Vitamin B Complex

General description

Vitamin B complex contains the full complement of vitamins found in the B group, listed below.

B vitamins are water-soluble. This means they are dissolved in water and your body doesn't store them. The B vitamins are related and work closely in your body. For this reason, having all the B vitamins in your body helps your body work better.

B vitamins are found in many foods. So most people don't have a high risk of developing a deficiency if they follow a balanced diet.

There are many B-complex supplements. They all have different amounts of the common B vitamins. Some also contain vitamin C and bioflavonoids. These are often called B complexes with C.

The B complex includes:

• Thiamin (B-1)
  
  
• Riboflavin (B-2)
  
  
• Niacin (B-3)
  
  
• Pantothenic acid (B-5)
  
  
• Pyridoxine (B-6)
  
  
• Folic acid (B-9)
  
  
• Cobalamin (B-12)
  
  

These are often also included as part of the B complex:

• Biotin (vitamin H)
  
  
• Choline
  
  
• Inositol
  
  
• Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA)
  
  

See each B vitamin for more information.

Unsubstantiated claims

There may be claims for using vitamin B complex that haven't yet been proven through research.

Taking a B complex supplement may help increase energy levels, reduce stress, boost mood, and reduce symptoms of anxiety or depression. Always talk with your healthcare provider before taking a supplement.