You Need Some More B!
by Abby Austin
We’ve heard it before, either from your parents or your doctor, “take your vitamins”. But with 13 essential vitamins, can you name them all, with their benefits?
The eight B vitamins, known together as Vitamin B Complex, help the body stay energized by transforming food to fuel. These nutrients consist of B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9 and B12. So, why do you need all of them? Each targets a specific benefit and is potentially consumed in your current diet; however taking a Vitamin B complex helps ensure they work in tandem and you’re getting the maximum benefit.
What do they do?
B1, aka Thiamine: often related to anti-stress, B1 helps protect the immune system by breaking down simple carbohydrates to assist the body in building new healthy cells
B2, aka Riboflavin: known as an antioxidant that helps fight damaged cell as well as prevents premature aging and heart diesease. B2 also moves oxogen through the body by producing red blood cells. Though not scientifically sustained, B2 has proven to dissemble migraines.
B3, aka Niacin: used to raise the good cholesterol – HDL. The greater the HDL, the less bad cholesterol one will encounter.
B5, aka Pantothenic Acid: is in nearly every food group. Not only does B5 break down carbohydrates and fats for energy, it also produces sex and stress hormones such as testosterone. In conjunction with stress-hormones, B5 stimulates healthier, clearer skin.
B6, aka Pyridoxine: regulates the homocysteine amino acid, which is affiliated with heart disease. B6 aids the body to establish serotonin, melatonin, and norepinephrine, all positive influencers on mood and sleep patterns. Studies show Pyridoxine can help reduce inflammation as well.
B7, aka Biotin: known as the “beauty vitamin”, biotin is credited for keeping hair, skin, and nails healthy. Also, biotin is essential during pregnancy to help normal growth of the baby.
B9, aka Folate: helps prevent depression and memory loss. Again, B9 is important for pregnant women to prevent neurological birth defects.
B12, aka Cobalamin: originating only in animal products, B12 is more common for vegetarians and vegans. Cobalamin produces red blood cells to help iron create hemoglobin, the oxygen carrying protein.
Depending on your diet or health, some of the B vitamins may not as crucial, but taking a Vitamin B Complex ensures you’re getting the nutrients you need!
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