Importance of B-Vitamin

The B-vitamins is a family of several vitamins. Each individual vitamin is used for a special reason. Most of the B-vitamins are present in common foods.Vitamin B1

Primary function of vitamin B1 (thiamine) is to contribute in production of energy needed by the muscles. It aids in overcoming psychological problems like depression and memory loss.  Thiamine provides protection against cataract in elderly people.

Natural sources of thiamine include seafood, beans, sunflower seeds and pork.

Deficiency of thiamine can lead to neuritis which is characterized by heart failure and neuritis.

Vitamin B2

Also known as riboflavin, this vitamin is essential for increasing efficiency of the cells to utilize oxygen. It is beneficial for growth of hair and nails.

Natural sources of riboflavin are cheese, liver, almonds and green leafy vegetables. The vitamin is needed in more quantities by the body during pregnancy and by people who take antibiotics regularly. It is utilized by the body in more amounts when body is under stress.

Vitamin B3

Niacin boosts circulation and aids in production of sex hormones and cortisone. Natural sources of niacin are pig`s liver, soy flour, peanut butter and potato.

Supplementation of this vitamin is essential during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Deficiency leads to pellagra, loss of appetite and diarrhea.

Vitamin B5

It is better known as the anti-stress hormone. It is required for production of hormones which provide protection against several allergies. It supports functioning of the adrenal gland.

Fresh nuts, wheat germ, pulses and eggs are natural sources of B5.

Deficiency in body will result in early fatigue, numbness, muscles weakness, dizziness and mood swings.

Vitamin B6

The pyridoxine is extremely important in women as it is responsible to balance hormone changes in women. It is also known to boost immunity and provide protection against cancer.

Liver, beans, kidney, walnut, wheat germ and eggs are natural source of pyridoxine.

Deficiency may lead to dermatitis, anemia and asthma.

Folic Acid

It is responsible for stimulating appetite, improving digestion and for production of RBCs.

Deficiency often leads to anemia. A sore tongue may develop. Increased irritability, loss of appetite and ache may develop too.

The amount required by the body increases if one is suffering from psoriasis or is under stress.