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What Are the Functions of B Complex Vitamins?

Vitamin B complex is the name given to a supplement that combines many of the essential Vitamin B vitamins in one formula. In general, it helps with body metabolism and maintenance of a healthy nervous system. The Vitamin B complex may be helpful for anyone whose diet is low in vitamin B or people who want to make sure they are receiving their daily vitamin requirements for optimal health and energy.

  1. Identification

    • Vitamin B complex is the name given to a group of water-soluble vitamins necessary for health. Originally, it was believed that all varieties of Vitamin B were just simply Vitamin B, but after careful study, the difference between each variety of vitamin was found and the the vitamins were given different numbers. Vitamin Bs are found in a variety of foods such as lentils, bananas, oats, turkey, tuna, salmon, avocado and Brazil nuts, to name a few.

    Features

    • Vitamin B complex is made from the following eight Vitamin B vitamins: thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxine (B6), cyanocobalamin (B12), folic acid (B7) and biotin (B9). There are other vitamins that are also part of the vitamin B group, and these may also be included in the Vitamin B complex, depending on what brand is purchased.

    Function

    • The Vitamin B complex metabolizes carbohydrates, fats, amino acids and protein in the body. In other words, they break down food in the body and assist with its conversion to energy. These vitamins are essential for healthy nerve function and healthy nerve sheaths; as well, they maintain skin and eye health and help produce red blood cells in the body to assist with DNA synthesis and repair.

    Benefits

    • A Vitamin B deficiency in the body can cause many health problems, including poor coordination, confusion, poor concentration and mental functioning, skin irritation and inflammation, fatigue, anaemia and a general strain on the the nervous system, which can lead to higher stress levels and depression. Taking a Vitamin B complex supplement will help you maintain a strong and healthy nervous system and digestive functions to ensure that you have enough energy and strength to get the most out of each day.

    Recommendations

    • Vitamin B complex may be of benefit to anyone with a high-stress lifestyle, because it provides energy to cope with stress and repairs and strengthens the nervous system. It is very useful for those suffering from depression or any illness that causes fatigue. Those who are pregnant should consult a doctor before taking Vitamin B supplements, as the dosage for pregnant women is very specific. Those taking the Vitamin B complex should never exceed the dosage, as too much of it can make you ill.

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