Vitamin B ComplexImage Credit source: Getty Images
Vitamins play different roles in the smooth functioning of our body’s functions. B complex is a whole group, which contains many different elements. There are 8 types found in Vitamin B from B1 to B12. Most people always talk about B12, but all the elements in this group have their own roles. So let us know the names of the vitamins included in B complex and what is their function in the body.
Most of the B complex vitamins are available in vegetarian foods, but some require fortified foods or non-veg and supplements. For now let us know the 8 types of B complex and what is their need.
Vitamin B1
The first vitamin in B complex is B 1. Talking about its scientific name, it is known as Thiamine. This is a vitamin that works to convert the food we eat into energy. Along with this, it helps in keeping our nervous system healthy.
Vitamin B2
The second vitamin in B complex is B2. It is called riboflavin. It helps in digesting proteins, fats and carbohydrates in our body and converts them into energy. Apart from this, it protects our eyes from cataracts and along with keeping the skin glowing, it also prevents pain and swelling in the nerves of the head, thereby protecting you from problems like migraine. This is also an essential vitamin for DNA repair.
Vitamin B3
The third vitamin of B complex is B3 i.e. niacin. It improves our digestive system and skin health. It is helpful in increasing good cholesterol by reducing bad cholesterol. It also protects from skin damage caused by UV rays and is helpful in preventing premature aging. This is also important for your brain and is also helpful in reducing joint pain and swelling.
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Vitamin B5
Fourth of B complex vitamins Has B5 (pantothenic acid). Apart from this, it helps in maintaining hormonal balance and also makes your skin and hair healthy. This vitamin is also helpful in healing acne and wounds and helps in reducing triglyceride levels, which keeps the heart healthy.
Vitamin B6
The fifth vitamin of the B complex is B6 (pyridoxine). Apart from helping in the production of RBC i.e. red blood cells, it is also helpful in the absorption of proteins. From maintaining proper metabolism, it plays an important role in the development of your brain. It helps in the production of hormones like serotonin and dopamine, which improve mood.
Vitamin B7
The sixth vitamin of B complex is B7 i.e. Biotin…Most people know about this also. This is very important to keep your hair and skin as well as nails healthy. Its deficiency causes symptoms ranging from hair fall to red rashes on the skin and nails becoming weak and breaking. This vitamin is necessary for regulating DNA and gene activity.
Vitamin B9
It is said that folate is very important during pregnancy. It is the name of B9 in B complex and it is the 8th type. It is also called folic acid. Apart from helping in the development of the fetus, it also helps in DNA formation and production of red blood cells. It helps in keeping the heart healthy by controlling the level of amino acid called homocysteine in the body.
Also read: To stay healthy in monsoon, know what is right to eat and which foods to avoid.
vitamin b12
The last and 8th vitamin of B complex is B12 i.e. cobalamin which is mostly found in non-veg and is obtained from dairy products. It helps in keeping your nervous system and brain cells healthy. Along with this, it is also necessary for DNA. Along with this, it is also a very important vitamin for hemoglobin production. Its deficiency can cause anemia.
