B Complex Vitamin: Cardiovascular and Nervous System Support

Theresa Groskopp

Vitamin-B-Complex-B6-B9-B12B vitamins have a well-deserved reputation for offering energy and vitality. They play a necessary role in cell metabolism and the production of red blood cells. Without B vitamins, the body wouldn't be able to perform many of its necessary functions. B vitamins serve a wide range of purposes in the body, such as supporting the circulatory system, nervous system, and integumentary system. Vitamin B6, for instance, promotes healthy circulation by helping synthesize hemoglobin. Vitamin B1 supports the nervous system by aiding in nerve function, while Vitamin B12 is essential for developing sheathing around nerves. A deficiency in Vitamins B2 and B5 can lead to skin irritations. Several B vitamins are especially well-researched and popular in and of themselves. Vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 are often taken in combination due to their essential support for the circulatory and nervous system. A B complex vitamin such as Benfotiamine takes advantage of a fat-solubility nature which allows vitamin B1 (Thiamine) to stay in the bloodstream longer. B vitamins come in a wide range of forms making helpful to become familiar with the properties of each of these important nutrients.

Vitamins B6, B12 and Folic Acid

Vitamin B6 supports the nervous system by helping to create serotonin and norepinephrine, which are key signal transmitters to the brain. When a deficiency in vitamin B6 occurs the skin, mucous membranes and the circulatory system may be adversely affected. Mild deficiencies are common, but thankfully the body can take in vitamin B6 through foods such as cereal grains, certain vegetables, and some dairy, which may help to fill nutritional gaps as they occur. Vitamin 12 is a necessary nutrient for proper red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. The groups most at risk for a vitamin B12 deficiency include the elderly and people with gastrointestinal disorders. Individuals with a vegetarian or vegan diet are also at risk because they restrict foods such as dairy and meat that naturally contain high levels of vitamin B12. Only when the body is equipped with the proper amount of vitamin B12 can it hope to maintain healthy energy levels, cardiovascular health, and cognitive function. Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) is also necessary for proper brain function, and plays an important role in cognitive well-being. This vitamin is especially important during stages of growth, such as infancy, adolescence, and pregnancy. A deficiency in Folic Acid is unfortunately relatively common. A supplement which combines vitamin B9 with vitamins B6 and B12 may provide optimal support when taken together as each plays a role in the regulation of the amino acid homocysteine found in the blood. Vitamin B6, B12 Plus Folic Acid is one example of a B complex vitamin that combines the properties of these three nutrients.

Benfotiamine, a Synthetic B1 vitamin

Included in the B complex vitamin family are synthetic vitamins such as Benfotiamine. What is Benfotiamine? It is a lab-constructed form of vitamin B1 (Thiamine). Benfotiamine differs from Thiamine in molecular structure to make it fat-soluble, which differs from the water-soluble nature of natural B vitamins. Some studies conclude that Benfotiamine is more suitable for therapeutic purposes because it stays in the bloodstream longer. Like several other B vitamins, Benfotiamine provides support for the circulatory system in several ways. Benfotiamine may support blood sugar levels already within the normal range, as well as promote the synthesis of insulin in the pancreas. Benfotiamine may also promote glucose metabolism in cells in the body. The synthetic B1 vitamin plays the role of transketolase activator, meaning the supplement might support the production and normal function of red cells in a healthy cardiovascular system. Vitamin B Complex with Benfotiamine is one example of a supplement which combines the properties of Benfotiamine with other B-complex vitamins. A high daily value percent of vitamins B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin), B6 (Pyridoxine), B9 (Folate), B12 (Cobalamin), B7 (Biotin) and B5 (Pantothenic Acid), as well as 150 mg of Benfotiamine are included. Given that B vitamins are essential for various functions of the body such as the nervous and circulatory systems, a vitamin B complex may be a good option for you to maintain proper vitamin levels in your body.
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About the Author

Theresa Groskopp

Certified Nutritionist in Appleton, Wisconsin,Founder of Natural Healthy Concepts. Natural health and nutrition advocate. Enjoys gardening, biking, fitness, boating, animals (especially cats), and cooking.

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