Methylation is an important biochemical process that occurs in every cell of our body. It involves the donation of methyl groups which are crucial for various bodily functions like DNA synthesis, neurotransmitter production, detoxification etc. Issues with the methylation process can lead to a wide range of health problems.
This is where methylated vitamin supplements like Methyl Guard and Methyl Guard Plus come in. They provide active forms of important B vitamins that support methylation. But with so many options available, it can get confusing to decide which one is best for you.
I’ve taken both these supplements in the past, so let me break it down for you in simple terms. We’ll compare the ingredients, benefits, side effects and effectively answer the question – Methyl Guard or Methyl Guard Plus?
A Brief Comparison Table
Feature | Methyl Guard | Methyl Guard Plus |
Ingredients | – Methylfolate – Methyl B12 – B2 (Riboflavin) – B6 (P5P) | – Methylfolate – Methyl B12 – B2 (Riboflavin) – B6 (P5P) – Selenium – Zinc – Manganese – Molybdenum – Vitamin E |
Key Benefits | – Methylation support – Energy, mood and cognition – Homocysteine regulation – Detoxification | – All benefits of Methyl Guard – Added antioxidant protection – Bone, immune and thyroid support – Blood sugar regulation |
Best For | – MTHFR mutations – B12/folate deficiency – Vegans and vegetarians | – Chronic health issues – Nutrient deficiencies – High toxin exposure |
Potential Side Effects | – Headache, nausea – Insomnia – Anxiety, irritability – Acne | Same as Methyl Guard |
Verdict | Highly affordable active B vitamins for basic methylation support | More comprehensive support with added minerals and antioxidants |
Methyl Guard Ingredients
The base ingredients in Methyl Guard are:
- Methylfolate (5-MTHF) – 1600 mcg
- Methyl B12 (Methylcobalamin) – 1000 mcg
- B2 (Riboflavin) – 25 mg
- B6 (Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate) – 25 mg
Methylfolate is the active form of folic acid that directly participates in methylation reactions. Our body has to convert folic acid from foods and regular supplements into methylfolate. But research shows many people have genetic mutations affecting this conversion. Taking methylfolate bypasses this issue.
Methylcobalamin is the active form of vitamin B12 involved in methylation. It’s better absorbed than regular B12.
Riboflavin (B2) and P5P (active B6) are also essential cofactors in methylation. They ensure the entire process flows smoothly.
Methyl Guard Plus Ingredients
Methyl Guard Plus contains:
- Methylfolate – 1600 mcg
- Methyl B12 – 1000 mcg
- B2 (Riboflavin) – 25 mg
- B6 (P5P) – 25 mg
And additionally:
- Selenium (as Selenium Glycinate) – 200 mcg
- Zinc (as Zinc Glycinate) – 25 mg
- Manganese (as Manganese Glycinate) – 2 mg
- Molybdenum (as TRAACS Molybdenum Glycinate Chelate) – 125 mcg
- Vitamin E (as d-alpha tocopheryl succinate) – 67 mg
These are essential minerals and an antioxidant that further assist proper methylation.
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Key Benefits Of Methyl Guard And Methyl Guard Plus
Both these supplements provide methylfolate and methylcobalamin to support methylation and red blood cell formation.
Some of their benefits include:
- Increased energy and reduced fatigue
- Improved mood and cognitive function
- Healthy homocysteine levels
- Detoxification support
- Antioxidant protection
- Cellular repair and renewal
- Cardiovascular health
Methyl Guard Plus offers additional benefits from the minerals like:
- Bone strength
- Immune function
- Thyroid and adrenal support
- Male reproductive health
- Blood sugar regulation
So in terms of ingredients, Methyl Guard Plus has a more complete profile with its addition of minerals and vitamin E.
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Who Should Take These Supplements?
Methyl Guard and Methyl Guard Plus are helpful for those with:
- Genetic mutations affecting methylation like MTHFR variants
- Family history of cardiovascular disease, dementia etc.
- High homocysteine levels
- Depression, anxiety, fatigue, brain fog
- Chemical exposures and high toxins
- Nutrient deficiencies
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Vegans and vegetarians can also benefit from these active B vitamin sources. The extra minerals in Methyl Guard Plus provide broader nutritional support.
If you eat a very poor diet or suffer from chronic health issues, Methyl Guard Plus may be the better choice. It provides more comprehensive methylation support.
But if you simply want the essential methylated folate and B12, Methyl Guard is a cost-effective option.
Possible Side Effects
Both these supplements are very safe when taken as directed. But some users may experience:
- Headache, nausea
- Trouble sleeping
- Anxiety or irritability
- Acne breakouts
This is typically due to starting at too high a dose. Cut back and build up slowly. Always take methyl supplements with food to minimize side effects.
High doses of methylfolate can mask vitamin B12 deficiency. So take methyl B12 regularly with methylfolate.
Also watch the video!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Methyl Guard Plus provides complete methylation support with methylfolate, methyl B12, B vitamins, and essential minerals. It helps improve energy, mood, detoxification, and overall health in those with methylation issues.
Methylfolate is the active form of folic acid while methylcobalamin is the active form of vitamin B12. Both participate in critical methylation reactions in the body. Taking them in active form bypasses metabolic issues that can affect absorption and utilization.
The best time to take Methyl Guard or Methyl Guard Plus is in the morning with food. This ensures your body has the active B vitamins needed for methylation throughout the day. The minerals and nutrients work synergistically for optimal benefit.
Yes, it’s recommended to take methyl B12 regularly when supplementing with methylfolate. Methylfolate can mask a B12 deficiency, so taking both together ensures sufficient levels of the two connected nutrients.
Hope this overview helps you learn more about Methyl Guard and Methyl Guard Plus. Let me know if you have any other questions!
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The Verdict
For most healthy adults, Methyl Guard should meet basic methylation needs at an affordable price point. It covers the two most important active B vitamins – methylfolate and methyl B12.
Methyl Guard Plus is a good choice if you want those extras like selenium, zinc, manganese for added health benefits. It provides thorough methylation support.
Those with chronic illness or increased toxin exposure will benefit more from Methyl Guard Plus. The additional minerals help mitigate nutrient deficiencies.
Both products are free of common allergens like soy, gluten and dairy. They use bioavailable forms for good absorption.
I hope this comparison helps you decide which methylated supplement suits you better. Let me know if you have any other questions!