B-Plex

Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is responsible for energy production in the brain. A building block of enzymes, vitamin B1 regulates carbohydrate metabolism and has a pain-soothing and detoxifying effect on the nervous system. A vitamin B1 deficiency causes brain function to decrease and may lead to mental changes such as mood disorders, forgetfulness and confusion. Thiamine also influences the important neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is responsible for healthy memory.

One of the tasks of vitamin B2 (riboflavin) is the renewal of glutathione, one of the cells’ most important protective substances against free radicals.

Apart from the production of energy, vitamin B3 (niacin), along with other substances, is responsible for helping to maintain blood sugar levels within normal ranges, protecting against free radicals and for various detoxification functions in the body. Niacin also helps to maintain healthy cholesterol levels within normal ranges.

Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) is involved in the production of energy from fat and carbohydrates. It is also necessary for the production of certain hormones and the formation of red blood cells.

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) plays an important role in cell division and renewal and, therefore, is especially important during pregnancy. It is also involved in the production of amino acids and important brain neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine and noradrenaline. Therefore, vitamin B6 deficiency may lead to a variety of severe conditions, including mood disorders.

Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) is an essential factor for normal growth, undisturbed hematopoiesis (formation of the cellular components of the blood) and the maturing of epithelial cells. It is an essential factor for energy production and supports healthy immune function. Vitamin B12 deficiency is one of the main causes of age-related diseases of the brain.

Biotin is involved in the processing of fat and amino acids from our food. Sufficient levels of biotin result in healthy nails and hair.

Folic acid (vitamin B11) is necessary for DNA synthesis, and therefore for the development of cells. Folic acid has a positive effect on all rapidly dividing tissues and supports their regeneration. Therefore, a deficiency in folic acid primarily affects fast-growing tissue; consequently, it is critical to get enough folic acid during pregnancy. Along these lines, certain embryonic malformations (neural tube defects and spina bifida) can be associated with a maternal deficiency in folic acid. Therefore, supplementing with folic acid is recommended, particularly during pregnancy. Various studies have recently indicated that a deficiency in folic acid may also contribute to the development of numerous diseases, for example, atherosclerosis.

Vitamin C is capable of trapping free radicals in the body and rendering them innocuous. Thus, vitamin C increases the defenses of the body. It also enhances the formation and accumulation of collagen, an important protein in the body that is neces-sary for tissue formation.

MSM (methyl-sulfonyl-methane) is an important sulfur compound that plays a role in the synthesis of many proteins, including those found in the muscles, skin and hair.