Article written by: Luke Crissman / Daniel Cabello
✨ Why Are B-Complex Vitamins Important?
B vitamins are essential, water-soluble nutrients that must be replenished daily through diet or supplements. They play a crucial role in neurological health 🧠, RNA and DNA synthesis, and mitochondrial metabolism of amino acids, glucose, and fatty acids. Deficiencies can lead to various health concerns, making consistent intake essential.
🌟 Key Benefits of B Vitamins
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🧠 Thiamine (B1): Supports acetylcholine production, crucial for nerve function.
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💊 Riboflavin (B2): Aids in synthesizing niacin, folic acid, and B6.
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🩸 Niacin (B3): Essential for DNA repair and cholesterol synthesis.
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💪 Pantothenic Acid (B5): May aid in wound healing, triglyceride reduction, and rheumatoid arthritis symptom relief.
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😊 Pyridoxine (B6): Helps combat anemia, cognitive impairment, and depression.
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💅 Biotin (B7): Strengthens hair, skin, and nails, and may help treat brittle hair.
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🤰 Folic Acid (B9): Supports fetal brain and spinal cord development during pregnancy.
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🩹 Cobalamins (B12): Keeps nerve cells healthy and aids red blood cell production.
⚠️ Possible Side Effects of Excess Intake
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😖 B1 (Thiamine): May cause an upset stomach.
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💛 B2 (Riboflavin): Can turn urine bright yellow.
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🔥 B3 (Niacin): High doses can lead to flushing, liver damage, and low blood pressure.
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🤢 B5 (Pantothenic Acid): Excessive intake may cause nausea and diarrhea.
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🦶 B6 (Pyridoxine): High levels can result in peripheral neuropathy (numbness in hands and feet).
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🩺 B7 (Biotin): Can interfere with lab tests for thyroid and heart function.
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⚠️ B9 (Folic Acid): High doses may mask a B12 deficiency, leading to nerve damage.
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❓ B12 (Cobalamins): No proven adverse effects at high doses.
📏 Recommended Daily Intake
For Women:
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B1: 1.1 mg | B2: 1.1 mg | B3: 14 mg | B5: 5 mg | B6: 1.3 mg
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B7: 30 mcg | B9: 400 mcg | B12: 2.4 mcg
For Men:
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B1: 1.2 mg | B2: 1.3 mg | B3: 16 mg | B5: 5 mg | B6: 1.3 mg
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B7: 30 mcg | B9: 400 mcg | B12: 2.4 mcg
🥦 Get Your Daily B-Vitamin Boost!
Incorporate animal proteins, leafy greens 🥬, dairy 🥛, and beans 🫘 into your diet to maintain optimal B-vitamin levels. If needed, consider supplements to ensure your body gets what it needs to thrive!
📚 Sources:
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Vitamin B Complex Side Effects From Supplements
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Vitamin B Complex: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage, Foods, and More
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Vitamin B Complex: Health Benefits, Risk, and Dosage Guidelines