If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission. Each of these essential vitamins contributes to your overall bodily function. Read on to learn more about how these nutrients benefit you, how much you need, whether you should take supplements, and more. B vitamins play a vital role in maintaining good health and well-being. As the building blocks of a healthy body, B vitamins have a direct impact on your energy levels, brain function, and cell metabolism.
B vitamins are especially important for women who are pregnant and breastfeeding. These vitamins aid in fetal brain development as well as reduce the risk of birth defects. And for expectant mothers, B vitamins may boost energy levels, ease nausea, and lower the risk of developing preeclampsia.
B vitamins are thought to increase testosterone levels in men, which naturally decrease with age. They may also help men build muscle and increase strength. However, human studies confirming these claims are lacking.
The recommended daily amount of each B vitamin varies. Older adults and women who are pregnant require higher amounts of B vitamins. Your doctor can provide dosage information tailored to your individual needs. Certain underlying health conditions can prevent your body from properly absorbing vitamin B.
You should also talk to your doctor about your vitamin B intake if you have:. Most people get enough B vitamins by eating a balanced diet. Your doctor can make a diagnosis and advise you on any next steps. Vitamin B deficiency, in particular, may increase your risk of neuropsychiatric disorders. Researchers are also investigating its role in hyperhomocysteinemia and atherosclerosis. Babies born to women who were deficient in folic acid during pregnancy are more likely to have birth defects.
Lots of foods contain B vitamins, which makes it easy to get enough from your diet. If your doctor has recommended that you increase your intake of a specific B vitamin, check out these curated food lists:. Most people get enough B vitamins through their diet.
Your diet is also the best way for your body to get these vitamins. Food and Drug Administration, so you should only buy from a trusted, reputable brand. See, Play and Learn No links available. Research Clinical Trials Journal Articles. Resources Find an Expert. For You Patient Handouts. The B vitamins are B1 thiamine B2 riboflavin B3 niacin B5 pantothenic acid B6 B7 biotin B12 Folic acid These vitamins help the process your body uses to get or make energy from the food you eat.
Start Here. Diagnosis and Tests. Related Issues. Vitamin B6 Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin found naturally in many foods, as well as added to foods and supplements. Vitamin B12 Vitamin B12, or cobalamin, is naturally found in animal foods. It can also be added to foods or supplements.
Vitamin B12 is needed to form red blood cells and DNA. It is also a key player in the function and development of brain and nerve cells. Join us Nov. RT HarvardChanSPH : "One way for people to make healthier choices is for the institutions that provide free food to improve the nutritional….
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