B-Vitamins

B Vitamins
The B vitamins are a class of 8 different vitamins. Most people are familiar with vitamin B-complex supplements that contain all 8 of the B vitamins. However, each B vitamin has its own distinct function. In fact, some B vitamins have the exact opposite effect in regards to nerve transmission, heart function, blood vessel tone, and a number of other body functions.

The 8 types of vitamin B include:

• thiamin (B1)
• riboflavin (B2)
• niacin (B3)
• pantothenic acid (B5)
• vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
• biotin (B8)
• folate (folic acid) (B9)
• cyanocobalamin (B12)

We can divide B vitamins into two classes based on their function:
 
B1, B5, and B12 promote nerve function, increase vascular tone, increase alkalinity, and help carbohydrate metabolism. Consequently, the following symptoms are often helped by B1, B5 and / or B12:

• lethargy
• low blood pressure
• noise intolerance
• acidosis
• lack of vibration sense
• band-like sensation around head / feels like having a hat on
• burning on soles of feet
• tenderness in calf muscle
• nocturnal urination
• wake up and can’t return to sleep
• back pain at night
• itchiness
• frequent yawning

Conversely, vitamins B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), and B9 (folic acid) act as nerve relaxers, decrease vascular tone, control over-alkalinity, and aid in stomach hydrochloric acid production, thereby aiding in the following: 

• high blood pressure
• tachycardia - fast heart rate
• excessive worry
• alkalosis
• relaxes gallbladder function
• fat metabolism
• restless legs
• limb or body jerks just before sleeping
• cheilosis (cracks / inflammation at corners of mouth opening)
• friable skin while shaving
• red tip of tongue
• purple tongue
• burning eyes
• eye twitching
• sensitivity to light
• blood shot eyes

Functions of B vitamins
There are numerous functions of each individual B vitamin which is beyond the scope of this newsletter. Fundamentally, B vitamins play a crucial role in making red blood cells, forming our genetic blueprint, keeping our nervous system functioning, and helping our bodies use energy from food.
 
Food sources of B vitamins
B vitamins are widely distributed throughout the food supply, so it is advisable to eat a varied, balanced diet that includes foods from all food groups. Folate (B-9) is most abundant in green leafy vegetables, avocado, beetroot, spinach, liver, Brussel sprouts, and asparagus. Folic acid is also added to grain products in many countries. Excellent sources of vitamin B6 include turkey, beef, bananas, chickpeas, pistachios, and potatoes. B12 is found in most animal-derived foods primarily fish, fowl, and meat.
 
A thorough clinical assessment should always precede the prescription of any supplement. Each individual has unique requirements and will respond differently according to the supplement type and brand. To determine which B vitamin may be best for you, it is best to consult with a physician using applied kinesiology.