Are you feeling more tired than usual? Do you have bouts of lightheadedness? Are you suffering from tingling or numbness in your hands and feet? You may not be getting enough Vitamin B.
B vitamins affect our energy levels, brain function and cell metabolism. They help our body make red blood cells and nerve cells. B vitamins help the body make and repair DNA. They also help prevent infections and aid nervous system function.
There are eight different types of B vitamins. They are thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pantothenic acid (B5), pyridoxine (B6), biotin (B7), folate (B9), and cobalamin (B12). Each one plays an essential role in maintaining good health.
B vitamins are water soluble; that means that the body cannot easily store them for long periods of time. This is why it is so important to regularly consume foods that are rich in B vitamins. Because the main foods that provide vitamin B are derived from animals, vegans and vegetarians should be exceptionally vigilant about their intake.
Here are some foods that are a good source of B vitamins:
- Red Meat
- Fish and Shellfish
- Poultry
- Leafy Greens
- Whole Grains
- Eggs, Milk and Cheese
- Legumes
- Seeds and Nuts
It is always best to get vitamins from food sources, yet if you feel that you may not be getting enough, a B Complex supplement may be in order. Getting adequate amounts of B vitamins will put you on the road to better health.
