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B-Complex

Clinical Applications/Research

Clinical applications include fatigue, depression, stress, glucose control, skin/hair/eyes/ and mouth problems, anxiety, insomnia, hyperactivity, PMS, menopausal symptoms, alcohol withdrawal, and long-term antibiotic application.

Energy

The B vitamins help give us the energy to function. They are known as the "catalytic spark plugs" of the body; they catalyze many biochemical reactions because of their role as coenzymes. They provide energy by converting carbohydrates into glucose, and they are vital in the metabolism of fats and proteins. They all work synergistically, and are essential cofactors for the reactions which make ATP, which is needed as fuel to drive biochemical reactions. If we run into a deficit of ATP, there is no fuel for simple reactions like muscle contraction and motor activity (walking, running, etc.), and since the brain needs ATP for reactions, a deficit will also cause cognitive and mental acuity problems. The B vitamins are water-soluble (easily eliminated from the body) and must be constantly replenished. Certain B vitamins can be made in the body by bacteria in the large intestine. A refined diet high in sugar, coffee, alcohol and refined flour can deplete the B vitamins, and long-term antibiotic therapy can reduce the population of beneficial bacteria that normally makes B vitamins in the large intestine.

Brain Food

The B vitamins are also important for the synthesis of our brain neurotransmitters, which are chemical signals that our brain uses to carry out physiological functions. The B vitamins are needed, for instance, for the synthesis of the neurotransmitters dopamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin. Dopamine and serotonin are especially related to feelings of contentedness, well-being and satiety. Low levels of serotonin are associated with depression, anxiety, and cravings. Treatment with the B vitamins B-1, B-2, and B-6, in a 4-week randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study resulted in trends of, "greater improvement in scores on ratings of depression and cognitive function," and these findings, "offer preliminary support for further investigation of B-complex vitamin augmentation in the treatment of geriatric depression" (Bell IR et al. J Am Coll Nutr. 1992; 11(2):159-63).

Glands/Organs

The B vitamins are also essential for the proper functioning of the endocrine glands, most notably the adrenals and the thyroid. The adrenals are nicknamed our “antistress glands," and the thyroid is nicknamed the energy gland, as it regulates the basal metabolic rate of almost every cell in the body. The B vitamins are needed for healthy liver functioning, and the liver is one of the highest concentrated areas of B vitamins. The organ we know as the skin depends on B vitamins for its healthy appearance. The Bs are also essential for hair, eyes and mouth; a deficiency of the Bs can manifest in patchy scaly skin around the mouth area. They are also necessary for normal functioning of the nervous system, and essential for maintenance of muscle tone in the gastrointestinal tract.

Glucose Control

Just as the B vitamins are used to make ATP (energy) from glucose, they are involved in every step of glucose metabolism, and are therefore helpful in regulating blood glucose levels.

Disclaimer: The statements above have not been evaluated by the FDA. The nutritional suggestions and research provided are for informational purposes only and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease and should not be used as a substitute for sound medical advice. Please see your health care professional in all matters pertaining to your physical health.

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