Vitamin B Complex Deficiency

Vitamin B complex is a group of eight water-soluble vitamins namely, vitamin B1 (thiamine), vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin B3 (niacin), vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), vitamin B7 (biotin), vitamin B9 (folic acid) and vitamin B12 (cobalamins). Each of these vitamins have different chemical compositions. B complex vitamin benefits are many to state as each vitamin has its own distinguishing character. They work in group as well as individually to help and regulate numerous body functions.

Thiamine, riboflavin, niacin and biotin are the energy boosting vitamins working together to maintain the body energy levels. Benefits of folic acid are numerous as far as pregnancy is concerned. Vitamins are available to human in natural state. Vitamin B rich foods are mainly livers, tuna, turkey, oats, bananas, avocados, potatoes, Brazil nuts, legumes etc. When a person doesn't get enough of vitamin B from natural resources then there are chances for him to develop vitamin deficiencies. Vitamin B complex deficiency can lead to many discomforting effects on the human body.

Vitamin B Complex Deficiency
Vitamin B complex is really important for a healthy lifestyle. Shortage of any single vitamin from this group leads to various medical conditions some of which may turn severe, if not provided proper and early attention. Explained below are the vitamin B complex deficiency symptoms that might appear as a result of deficiency of any of the eight vitamins from the group vitamin B.

Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Vitamin B1 contributes to the healthy growth of the body and proper functioning of the entire nervous system. Vitamin B1 also helps to regulate metabolism and the digestive system. Deficiency of thiamine can result into fatigue, tiredness, irritability, stomach upset, insomnia and memory lapses or amnesia. Foods rich in vitamin B1 are pork, liver, wheat germ, whole grains and dried beans.

Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Vitamin B2 performs the important function of processing fats and amino acids from the body. Vitamin B2 also activates the functions of folic acid and vitamin B6. Deficiency of riboflavin can result into depression and also some complications may appear in women taking oral hormonal contraceptives and pregnant women, especially those who are in their second trimester of pregnancy. Foods rich in vitamin B2 are all the dairy products, leafy green vegetables and whole grains.

Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
Vitamin B3 improves blood circulation and lowers the cholesterol level of the blood. It also repairs the nervous as well as digestive system and maintains the tone of the skin. Deficiency of vitamin B3 may result into dementia, depression, psychosis, agitation, anxiety and mental fatigue. Foods rich in vitamin B3 are poultry, fish, meat, whole grains, nuts and beans.

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid)
Vitamin B5 protects the body from mental as well as physical stresses, it increases vitality and also works as an anti-aging vitamin. Deficiency of vitamin B5 may show symptoms like chronic fatigue, hair loss, depression, dizziness, constipation, stomach problems, muscular weakness and irritability. Food rich in vitamin B5 are legumes, lean meats and whole grains.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Vitamin B6 is the most important vitamin that performs the important function of processing amino acids which is the best source of energy. Vitamin B6 transfers the nutrients into body energy. Deficiency of vitamin B6 may show symptoms like eczema, insomnia, migraine, irritability, nervousness, fatigue and headaches. Foods rich in vitamin B6 are lean meats, whole grains, fish and poultry products.

Vitamin B7 (Biotin)
Vitamin B7 helps the utilization of folic acids, proteins and vitamin B5. Vitamin B7 is a very important vitamin for haircare. Deficiency of vitamin B7 may show symptoms like fatigue, confusion, depression, drowsiness, hair loss and also hallucinations. Foods rich in vitamin B7 are poultry products, mushrooms, whole grains, green vegetables, salmons and sunflower seeds.

Vitamin B9 (Folic acid)
Folic acid is an important vitamin for pregnant women. It regulates blood pressure and also maintains mental health. Deficiency of vitamin B9 may result in birth defects, stillbirths and premature births, anemia, miscarriages, depression, skin disorders, cancer, infertility and brain functioning. Foods rich in folic acid are whole wheat and grains, green leafy vegetables, beet roots, oranges, and dried beans.

Vitamin B12 (Cobalamins)
Vitamin B12 maintains health of the nervous system and it also helps the formation and regulation of the new blood cells. Vitamin B12 deficiency symptoms include anemia, fatigue, depression and many of the nervous system disorders. Foods rich in vitamin B12 are lean meats, fish, dairy and poultry products.

These were all about vitamin B complex deficiency symptoms. As the research suggests, vitamin B complex is extremely important for human health and well being. There are many vitamin B supplements as well, but it is best to have ample amount of foods rich in vitamin B, that way you can avoid vitamin B complex side effects. Following a healthy diet rich in vitamin B, proper exercise, happy mental status and taking vitamin supplements, if necessary is the key to a healthy body. Take care!