Health Benefits
The B vitamins help enzymes in our bodies do their jobs and are important for a wide range of cellular functions, like breaking down carbohydrates and transporting nutrients throughout the body. In addition, B complex can provide health benefits like:
Healthy Brain Function
The B vitamins play an inter-related role in keeping our brains running properly. Adequate amounts of B vitamins in the body are essential for optimal physiological and neurological functioning.
Some data shows that vitamin B6 in particular may play a role in the prevention of the neurological disorder Parkinson’s D isease. Vitamin B has been associated with a lower risk of the skin cancer melanoma in particular. Research shows that the B vitamins can significantly benefit mood and reduce the physiological response to stress.
For people with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS), vitamin B complex may help to reduce the severity of symptoms as part of a nutritional approach to treatmen.
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These vitamins help a variety of enzymes do their jobs, ranging from releasing energy from carbohydrates and fat to breaking down amino acids and transporting oxygen and energy-containing nutrients around the body. 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.
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. It is also a key player in the function and development of brain and nerve cells.
You should seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The Nutrition Source does not recommend or endorse any product.
What Are B Vitamins?
B vitamins are important for making sure the body’s cells are functioning properly.
They help the body convert food into energy (metabolism), create new blood cells, and maintain healthy skin cells, brain cells, and other body tissues. B vitamins often occur together in the same foods. However, those who struggle to meet their daily needs can use supplements.
People may develop B vitamin deficiencies if they do not get enough of the vitamins from their diet or supplements. They may also have a deficiency if their body cannot absorb nutrients properly, or if their body eliminates too much of them due to certain health conditions or medications.
What Is In The Vitamin B Complex?
If a product contains the vitamin B complex, it should have some of each of the following: Vitamin B-1 – thiamin Vitamin B-1 is vital to the healthy growth and function of organs, including the brain and heart.
Vitamin B-2 – riboflavin The body needs vitamin B-2 to break down fats and drugs. Vitamin B-3 – niacin The body needs niacin to maintain healthy skin, nerves, and digestion. Vitamin B-5 – pantothenic acid Vitamin B-5 is essential for the health of the brain and nervous system.
Vitamin B-6 – pyridoxine Vitamin B-6 helps the body make new red blood cells, which carry oxygen throughout the body. It also helps keep the immune system strong. Vitamin B-7 – biotin Biotin is essential for healthy hair, nails, and nerve function.
During pregnancy, folic acid may reduce the risk of certain birth defects. Adequate levels of B-12 also prevent pernicious anemia, which is a deficiency of this nutrient.