Vitamin-B

Vitamin B Complex 20 x 1ml/Amps £18

Vitamin B1 100mg

Vitamin B2 1mg

Vitamin B12 0.5mg

Historically the B-vitamins were discovered from what was know originally as vitamin B, and hence they were grouped together as B-complex. Although each individual vitamin or related substance performs a different function in the body, they all work together to maintain good health and vitality.

The B-vitamins help to maintain the health of the nerves, skin, eyes, hair, liver, and mouth, as well as healthy muscle tone in the gastroinstestinal tract and proper brain function. B-Complex vitamins are coenzymes involved in energy production, and may be useful in alleviating depression or anxiety. Adequate intake of the B-vitamins is very important for elderly people because these nutrients are not as well absorbed as we age.

The B-complex has a wide range of properties, including:-

B1 (thiamine) - needed for release of energy from carbohydrates; aids in functioning of nervous system; helps maintain stomach acidity and normal appetite. Thiamine enhances circulation and assists in blood formation, carbohydrate metabolism, and the production of hydrochloric acid which is important for proper digestion. Thiamine also optimizes cognitive activity and brain function.

B6 (pyridoxine) - needed for metabolism of protein, hence requirements related to protein intake; helps to maintain fluid balance, a requirement for healthy red blood cells. Pyridoxine is involved in more bodily functions than almost any other single nutrient. It is beneficial against water retention, and is necessary for the production of hydrochioric acid and the absorption of fats and protein. It is required by the nervous system, and is needed for normal brain function and for the synthesis of the nucleic acids RNA and DNA, which contain the genetic instructions for the reproduction of all cells and for normal cellular growth. It activates many enzymes and is important for immune system function and in antibody production.

B12 - needed for red blood cell production and maintenance of protective sheath around nerves. Vitamin B12 is needed to prevent anemia; it aids folic acid in regulating the formation of red blood cells, and helps in the utilization of iron. This vitamin is also required for proper digestion, aids in cell formation, helps prevent nerve damage, and promotes normal growth and development by maintaining the fatty sheaths that cover and protect nerve endings. B12 is linked to the production of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that assists memory and learning.

Folic acid - Essential for growth and reproduction of cells, particularly red blood cells. Considered a 'brain food', folic acid, is needed for energy production and the formation of red blood cells. Folic acid is very important during pregnancy. It helps to regulate embryonic and fetal nerve cell formation, which is vital for normal development. It also strengthens immunity, and may also help depression and anxiety. Biotin - involved in carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism. Required for healthy skin and hair. Biotin aids in cell growth and in fatty acid production. Sufficient quantities are needed for healthy hair and skin, and may prevent hair loss. Deficiency can cause fatigue, anxiety and poor hair and nail condition.

Treatment & Prevention. A well-balanced diet should provide us with all the B-vitamins that we require, but because they are water-soluble and therefore not retained by the body, we need a daily dietary source.