B-complex vitamins refer to a variety of essential water-soluble vitamins that include thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, biotin, folic acid and cobalamins. These vitamins perform different functions in the body, including energy production, facilitation of cell division and amino acid metabolism. B-complex vitamins are not manufactured by the body. Since each person's need for vitamins is different, it is best to have a doctor determine B-complex requirements.
Wound Healing
Thiamine, or vitamin B1, and pantothenic acid, or vitamin B5, help wounds heal faster. Some health care practitioners recommend B-complex vitamin supplements to promote wound healing, together with vitamins A, C and E, which offer benefits for burn victims and those who have undergone surgery or had other surface wounds. Doctors recommend that high-potency B-complex vitamins be taken with food.
Gout, Hypoadrenalism, Hyperadrenalism
Not all the vitamins included in the B-complex group are necessary. If you suffer from gout, you will need more pantothenic acid. However, you will not require too much lecithin, which is used in conjunction with niacin, or vitamin B3, which is necessary for the treatment of high cholesterol levels. If you suffer from Addison's disease, or hypoadrenalism, you will be prescribed more vitamin B1 and choline due to their sodium-rising properties. If you have Cushing's disease, or hyperadrenalism, you will need more vitamin B2 and folic acid as these two lower sodium levels.
Skin, Nails, Hair
Those with brittle, thin or splitting nails will improve the condition by taking biotin, or vitamin B7. This B-complex vitamin is also efficient in making hair stronger and healthier. Vitamin B2, or riboflavin, also contributes to nail and hair growth. Niacin, or vitamin B3, is essential in helping cell regeneration, energy release and the proper metabolism of fat proteins and carbohydrates, as well as improved circulation and healthier skin. A deficiency in vitamin B3 can cause pellagra, a disease with complications such as dermatitis, canker sores, diarrhea, depression, fatigue, insomnia and headaches.
Prevention
The B-complex vitamins are immune-system boosters to help prevent a variety of diseases and treat existing conditions. For boosting the immune system, vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is recommended while folic acid, or vitamin B9, is prescribed for pregnant women to ensure the healthy growth of the fetus. Folic acid is also recommended to reduce the risk of heart disease and colon cancer. Vitamin B12 is prescribed to lower the risk of breast cancer and for treatment of pernicious anemia. Consult your doctor to determine the most beneficial B-complex vitamins.
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