Vitamin B

The B vitamins also known as Vitamin B complex are a group of vitamins which play a role in the activities of various enzymes in the body. Each of the B vitamins have individual characteristics and health benefits, but often found co-existing in the same food sources. Examples of some of the roles the B group of vitamins has includes:

• Vitamin B1 (thiamine) converts carbohydrates in our foods into usable energy and supports the function of the heart.

• Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) produces the thyroid hormone to speed up metabolism.

• Vitamin B3 (niacin) helps control blood sugar, maintains healthy skin and supports the function of the nervous system.

• Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) manufactures sex hormones and supports growth and development.

• Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) supports the production of red blood cells and antibodies.

• Vitamin B7 (Biotin) helps ensure the removal of waste protein products.

• Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) supports growth and development especially during foetal development.

• Vitamin B12 (Cobalamins) produces the genetic (DNA & RNA) material in cells as well as manufacturing red blood cells in bone marrow.

The health benefits of ensuring a good balance of B vitamins are numerous including; reducing the risk of heart disease, maintaining healthy skin, improving the control of blood sugar, protecting against birth defects, reducing the symptoms of depression, protecting the eyes, enhancing energy and supporting the nervous system.

Maintaining a healthy diet is one way to ensure a balanced intake of B vitamins including foods such as meat, fish, poultry, liver, fortified cereals, fruit and vegetables, avocados, mushrooms and yoghurts. However to support the body further, a supplement containing one or more of the B Vitamins, such as a Vitamin B complex is a great way to support a healthy body.

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