The
whole B complex vitamins are vital for
robust health, especially folic acid
and vitamin B12. The B vitamins work
together as a team, which is why it
is generally recommended to take a supplement
with the whole vitamin B-complex family,
rather than isolated B vitamins.
Even
if you could eat large amounts of foods
rich in B vitamins, such as fruits,
vegetables and grains, you would still
typically fall short of the desired
daily intake of B vitamins. Why? Research
shows that the nutrient content of our
food has been drastically decreased
due to poor soil health and extensive
pesticide use in the U.S.
These
are not synthetic B vitamins like about
99% of those on the market today. Synthetic
B vitamins are chemically synthesized
molecules manufactured in a test tube,
typically from coal tar derivatives.
These synthetic molecules mimic only
one component of the multitude of life-supporting
nutrient complexes found in real, natural
B vitamins.
Folic
Acid - Prevents neural tube defects
in infants and adequate levels have
been associated with lower levels of
homocysteine in the blood (a risk factor
for serious heart and immune concerns).
Vitamin
B12 - Plays a key role in the body
and is also associated with lower levels
of homocysteine in the blood. It is
required for energy production and overall
health of the body, including red blood
cell formation. Other roles of B12 include
proper nervous system development and
prevention of infertility in men. It
has also been shown to improve memory
and promote heart health. Research has
shown that vitamin B12 levels decline
as we age.
Vitamin
B6 Like folate and B1, vitamin
B6 has also been associated with lower
levels of homocysteine. In addition,
vitamin B6 is well known in this computer
age for its role in relieving carpal
tunnel syndrome. In their book, Vitamin
B6 Therapy, John Marion Ellis, M.D.,
and Jean Pamplin explain how insulin
resistance (elevated blood-glucose levels
now at crisis proportions in the U.S.
due to eating refined sugar and grains)
causes reduced blood levels of B6 which
then lowers both pancreatic and circulating
insulin levels.
Vitamin
B5 Best known as pantothenic acid,
vitamin B5 has long been considered
the anti-stress vitamin for its role
in helping to balance adrenal gland
function and hence help us cope with
stress better. In his book, The Vitamin
Revolution, Michael Janson, M.D., says
that insufficient amounts of pantothenic
acid can lead to fatigue, mood imbalances
and sleep concerns.
Vitamin
B3 Helps improve blood circulation
by dilating arteries especially important
in the extremities and brain. This vitamin
is a key factor in metabolizing carbohydrates,
boosting energy and maintaining a healthy
brain and nervous system.
Vitamin
B2 Important in the metabolism
of carbohydrates, fat and protein and
therefore, in creating energy. B2 also
supports eye and skin health.
Vitamin
B1 Also essential for metabolizing
carbohydrates, fat and protein and
thus boosting energy. It supports the
nervous system and healthy emotional
balance. Insufficient Vitamin B1 can
create a loss of appetite, memory and
mood imbalances and sluggish thinking.
Many studies show that B1 enhances the
ability to learn and retain knowledge.
Inositol
Involved in immunity, liver function
and cell membrane health. It promotes
healthy liver metabolism, skin health
and heart function, according to Dr.
Berkson, author of All About B Vitamins.
Inositol has been used by healthcare
practitioners for severe mental imbalances.
Choline
- In 1998, for the first time, choline
was classified as an essential B vitamin.
Among many roles that it plays, choline
is important for liver function, heart
health, achieving optimal physical performance
and healthy memory and mental balance.
Biotin
Its roles include breaking down fats
and creating new ones, constructing
proteins from amino acids, and helping
to manufacture various building blocks
of genes.
