Making Sure You're Getting Plenty Of B Vitamins
B vitamins are essential for our health, and not having enough in your system can make you feel less than top notch. There are eight B vitamins in all, and each one has a different purpose. Some are for metabolism, and some for mental health; but the fact remains that you must have plenty of B vitamins for your body to function properly. Here we will cover the different varieties of B vitamin, as well as what each does, and how to spot a vitamin deficiency. Understanding what B vitamins do for you, can help you keep your health in great shape.
Eight Degrees Of "B"
B vitamins are a group of eight different water-soluble vitamins that are vital to your health. When all eight varieties are combined into a single supplement, it is generally called "B Complex". Each type of B vitamin plays a different role in maintaining proper health; and each is equally important. The eight varieties of B vitamins, as well as what part of your health they promote, are as follows:
Vitamin B1 - Thiamine - The first of the B vitamins is Thiamine, or B1. Thiamine can be used to regulate your metabolism, as well as to help lower your levels of bad cholesterol. A lack of Thiamine can be indicated by weakness in your arms and legs, as well as by a sudden and marked weight loss.
Vitamin B2 - Riboflavin - The second of the B vitamins is Riboflavin, or B2. Riboflavin helps to promote healthy skin and vision. A Riboflavin deficiency can be recognized by extreme light sensitivity, and dryness of the mouth area.
Vitamin B3 - Niacin - The third in the series of B vitamins is Niacin, otherwise known as Niacin. Niacin has recently been reported to aid in the reduction of bad cholesterol levels. Vitamin B3 deficiency is typically marked by confusion and insomnia.
Vitamin B5 - Pantothenic Acid - The fourth of the B vitamins is Pantothenic Acid, or B5. The most common benefit of Pantothenic Acid is its affect on acne and other dermatological problems. A B5 deficiency can be indicated by severe acne, as well as by numbness in the extremities.
Vitamin B6 - Pyridoxine - Fifth of the B vitamins is Pyridoxine, or as it is more commonly known, B6. Pyridoxine aids in the production of red blood cells, and is vital to cardiovascular health. A lack of B6 in the system is typically indicated by anemia, and even possibly depression.
Vitamin B7 - Biotin - The sixth B vitamins is Biotin, or B7. Biotin is primarily used by the body to strengthen both hair and nails; and can be used to combat hair loss. A lack of Biotin is typically indicated by brittle nails, and can be extremely detrimental to babies.
Vitamin B9 - Folic Acid - If you're a woman, chances are you've already heard of this variety of the B vitamins. Folic acid has long been touted as vital for pregnant women's health. A lack of B9 in pregnant women can lead to infants with low birth weight, as well as possible birth defects.
Vitamin B12 - Cyanocobalamin - A mouthful to say its proper name, let's just call the last of the B vitamins by its common name, B12. B12 is used by the body to promote healthy brain function. A B12 deficiency can lead to severe brain damage. You should make absolutely certain that you are getting enough of this important vitamin in your system.
The B vitamins are all an important part of your health. If you think you may be suffering from a deficiency of B vitamins, you should talk to your doctor immediately.
