Vitamin B complex includes eight essential nutrients that are key for maintaining overall health. They are involved in numerous bodily functions, including energy production, brain function, cell metabolism, and red blood cell creation.
**Components of Vitamin B Complex**
1. Thiamine (B1)
2. Riboflavin (B2)
3. Niacin (B3)
4. Pantothenic acid (B5)
5. Pyridoxine (B6)
6. Biotin (B7)
7. Folate (B9)
8. Cobalamin (B12)
These vitamins are not stored in the body for long, necessitating their regular replenishment through diet.
**Health Benefits**
Vitamin B complex promotes energy levels, brain function, and overall health. They aid in metabolism, production of red blood cells, and maintain healthy skin cells. They also play a critical role in fetal brain development during pregnancy.
**Sources of Vitamin B**
Vitamin B is found in foods such as whole grains, legumes, leafy green vegetables, meat, eggs, dairy products, nuts, seeds, and certain fruits.
**Potential Side Effects and Risks**
High doses of certain B vitamins can lead to adverse effects like sensory neuropathy, skin flushing, and liver toxicity. Also, Vitamin B complex supplements may interact with certain medications, altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.