Vitamin B complex

The vitamin B complex refers to all of the known essential water-soluble vitamins except for vitamin C. These include thiamine (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2), niacin (vitamin B3), pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), pyridoxine (vitamin B6), biotin, folic acid and the cobalamins (vitamin B12). "Vitamin B" was once thought to be a single nutrient that existed in extracts of rice, liver, or yeast. Researchers later discovered that these extracts contained several vitamins, which were given distinguishing numbers. Unfortunately, this has led to an erroneous belief among non-scientists that these vitamins have a special relationship to each other. Further adding to confusion has been the "unofficial" designation of other substances as members of the B complex, such as choline, inositol, and paraaminobenzoic acid (PABA), even though they are not essential vitamins.

Each member of the B-complex has a unique structure and performs unique functions in the human body. Vitamins B1, B2, B3, and biotin participate in different aspects of energy production; vitamin B6 is essential for amino acid metabolism; and vitamin B12 and folic acid facilitate steps required for cell division. Each of these vitamins has many additional functions. However, contrary to popular belief, no functions require all B-complex vitamins simultaneously.

Human requirements for members of the B-complex vary considerably-from 3 mcg per day for vitamin B12 to 18 mg per day for vitamin B3 in adult males, for example. Therefore, taking equal amounts of each one-as provided in many B-complex supplements - makes little sense. Furthermore, no evidence supports the use of mega doses of B-complex vitamins to combat everyday stress, boost energy, or control food cravings, unless a person has a severe deficiency of one or more of them. Again contrary to popular belief, no evidence indicates that people should take all B vitamins to avoid an imbalance when one or more individual B vitamin is taken for a specific health condition.

Most multiple vitamin/mineral products contain the B-complex along with the rest of the essential vitamins and minerals. Because they are more complete, multiple vitamin/mineral supplements are recommended to improve overall micronutrient intake and prevent deficiencies.

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