There are eight main vitamins that make up vitamin B complex. Their common names are vitamins B-1, B-2, B-3, B-5, B-6, B-7, B-9 and B-12. In the same order, their scientific names are thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, biotin, folic acid and cobalamin. B vitamins play an essential role in growth and development, and in how your body functions. Deficiencies in any of the B vitamins can result in health issues that sometimes mimic other diseases.
Neurological Function
Vitamins B-1, B-6 and B-12 are all integral to the development of nerve cells and the protection of nerve health over time. According to MayoClinic.com, even a blood level that is slightly lower than normal can result in unsteady gait, vision problems, dementia, psychosis and mood disturbances which can be reversed with supplementation if caught early enough. An excess in supplementation of vitamin B-6 can result in nerve damage in the arms and legs. The damage is reversible when you reduce the amount of supplementation you are taking.
Blood Cell Manufacture
Folic acid, B-6 and vitamin B1-2 are all necessary for the maturation of red blood cells. A deficiency, especially in vitamin B-12, can result in two different types of anemia: pernicious anemia and megaloblastic anemia. Treatment is the supplementation of vitamin B-12 given either by injection in the muscle, as a nasal spray or by mouth.
Cancer and Birth Defects
If you have a very low intake of folic acid, you are at higher risk for the development of certain types of cancer, according to the American Cancer Society; low levels have been linked with colorectal cancers. Additionally, women who are deficient in folic acid and become pregnant are at greater risk of giving birth to low birth weight, premature, and/or infants with neural tube defects. A diet that is rich in vegetables that contain folic acid is recommended for cancer prevention and for women of child-bearing age. Folic acid is also known as vitamin B-9 and is the synthetic form of folate. It is found in beans, fruits, whole grains and fortified breakfast cereals.
Metabolism
Metabolism is the process by which energy is extracted from consumed food or stored fats and proteins. This is a complex process that requires coenzymes and vitamins for completion. Biotin, also known as vitamin B-7, is required for the metabolism of carbohydrates and fatty acids within the body. Niacin, pantothenic acid, riboflavin and thiamin are also necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats in the body.
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