By: Bronwyn Ison
Is your body receiving the proper nutrition? The question is not meant to be provocative but rather pique your interest. While the body demands certain vitamins and nutrients it warrants the question, are we receiving enough of the right supplements? When maintaining a balanced diet you have a greater probability of ingesting what the body requires. Research tells us a diet rich in B vitamins is essential for certain bodily functions. So what is with all the B’s you need? What do they provide for your body?
In conjunction with a proper and balanced diet I strive to nourish my body with additional B vitamins. Weekly or at least monthly I visit a wellness clinic to receive a vitamin B shot. Why? While I may be ingesting some of my B vitamins I may not be receiving what my body requires to function at its optimum potential. A vitamin B complex is made up of B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, B9 and B12 all serve a different purpose. B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6, B7 (biotin), B9 (folate), B12. B vitamins enable the body to produce energy and propagate red blood cells. Taking a vitamin B complex may help treat or mitigate certain health problems. The list includes aiding with anxiety, depression, fatigue, heart disease, premenstrual syndrome, and skin maladies. Many people add vitamin B to their diets to increase their energy level, heighten their mood, improve memory, and stimulate the immune system.
You may also be interested to learn how B complex serves bodily function. When B1 and B2 are present healthy muscles, nerves, and the heart function properly. B3 helps regulate the nervous and digestive systems; B5 and B12 are required for normal growth and development; B6 supports the immune system and aids the body in breaking down protein. Plus, B6 may protect against heart disease, and relives PMS symptoms. B7 is a catalyst in the production of hormones. B9 helps cells make and maintain DNA.
Visiting your doctor to receive a vitamin B shot may seem eccentric for you. Increase your B vitamins through a healthy diet. Try some the suggested foods.
- cereals and whole grains (a source of B1, B2, and B3)
- green leafy vegetables (a source of B2 and B9)
- eggs (a source of B7 and B12)
- chicken (a source of B3, B6, and B12)
- citrus fruits (a source of B9)
- nuts (a source of B3 and B9)
- kidney beans (a source of B1 and B2)
- bananas (a source of B6 and B7) Vitamin B is found in almost all foods.
Signs of a vitamin B deficiency may include fatigue, anemia, loss of appetite, muscle cramping, hair loss, skin conditions and depression. You should consult your physician if you are experiencing any of the above.
As mentioned in last weeks issue, our body is our vessel. We must maintain good health to properly function at our optimum levels. We are living beings that require fine-tuning physically and mentally. Be good to your body and it will be good to you. For more information about health, wellness, and staying fit visit: www.e-volveyoga.com
