Contents
E many different types of vitamin B. This section has information on: thiamin (vitamin B1)
riboflavin (vitamin B2)
niacin (vitamin B3)
pantothenic acid
vitamin B6
biotin (vitamin B7)
folate and folic acid
vitamin B.
Extension
L. Previously updated by: Bellows and R. Moore.
What The Numbers Mean
For example, here are some guidelines set up by the Institute of Medicine: The RDA (Recommended Dietary Allowance) and the AI (Adequate Intake) are the amounts of a vitamin or mineral you need to keep healthy and stay well-nourished. They’re tailored to women, men, and specific age groups. The UL (Tolerable Upper Intake Level) is the maximum amount of daily vitamins and minerals that you can safely take without risk of an overdose or serious side effects.
For certain nutrients, the higher you go above the UL, the greater the chance you’ll have problems. Separate from the RDA and the UL, the Food and Drug Administration uses a different measure for the nutrients you need: The DV (Daily Value) is the only measurement you’ll find on food and supplement labels. The DV is sometimes the same as the RDA.
Explore:
Spotlight on Three of the Bs: Folate, Vitamin B6, and Vitamin B12
One of the advances that changed the way we look at vitamins was the discovery that too little folate is linked to birth defects such as spina bifida and anencephaly. It is also added to foods and sold as a supplement in the form of folic acid; this form is actually better absorbed than that from food sources—85% vs. 50%, respectively. Learn more about vitamin B6 and health
Vitamin B12 Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is naturally found in animal foods.
It can also be added to foods or supplements. Vitamin B12 is needed to form red blood cells and DNA. Learn more about vitamin B12 and health
Related
Vitamins and Minerals
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You should seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.