B Complex Vitamin Benefits

The group of B vitamins - thiamine (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2), niacin (vitamin B3), pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), pyridoxine (vitamin B6), biotin (vitamin H or B7), folic acid (vitamin B9) and the cobalamins (vitamin B12) is termed as vitamin B complex. These are water soluble vitamins. The numerous benefits of vitamin B complex are due to the fact that each of these vitamins has its own unique function in the body. For example, vitamins B1, B2 and B3 together with biotin, are responsible for producing energy required by the body. Amino acid metabolism is essential for the body and this is taken care of by vitamin B6. Cell division is another operation of the human body. This is achieved by vitamin B12 and folic acid. Apart from these basic functions, all these vitamins also perform other additional tasks in the body, that adds to the vitamin B complex benefits. Here is a list of B complex vitamin benefits and the reasons as to why you should get plenty of this vitamin in your diet.

Benefits of Taking Vitamin B Complex

Energy for the Body
Vitamin B complex is necessary for the breaking down of carbohydrates into glucose. This process is responsible for producing energy for the body. As already mentioned earlier, the vitamins B1, B2, B3 and biotin work together in the process of energy production. So a vitamin deficiency of any of these vitamins may result in extreme fatigue and lack of vitality in the body.

Vitamin B Complex for a Healthy Nervous System
Vitamin B complex aids in the breaking down of fats and proteins and this helps in maintaining the proper function of the nervous system of the body. Vitamin B5 is known to help in the functioning of adrenal glands. Functions of adrenal glands impact our development and growth, help regulate kidney function and help us deal with stress. This vitamin is also required in the production of certain hormones and nerve regulating substances. The entire function of the nervous system which also includes the brain, is regulated by vitamins B1, B6 and B12. Expecting mothers should include adequate quantities of vitamin B9. It prevents neural tube defects in the fetus during pregnancy. A deficiency of these vitamins may lead to developing stress, anxiousness and depression.

Healthy Digestion
As all B complex vitamins are water soluble, they help in proper digestion and production of hydrochloric acid (HCL). This acid breaks down fats, proteins and carbohydrates. Vitamins B1, B2, B3 and B6 are particularly essential in maintaining proper digestion in the body. Deficiency of these types of vitamins may lead to severe digestion problems.

Vitamin B Complex Benefits for Memory
Among the many health benefits of vitamin B complex, an important benefit is increased level of memory and concentration. It has been found mostly in the elderly people that intake of vitamin B complex improves memory and stabilizes mood as well.

Benefits of Vitamin B Complex for Healthy Skin, Hair and Nails
Vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B5, vitamin B9, vitamin B12, biotin and choline are needed for healthy growth of skin, hair and nails. Proper amount of these B complex vitamins is vital for a glowing and clear skin, youthful features and delaying the graying of hair. Healthy skin, hair and nails depend upon correct RNA (Ribonucleic acid ) and DNA (Deoxyribonucleic acid) synthesis and cell reproduction. Skin disorders like dermatitis, greasy skin, dandruff, scaly lips, dry skin, gray hair and poor hair growth results from deficiencies of these vitamins. Other common disorders include premature wrinkles, acne, rashes, splitting nails and skin irritation.

Vitamin B Complex Benefits for Expecting Mothers
Folic acid also known as vitamin B9 or folacin plays a vital role during pregnancy. Nursing and pregnant mothers are required to consume about 400 mg of folic acid on a daily basis. This helps in the healthy growth of infants. Vitamin deficiency of folic acid or vitamin B9 leads to impaired growth of babies and learning disabilities.

As we can see, B complex vitamin benefits are many and deficiencies of any of the vitamins may lead to acute health disorders. Food sources rich in vitamin B complex are bananas, potatoes, tempeh, lentils, other whole grains, chili peppers, green vegetables, eggs, dairy products, and meats including turkey, tuna, liver, etc. The benefits of vitamin B complex that have been described above are the simplified versions of the functions and working of all the individual B complex vitamins. Vitamin B complex benefits for the body can be ensured by its daily consumption in the form of foods or vitamin supplements.