Intake of vitamin rich diet is very much important for one to enable the normal functioning of the body. Among the two different types of water soluble vitamins, vitamin B plays a major role in various functional activities either simple or complex. It is considered to, however, affect the major activities or functions of various parts of the body. Here is a list of various types of vitamin B.
- Vitamin B1 also called as thiamin is needed to ensure right function of all the body cells and more prominently the nerve cells. It is considered to maintain the mental health and memory. Deficiency of thiamin results in weight loss, emotional disturbances, and even weakness and pain in limbs.
- Vitamin B2 or riboflavin is the important type of vitamin B that is essential for release of energy from food. The growth and development of the body is, therefore, affected with the deficiency of vitamin B2. Some of the disease conditions that arise due to deficiency of riboflavin include inflammation of tongue, high sensitivity to sunlight and cracks in lips.
- Vitamin B3 also called as niacin is involved in detoxification of chemicals, formation of various hormones, release of energy from food and so on. It is even found to control the cholesterol levels. Deficiency of niacin causes a disease called pellagra which includes aggression, weakness, mental confusion and diarrhea.
- Vitamin B5 or pantothenic acid works in combination with other B vitamins and is involved in metabolism of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. Deficiency of vitamin B5 results in acne, lack of focus, allergies and so on.
- Vitamin B6 or pyridoxine helps in redistribution of amino acids which enhances the formation of various kinds of proteins. Synthesis of different enzymes is possible with the aid of pyridoxine. It even supports helping major neurotransmitters in the production of red blood cells. Deficiency of this vitamin causes anemia, depression and high blood pressure.
- Vitamin B7 or biotin involves in breakdown of carbohydrates, fats and proteins. It is even found to aid various other functions. Biotin deficiency leads to impaired growth and neurological disorders in infants.
- Vitamin B9 or folic acid is essential to aid cell growth and division. Deficiency of folic acid during pregnancy can lead to birth defects.
- Vitamin B12 or cobalamin aids in production of red blood cells, brain cells and genetic material or DNA. It is even involved in metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Lack of required amounts of cobalamin affects the blood levels and results in anemia.
All these different kinds of vitamin B are necessary for the overall growth, development and maintenance of the body.