Your nervous system performs three vital functions. It first of all senses information about your body and the environment around it. It will then analyze these data in order to make decisions regarding your body's response to the stimuli. Finally, it will then take the necessary course of action and respond appropriately. Certain vitamins are necessary for the health and proper functioning of your nerves. It is essential to obtain these vitamins either through a healthy diet or a multi-vitamin or supplement.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 or pyridoxine is one of several vitamins necessary for your nerves. Specifically, B6 supports your nervous system function through the synthesis of neurotransmitters, according to MayoClinic.com. Neurotransmitters are chemicals that make it possible for your nerves to perform their functions and communicate. Good dietary sources of B6 include salmon, tomatoes and liver. You should try to get 1.3 mg of this vitamin for adults 19 to 50, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is vital for nerve function, specifically your central nervous system which includes your brain and spinal cord, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. B12 is unique among the B vitamins in that it is not found in vegetables. If you are a vegetarian, you may therefore need a B12 supplement in order to receive the recommended amount of 2.6 mcg daily. Food sources include eggs, cheese and meat. B12 like B6, is a water-soluble vitamin which means you need to receive adequate amounts each day since it is not stored in your body.
Niacin
Niacin helps nerves by supporting proper nervous system function, according to KidsHealth.org. It is also important in energy metabolism which fuels nervous system responses. Insufficient amounts of niacin can cause psychological disturbances. Web MD recommends getting 14 mg of niacin daily for women and 16 mg for men. Meats, peas, and nuts are rich in this essential vitamin.
Vitamin E
Of the vitamins listed, only vitamin E is fat soluble, which means it is stored in your body, specifically in your liver and fat tissue. Vitamin E is important for the proper structure and functioning of your nervous system. Common sources include fresh nuts, green leafy vegetables, and seed oils. The recommended daily about of vitamin E is 400 IU. Use caution when taking vitamin E supplements if you are on a blood thinner or beta-blocker, in case of possible interactions. However, according to a 1981 study published in the journal, Acta Neuropathologica, deficiencies can cause structural damage of nerves. If you are concerned about your vitamin E levels, consult your doctor for additional advice.
References
- Mayo Clinic: Vitamin B6
- National Institutes of Health: Dietary Supplement Fact Sheet: Vitamin B6
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin B12 - Overview
- "Principles of Anatomy and Physiology"; G. Tortora and S. Reynolds Grabowski; 1996
- "Acta Neuropathologica"; Effects of Chronic Vitamin E Deficiency on the Nervous System of the Rat; J. Towfighi; December 1981
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