Friday, February 22, 2008

The B Group Vitamins (part 2)

Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2, Vitamin B3, Vitamin B5

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is involved in the processing of certain amino acids and in the functioning of the immune system, in the production of antibodies to fight infections. It plays a role in the production of red blood cells and in the processing of carbohydrates and fats. This water soluble vitamin is pervasive in many foods.
Lacking vitamin B6 may affect the development of atherosclerosis and lower immunity.

Vitamin B9

Vitamin B9 (folic acid) is required for the proper functioning of vitamin B12 in the production of red blood cells and processing of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. Good sources of this water soluble vitamin are: liver, kidney, green vegetables, yeast, fruits, dried beans and lentils, grains and untreated wheat seedlings.

The lack of folic acid is widely spread and can cause an anemic fatigue, insomnia, forgetfulness and irritability. Adequate consumption of folic acid is important for women who want to get pregnant, and for a healthy pregnancy.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12 is necessary for the proper functioning of vitamin B9 and important for the production of nucleic acid (genetic material). In addition, this vitamin is important for production of the fatty covering of nervous fibers, without which they would not be able to operate, as well as for the production of red blood cells. Vitamin B12 is involved in the processing of proteins, carbohydrates and fats and in the formation of healthy cells. This water soluble vitamin is found in dairy products, egg yolk, meat, liver, kidney and fish.

Biotin

Biotin (complex of Group B vitamins) - is soluble in water, involved in processing of fats, including the production of glucose in a lack of carbohydrates. It is working in combination (though whatever) with insulin and may be important in treating diabetes. Good sources of biotin - egg yolk, liver, kidney, wheat, oats, yeast and nuts. In addition, biotin is synthesized by the intestine's bacteria.

The lack of biotin in the body of an adult person occurs very rarely, but a shortage of it in infants can cause seboreynoy eczema (seborrhea dermatitis).

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