|
Vitamin B-Complex refers to all of the known essential water-soluble vitamins except for vitamin C. These include thiamine (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2), niacin (vitamin B3), pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), pyridoxine (vitamin B6), biotin, folic acid and cobalamine (vitamin B12). “Vitamin B” was once thought to be a single nutrient that existed in extracts of rice, liver, or yeast. Researchers later discovered these extracts contained several vitamins, which were given distinguishing numbers.
Each member of the B-complex has a unique structure and performs unique functions in the human body. Vitamins B1, B2, B3, and biotin participate in different aspects of energy production, vitamin B6 is essential for amino acid metabolism, and vitamin B12 and folic acid are essential for proper cell division. Each of these vitamins has many additional functions:
- To combat the effects of stress
- To support energy production, carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism within the body
- To support athletic performance
- To supplement an inadequate diet and resolve B vitamin deficiencies
So why would anyone want to take Vitramin B-Complex? Well, considering the information below, why wouldn't you... ?
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) is needed to process amino acids and fats, activate vitamin B6 and folic acid, and help convert carbohydrates into energy. It may also act as an antioxidant. Vitamin B2 deficiency can occur in alcoholics and vegans, and is more likely in people with cataracts or sickle cell anaemia. Symptoms of vitamin B2 deficiency include cracking of lips and corner of the mouth, swollen, inflamed tongue, visual disturbances such as sensitivity to light, cataract formation, anaemia, and dermatitis.
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) is essential for energy production and is needed to make neurotransmitters and activate the adrenal glands in times of stress. It is also essential in producing, transporting, and releasing energy from fats. It is required in the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, sex hormones, bile, phospholipids, red blood cells, hormones, and neurotransmitters. Human studies have shown that a deficiency of vitamin B5 results in fatigue, depression, digestive problems, hypoglycaemia, loss of nerve function, and depressed immune response.
Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) is the major vitamin in the processing of amino acids, the building blocks of all proteins and some hormones and neurotransmitters including prolactin, serotonin, melatonin, and dopamine. Because vitamin B6 is an essential nutrient for the nervous system, it can regulate mental processes and mood. In combination with folic acid and vitamin B12, vitamin B6 lowers homocysteine levels, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Vitamin B6 is also needed for the regulation of fluid balance. Vitamin B6 deficiencies, although rare, cause impaired immune function and skin healing, and mood changes. A deficiency can occur in alcoholics, patients with kidney failure, and women using oral contraceptives.
Folic Acid, also known as B9 or folate, is essential for proper cell replication and growth. Folic acid helps form building blocks of DNA, the body’s genetic information, and building blocks needed for protein synthesis in all cells. Therefore, rapidly growing tissue, such as a foetus, and rapidly repaired cells, like red blood cells and immune cells, have a high need for folic acid.
The requirement for folic acid doubles during pregnancy, and deficiencies can result in low birth weight and an increased incidence of neural tube defects such as spina bifida. Taking folic acid before and during pregnancy may be able to lower the risk of birth defects by up to 72%. As a consequence, all women of childbearing age (whether they are planning to conceive or not) are recommended to supplement with 400 mcg per day of folic acid. Folic acid is needed to keep blood levels of homocysteine low. Elevated homocysteine is a risk factor for atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease and senile dementia. Folic acid may prevent the development of colon and breast cancer, especially in those with low levels of folate in their diet.
Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin, Cyanocobalamin) is needed for normal nerve and brain activity, DNA replication and blood production. It was first discovered as the necessary missing ingredient in pernicious anaemia. It works with folic acid and vitamin B6 to control homocysteine levels, a risk factor in cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease. Vitamin B12 deficiency can cause fatigue, and injections of B12 have been shown to improve energy even in people without a deficiency, including people with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Vegans (vegetarians who also avoid dairy and eggs) frequently become deficient over a number of years. People with malabsorption conditions may suffer from vitamin B12 deficiency, including those with tapeworm and bacterial overgrowth in the intestines. Malabsorption can also result from the effects of gastrointestinal surgery, pancreatic disease, or various prescription drugs. Older people are at increased risk of B12 deficiency due to poor intake and reduced absorption. HIV-infected patients are often deficient in vitamin B12, as are many people with psychiatric disorders.
| Postal Option |
|
| Regular Post |
Most economical form of postage but has no
tracking number. The whereabouts of items delayed or lost
cannot be found. We cannot refund purchases lost or delayed in
this manner. |
| Express Post |
Most expedient form of delivery. Parcels have
tracking number and arrive very quickly (usually overnight).
Greatest level of customer satisfaction. |
| Registered Post |
Signature required upon delivery. No P.O.
Boxes please. Most reliable form of postage but slower than
Express Post. Parcels are posted with a valid tracking number |
- Postage & Handling costs include handling, packing & shipping
- All parcels are shipped within 24 hours of receiving payment
- Parcels shipped via Australia Post with Parcel Tracking
- Item Pickup Unavailable
- We do not assume responsibility for items lost by Australia Post
Any questions, please feel free to e-mail us, info@risinghealthstore.com
|