Before research and resources became widely accessible to everyone, vitamin B was thought to be a single nutrient. However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. Extracts of vitamin B actually contain eight different vitamins, as to which make up the ‘vitamin B complex’.
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What Is The Vitamin B Complex?
The vitamin B complex is a term used to describe the eight B vitamins. Each vitamin in this complex has it’s very own structure and performs different functions in the body. Let’s take a closer look at the vitamins found in the vitamin B complex:
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
Vitamin B1 also goes by the name of Thiamine. It contributes towards the functioning of your nervous system and also helps the body to release nutrients from food. You can find plenty of vitamin B1 in fresh fruits and vegetables.
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) contributes towards the release of energy from food. It is also commonly found in many beauty supplements, as it contributes towards keeping your skin, nails, hair and teeth healthy. You can mostly find vitamin B2 in dairy products, like milk and eggs.
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
Vitamin B3 goes by the name of Niacin. It is necessary for general health and vitality and can be found in meat, fish and eggs.
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Vitamin B5 most commonly goes by the name of Pantothenic Acid. It is found in many vegetables and is known for supporting a healthy hormone balance. It also contributes towards the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, among many other key roles.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Another vitamin that is necessary for energy and general vitality is vitamin B6. Also known as Pyridoxine, this vitamin can be found in some fish, peanuts, oats, bananas and milk.
Vitamin B7 (Biotin)
Vitamin B7 is another B vitamin found in many beauty supplements. This is because vitamin B7 (also called Biotin) is necessary for health teeth, bones, hair, skin and nails. Your body produces small amounts of Biotin already, so there’s no guidance on sourcing it through foods.
Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)
You’re probably familiar with the term Folic Acid – but did you know that this is actually vitamin B9? Folic acid contributes to normal cell division and also helps to maintain cognitive performance. You can find it in many leafy green vegetables.
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin)
Vitamin B12 is another essential nutrient in the B complex. It can be found in most meat and dairy products. Vitamin B12 helps to maintain the nerve system and cognitive performance. It also contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.
What Are B Complex Supplements?
Now that you know what the B complex is, it might be easier to understand what vitamin B supplements are. Also referred to as B complex supplements, vitamin B supplements contain all eight of the essential B vitamins. This means that, when you take one, you’re giving your body exactly what it needs. This is particularly ideal for those that follow a vegan diet, as a lot of B vitamins are found in animal products.