B-Complex Vitamins

are Vital to our Well-Being

B-Complex Vitamins are all the water-soluble vitamins except Vitamin C. By B-Complex, we refer to thiamine (Vitamin B1), riboflavin (Vitamin B2), niacin (Vitamin B3), pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5), pyridoxine (Vitamin B6), biotin, folic acid, and Vitamin B12. When you take a B-Complex supplement, you are taking all of these in one dose. Don’t be worried that you’ll get too much; in this case, the excess is excreted in the urine.

We must have B Vitamins because they support our rates of metabolism. They are also necessary to healthy skin and muscle tone. Besides, they strengthen our immune and nervous systems and promote cell growth and division. They play a role in preventing anemia. If we don’t get them from our diets, we must supplement.

Vitamin B deficiency can lead to a wide variety of conditions, symptoms, and illnesses, none of them very pleasant. For example, a deficiency of B1 can bring on beriberi, a disease of the nervous system that can lead to heart failure and death in advanced cases. A B2 deficiency can cause ariboflavinosis with symptoms such as the following: cracks in the lips, extreme sensitivity to sunlight, pseudo syphilis, and seborrheic dermatitis. A deficiency of B3 (niacin) can lead to dementia and death.

Conditions B-Complex Is Used to Treat

? Healing Wounds

Vitamin B1, B5, and others play a role in the healing of wounds. Human research is not yet adequate to make this a sure bet, but your doctor may recommend a B-Complex supplement to promote the healing of a wound.

? Vitiligo

This chronic disorder causes areas of the skin to lose pigmentation. The cause is not yet known, but B-complex vitamins sometimes repigment the skin that has been affected by vitiligo.

? Attention Deficit–Hyperactivity Disorder

Used in large doses, B-Complex has relieved symptoms in some cases although the results are mixed.

? Osteoporosis

A trial involving postmenopausal women who were administered hormone replacement therapy plus B-Complex along with other nutrients shows an 11% increase in bone density.

? Tardive Dyskinesia

This incurable, often fatal form of dyskinesia (involuntary, repetitive movements) has been shown in some studies to be prevented from developing by B-Complex vitamins taken along with other nutrients.

? Hives

This distressing condition responded positively in one study to a B-Complex supplement taken with a hydrochloric acid supplement.

? Premenstrual Syndrome

B-Vitamin deficiencies may be one cause for PMS; some women seem to benefit from taking B-Complex supplements for relief.

? Acne Rosacea

Relationship is unclear here, but one study found that it caused symptoms resembling rosacea. However, some studies have found possible benefits. The story is still out on this one.

? Alcohol Withdrawal

There is some research that indicates that B-Complex may reduce the craving for alcohol. Animals crave alcohol when their diets are deficient in B-Complex vitamins.

? Canker Sores

Recurrent canker sores may be the result of a B vitamin deficiency. B-Complex supplements have been shown to bring relief.

Conclusion:

It’s extremely important that we manage our Vitamin B levels. Check with your doctor about how you measure up and ask about supplements.