August 29, 2008
Is Your Body Depleted in Vitamin B?
A variety of diseases have roots in a lack of vitamins. A common example of this is Scurvy that once plagued sailors. The disease was caused by a lack of Vitamin C. Thousands of men died from Scurvy before someone discovered that it could be cured simply by consuming foods containing Vitamin C.
What many people don't know is that there are still diseases today that are caused by poor diet. This is admittedly more common in countries where diets don't include enough fresh foods. Poorer countries report higher numbers of nutrition related diseases, but the number is rising in affluent nations, too. The diets of people on the run can be filled with processed, microwavable, and fast food. This can lead to vitamin deficiencies even in those who have plenty of food.
The Vitamin B family, particularly, is easily depleted in the body. Vitamin B is water-soluble, so it is used quickly, and must be renewed regularly, either through food or by taking vitamin supplements.
There are 8 members of the B Vitamin group. Each has its own function, but they work better when taken together. Here's is a description of the 8, including their functions and possible indications of deficiencies.
Vitamin B1 is referred to as thiamine. It helps lift your outlook on life, supports your heart, and assists in the metabolism of carbohydrates. A lack of thiamine can cause emotional problems, reduced sensory perception, weight loss, weakness and pain in the extremities, swelling, and irregular pulse. The worst cases can produce beriberi, permanent psychosis, or heart failure.
Vitamin B2 is referred to as riboflavin. It supports cellular processes, like metabolism of foods and production of red blood cells. A deficit of riboflavin in the body is indicated by cracks in the corners of the mouth, a sore tongue or mouth, swelling of the mucous membranes, or scaly patches of skin on the scalp. There's growing evidence that Vitamin B2 also helps in preventing cataracts and migraines.
Niacin, or Vitamin B3, helps in the release of energy from nutrients. Niacin also supports healthy skin, nerves, and digestive tract. Signals of a niacin lack include digestive problems, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, confusion, or diarrhea. In advanced cases, deficiency can lead to dementia, pellagra, or death.
Vitamin B5 is pantothenic acid. It assists with a healthy nervous system, and also aids in metabolism. Symptoms of a lack of Vitamin B5 may be acne and a prickling of the skin in the hands and feet.
Vitamin B6 is referred to as pyridoxene. Pyridoxene aids in the production of red blood cells, supports an intact immune system, and helps maintain normal nerve function. Deficiencies in pyridoxene show as cracks in the corners of the mouth, skin rashes, water retention and high blood pressure.
Vitamin B7 is also known as biotin. It supports healthy hair and nails, and helps release energy from carbohydrates. Signs of a biotin lack include dry skin, scaly patches on the scalp, fungal infections, brittle hair, hair loss, depression, muscle pains, nausea, vomiting, or anorexia.
Vitamin B9 is referred to as folic acid. It helps with the formation of hemoglobin, and is critically important for expectant mothers. A deficit of folic acid in an expectant mother may cause birth defects in her baby. Indications of folic acid deficiency include anemia, irritability, trouble breathing, fatigue, weight loss, menstrual problems, or leg ulcers.
Vitamin B12 is also known as cobalamin. It's required for a healthy nervous system and the production of red blood cells. A lack can produce anemia, poor memory, and numbness in the extremities. Advanced cases can cause psychosis or paralysis.
To learn more about vitamin deficiencies, visit Vitamins A to K.
Note: You should consult a doctor before taking any medical advice.
