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Health Benefits of Taking Vitamin B Complex

B vitamins help maintain proper brain function as well as the health of nerves, skin, hair, eyes, liver and mouth. They also help maintain a healthy gastrointestinal tract. Because the B vitamins work together, a deficiency in one vitamin often indicates a deficiency in another. The B vitamins work as a team to help with general overall health. The B vitamins should be taken together, which is easily accomplished by taking a B-complex supplement.

  1. Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)

    • Thiamine is an antioxidant, protecting the body from degenerative effects caused by aging, alcohol consumption and smoking. It optimizes brain function and cognitive activity. Thiamine also enhances blood circulation and blood formation.

    Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)

    • Riboflavin helps prevent and treat cataracts. It is necessary for red blood cell production and growth. Riboflavin helps metabolize carbohydrates, fats and proteins, and helps eliminate dandruff.

    Vitamin B3 (Niacin)

    • Niacin helps lower cholesterol and improves circulation. It is also a memory enhancer. Niacin aids in the function of the nervous system and helps metabolize carbohydrates, fats and proteins.

    Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)

    • Pantothenic acid is a stamina enhancer and helps prevent certain forms of anemia. All cells in the body require pantothenic acid, but it is mostly concentrated in the organs. Its main role is the production of adrenal hormones and the formation of antibodies. It also helps in the conversion of fats, carbohydrates, and proteins into energy. Pantothenic acid may also be helpful in the treatment of depression and anxiety.

    Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)

    • Pyridoxine is involved in more bodily functions than almost any other nutrient. It is needed for normal brain function, immune system function and antibody production. It helps with cancer immunity and aids in the prevention of arteriosclerosis. Pyridoxine is also helpful in the treatment of allergies, asthma and arthritis.

    Vitamin B12 (Methylcobalamin)

    • The most effective form of B12 is methylcobalamin. However, the most common form is cyanocobalamin, which is difficult for the body to absorb. Pay attention to the form you are taking.
      Methylcobalamin is active in the protection and growth of the nervous system. B12 may help prevent Parkinson's disease, and may actually slow the progression of the disease in those who already have it. B12 is important in cardiovascular function. B12 also helps regulate the formation of red blood cells and helps in the use of iron, which is needed to prevent anemia.

    Biotin

    • Biotin is needed for healthy hair and skin. It also aids in cell growth and metabolization of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Biotin also helps promote healthy sweat glands, bone marrow and nerve tissue.

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