As its name implies, the vitamin B complex is a combination or mixture of eight essential vitamins. Although each is chemically distinct, the B vitamins coexist in many of the same foods and often work together to regulate metabolism, maintain healthy skin and muscle tone, enhance immune and nervous system function, and promote cell growth and division - including that of the red blood cells that help prevent anemia.

Together, the B vitamins also combat stress, depression, and cardiovascular disease.  These water soluble vitamins are dispersed throughout the body and must be replenished daily.  Any excess B vitamins are excreted in the urine. People susceptible to vitamin B deficiency include pregnant women, nursing mothers, vegetarians, alcoholics, “sugar-holics”, the elderly, and people with malabsorption conditions or who take certain antibiotics long-term.

The B Vitamin Group includes:

• Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)
• Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)
• Vitamin B3 (Niacin)
• Vitamin B4 (Adenine)
• Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
• Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
• Vitamin B7 (Biotin or Vitamin H)
• Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid)
• Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin)
• Vitamin B15 (Pangamic Acid)
• Vitamin B17 (Amygdalin)
• Vitamin Bx (Para aminobenzoic Acid)