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Vitamin B complex is a group of organic compounds consisting of 8 water soluble vitamins. They are not related to each other chemically, but are grouped together because all of them function in the cells as coenzymes. The important members of Vitamin B complex group are Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Pyridoxine, Pantothenic acid, Biotin, Folic acid and Vitamin B12. Conventionally, a few more members such as Choline, Inositol, Lipoic acid and Para-amino- benzoic acid (PABA) are also included in this group. The last for items, although having important functions inside the body are available in plenty and therefore cannot be considered as vitamins in the true sense.
Thiamin is a cofactor in oxidative decarboxylation of alpha keto acids and of transketolase in the pentose phosphate pathway. Riboflavin and niacin are important cofactors in oxido-reduction reactions, respectively present in flavoprotein enzymes and in NEDP. Vitamin B12 and folic acid take part in providing replications for DNA synthesis and are used in the treatment of the deficiency resulting in megaloblastic anemia. Vitamin B complex is a popular dietary supplement that is given to people suffering from stress related disorders, anemia, fatigue, mal- absorption etc. It is widely available in the form of capsules as well as injections.
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) – It is essential for the utilization of carbohydrates. Thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP), the coenzyme of co- carboxylase plays a vital part in activating transketolase, an enzyme involve in the direct oxidative pathway for glucose. Food sources rich in thiamine are whole grain cereals, wheat, grams, yeast, pulses, oil seeds and nuts. It is also found in meat, fish, eggs, mutton and lever. Deficiency may result in beriberi and Wernick’s encephalopathy.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) - It plays a fundamental role in cellular oxidation. It is a cofactor in a number of enzymes involved with energy metabolism. Food sources rich in riboflavin are milk, eggs, lever, kidney and green leafy vegetables. Deficiency may result in cracks and sores at the corners of the mouth, inflammation of mouth and tongue, eye and skin disorders.
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) – It is essential for the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. It also enables the normal functioning of the skin, intestinal and nervous systems. Foods rich in niacin are liver, kidney, meat, poultry, fish, legumes and grams. Deficiency of the vitamin results in pellagra, fatigue, irritability, depression, dermatitis, low blood sugar, limb pains, weakness, canker sores, loss of appetite etc.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) – It plays an important role in the metabolism of amino acids, fats and carbohydrates. Food sources include milk, liver, meat, egg, fish, cereal, legumes and vegetables. Deficiency results in peripheral neuritis.
Pantothenic acid – It aids in the biosynthesis of corticostisteroids. It is known for its anti stress properties and manufactures antibodies that fight germs in the blood. Food sources consist of eggs, peanuts, whole grains, beans and organ meats.
Folate – It is needed for the normal development of blood cells in the bone marrow. Food sources include eggs, milk, fruits, cereals and green leafy vegetables. Deficiency has been reported in babies, pregnant and nursing mothers leading to birth defects.
Vitamin B12 – It cooperates with folate in the synthesis of DNA. Its deficiency leads to the development of megaloblastosis. Food sources include liver, eggs milk, kidney, fish and cheese. It is not found in vegetable foods and must be supplemented in a complete vegetarian diet.
Vitamin B Complex is a combination of all the above mentioned vitamins working together to enhance the metabolism of fats, proteins, carbohydrates, lipids and amino acids in the body.
They work towards enhancing the body’s immune system, thereby increasing its capacity to fight against disease and infection. Vitamin B Complex plays a significant role in the process of cell growth and cell division. It is required in adequate quantities by the body to facilitate the replication of DNA.
Vitamin B complex is needed for almost every function in the body. It is the max-factor of energy release and helps fight lethargy and fatigue. It is essential for the normal functioning of the nervous system and the adrenal glands. It fights disorders related to stress, depression, exhaustion, anxiety and dementia in the body. It helps eliminate birth defects in the fetus during pregnancy. It aids in good digestion and leads to the production of hydrochloric acid in the digestive tract for the breakdown of fats, proteins and carbohydrates. A deficiency in any of the B vitamins can lead to impaired digestion.
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