potency. Learn more about our brands here.
For your convenience, you can shop our selection of multivitamins and supplements online and receive free shipping nationwide on any orders over $100.
Enjoy this Vitamin B12-rich recipe on us!
Corn and Quinoa salad with Steak
Servings: 3
Cooking time: 30 min
Ingredients:
1/2 cup Quinoa (dry, rinsed)
1 ear Corn On The Cob
10 ozs Ribeye Steak, Boneless (room temperature)
Sea Salt & Black Pepper (to taste)
3 cups Baby Spinach
1/3 cup Red Onion (thinly sliced)
1/4 cup Cilantro Lime Dressing
Directions:
1. Cook the quinoa according to package directions. Set aside to cool.
2. Using a cast-iron pan or grill, remove the husk from the corn. Cook the corn over medium-high heat for about one to two minutes per side until lightly charred on all sides. Once it is cooked, remove it and let it cool before slicing the kernels off the cob.
3. Pat the steak very dry with paper towel. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Use the same skillet and cook the steak for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping and turning every two to three minutes, until a dark crust has formed on both sides and the steak is cooked to your liking. Remove and let rest for about 10 minutes.
5. Divide the quinoa, corn, spinach, and red onion evenly between plates. Top with the steak and cilantro lime dressing. Enjoy!
