WHAT IS VITAMIN B GOOD FOR?
Good nutrition leads to good health, as well as good preventive self-care. Getting the recommended amounts of daily vitamins is an important part of the nutrition equation and lately Vitamin B is receiving a lot of attention. Taking preventative measures to ensure that our bodies are at it’s optimal and as healthy as can be is extremely important. The Vitamin B complex, made up of eight B vitamins — B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9, B12 — are vital in managing our bodies like well-oiled machines.
What does Vitamin B do?
The essential nutrients that Vitamin B provides us can help convert our food into fuel more efficiently, thus promoting a healthier metabolism. This can enable us to stay energized throughout the day. All vitamins work in tandem with other nutrient-rich foods and supplements we ingest, but each specific vitamin also has its own specific benefits.
What are the health benefits of Vitamin B?
Each B Vitamin may serve a specific purpose to certain bodily functions:
B1 (Thiamine) helps convert carbohydrates from food to fuel and is essential for brain health, muscle development and the growth and function of cells in the body
B2 (Riboflavin) helps with red blood cell production and growth
B3 (Niacin) aids the body in repairing cells and DNA and is needed for the production of hormones
B5 (Pantothenic acid) breaks down the production of stress hormones in the adrenal glands
B6 (Pyridoxine) helps the body to store protein and carbohydrates from food
B7 (Biotin) is needed to make fatty acids and promotes bone health
B9 (Folic acid) helps to make and maintain DNA
B12 (Cobalamin) maintains the health of the central nervous system and red blood cells
Despite B Vitamins having a primary role in converting food into fuel, studies have shown that B Vitamins can also improve including anxiety, depression, heart disease, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). In short, most women take a vitamin B complex to increase energy, enhance mood, improve memory and stimulate the immune system.
B Vitamins are also well known for supporting healthy hair, skin and nails too – so as well as making you feel great, they’ll also help you look good too!
Hair
Vitamin B aids in the quicker metabolism of food sources that provide nutrients to our hair and hair follicles. By supplementing more Vitamin B in our diets means that it can aid in hair growth and well-nourished hair follicle cells. In particular, Vitamin B7 (Biotin) is necessary to maintain the strength and texture of our hair and to prevent hair loss.
Skin
Vitamin B3 is known to help in attaining softer and smoother skin because of its ability to improve the upper-most layer of the epidermis (your skin) to retain moisture. This reduces dryness, prevent fine lines and reduce the effects of ageing –remember, keep in mind the preventative self-care approach! And Vitamin B12 can aid in pigment production for your skin and Vitamin B5 promotes healing of scar tissue.
Nails
In order for nails to grow and be healthy, it will require a well-balanced and nutrient-rich diet. Vitamin B is imperative for nail health. Vitamin B12 helps the body absorb the mineral iron which can prevent nails from being thin or brittle. And Vitamin B9 promotes the development of new cells which is important for the health and growth of nails.
I don’t know about you, but when I look good I feel amazing! And let’s be real, who doesn’t want healthy hair, skin and nails?
Both the Whey and Vegan Free Soul Protein Blends contain a great B Vitamin Complex. Click on the link below to get yours now!
**At Free Soul, your wellbeing is our priority, and although we pride ourselves on our expertise in women's health and wellbeing, it is important to acknowledge the individuality of each person. Features published by Free Soul are not intended to treat, diagnose, cure or prevent any disease, or replace the advice of your GP. We always recommend consulting with a healthcare provider if you encounter any health concerns, and we’ll always be here to support you so you’re never alone on your journey.