What is B-Complex?
B-Complex is a set of vitamins that are vital to our everyday health, though many do not know what B complex means or what vitamins it contains.
Complex in this case means “composed of 2 or more units” which essentially means that it is a combination of multiple B vitamins in a single tablet or capsule.
Traditionally B-Complex consists of the 8 B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, and B12).
All of these vitamins play an important role in maintaining good health. Because of this, they are often packaged together as a B-Complex supplement.
B vitamins help with alertness, converting food into fuel, and maintaining energy levels. Each B vitamin also has its own benefits individually.
B Vitamin Benefits
B1 (Thiamine) – Helps the body make new healthy cells, protects the immune system and supports nerve health.
B2 (Riboflavin) – B2 is an antioxidant, helps in transporting oxygen through the body and helps with red blood cell production.
B3 (Niacin) – This vitamin has been shown to maintain healthy levels of the good type of cholesterol in the blood.
B5 (Pantothenic Acid) – B5 is used in breaking down fats and carbs for energy, helps maintain healthy hormone levels, and promotes healthy skin.
B6 (Pyridoxine) – Helps maintain heart health, helps maintain a healthy mood and healthy sleep patterns, and supports the body’s natural inflammation response.
B7 (Biotin) – Supports healthy skin, hair and nails. Important during pregnancy for healthy baby growth.
B9 (Folate/Folic Acid) – B9 improves circulation. It can also support healthy memory and mood. Another important vitamin to take during pregnancy.
B12 (Cobalamin or methylcobalamin) – Cobalamin works with many of the other B vitamins to assist them in their jobs. It also works with Iron to help produce hemoglobin, which is in our red blood cells and makes it possible for them to transport oxygen. It is vitally important in maintaining the outer sheathing (protective covering, also called the myelin sheath) that surrounds nerve cells.
As you can see, taking any of these B vitamins or taking a B-Complex can be quite beneficial to your health, wellness and longevity.
