B Vitamins: Functions and Food Sources

B vitamins are a group of essential nutrients that play a key role in metabolism, energy production, and overall vitality. They include B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6, B7 (biotin), B9 (folate), and B12.
Category
Supplement
Where to get
Available in a variety of foods such as whole grains, meat, dairy, leafy greens, and fortified cereals. Supplements are also available.
Applicable for
Metabolism | Energy Production | Vitality
Prepared by Nick Harper, reviewed by Dr. David James Simpson

B vitamins FAQ


Image credit: abouthealthsome.blogspot.com

What is the function of B vitamins in the body?

B vitamins are a group of eight essential nutrients that play roles in many organs and bodily systems. They help with various functions, including creating energy from food, producing blood cells, and maintaining healthy skin. In this article, we explore the function of B vitamins in the body and some key dietary sources of each.

How many B vitamins are there?

There are eight B vitamins: Thiamin (B1). Riboflavin (B2). Niacin (B3). Pantothenic acid (B5). Pyridoxine (B6). Biotin (B7). Folate and folic acid (B9). Cobalamin (B12). Fun fact for those of you doing the math: There are no vitamins B4, B8, B10 or B11 — at least not anymore. Over time, those substances were found to not be vitamins at all.

Are B vitamins good for You?

“The main thing that most B vitamins do is help turn our food into energy that your body can use. It helps initiate the processes that turn carbohydrates, fats and proteins into a usable form of energy,” explains registered dietitian Natalie Romito, RDN, LD.

B vitamins References

If you want to know more about B vitamins, consider exploring links below:

What Is B Vitamins

  1. https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/vitamin-b/
  2. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/b-vitamin-benefits
  3. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/vitamin-b-complex
  4. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/B_vitamins
  5. https://www.verywellhealth.com/b-vitamins-8602795

B Vitamins Information

  1. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325292
  2. https://www.hsph.harvard.edu/nutritionsource/vitamins/vitamin-b/
  3. https://medlineplus.gov/bvitamins.html

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