Vitamin B isn't a single vitamin like vitamin C or E is. It's made up of a bunch of vitamins that are called the B vitamins, or the vitamin B complex. Get the nutritious scoop on it right here!
Vitamin B - Why Is It Good For You?
The B vitamins work together to increase your metabolism and energy, and decrease stress, depression and heart disease. A lack of vitamin B in your diet will leave you feeling so tired that you can't function properly, as well as make your mouth and tongue red, swollen and cracked - ouch!
Vitamin B - List of B Vitamins
- B1 (Thiamine) - Helps metabolize carbohydrates into glucose. Found in whole-grain cereals, bread and brown rice.
- B2 (Riboflavin) - Breaks down carbs, fats and protein. Sources include milk, eggs and cheese.
- B3 (Niacin) - Lowers cholesterol and keeps skin healthy. Found in protein-rich foods such as fish, eggs, meat and potatoes.
- B5 (Pantothenic Acid) - Keeps your Central Nervous System healthy and fights allergies and fatigue. Found in meats, legumes and whole-grain cereals.
- B6 (Pyridoxine) - Like B2, B6 breaks down carbs, fats and protein. Also helps produce red blood cells. Found in avocados, bananas, soybeans and fish.
- B7 (Biotin) - Keeps your hair and nails healthy. Good sources include cauliflower, mushrooms, oatmeal and rice.
- B9 (Folic Acid) - Important for pregnancies cuz it protects against birth defects. Found in leafy, green veggies, orange juice, whole grains and beans.
- B12 (Cyanocobalamin) - Helps make all the blood cells in your body to prevent anemia, a blood disorder that makes you feel weak and tired. Rich sources of B12 include meat (especially liver and shellfish), poultry, egg yolk and milk.
Vitamin B - Did U Know?
- The recommended daily intake for kids is 50-100 mg of folic acid, and approximately 1 mg of the rest.
- Vitamin B12 is found in many energy drinks like Red Bull and Lightning Bolt.
Foods high in Vitamin B
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