Aside from proper diet and exercise, our bodies need one more thing to function properly: vitamins. Indeed, certified health coach Debbie Hendrickson even emphasized taking supplements should our bodies be lacking in essential vitamins. One such component is vitamin B, which supports our metabolic functions.

In fact, PrettyMe’s writeup about WrecOver Anti-Hangover Pills lists Vitamin B complex as one of its key components, owing to its ability to help boost energy. And while the main role of vitamin B is to convert food into energy—this is not limited to fuel that your body needs to stay active. Take a look at the many benefits of vitamin B and how it directs our ingested energy. 

Manages stress.

There are many types of vitamin B, and one of them is pantothenic acid or vitamin B5. It produces and regulates stress-related hormones produced in the adrenal glands. When your body is deprived of it, it may lead to fatigue, insomnia, irritability, and even depression. Pantothenic acid can easily be gathered by including whole grains into your diet, but it can also be found in shellfish, egg yolks, mushrooms, and more.

Prevents memory loss.

Another brain-related vitamin is B12 or cobalamin. It’s responsible for the promotion of nerve tissue health, and most subsequently, brain function. As such, low levels of vitamin B12 have been associated with memory loss, especially in older adults. True enough, a 2016 study published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease found that early-stage dementia was detected from those who were vitamin B12-deficient. To maintain a healthy mind, look into adding organ meats (like liver), shellfish, and saltwater fish onto your daily platter.

Maintains oxygen levels.

Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, converts amino acids into hemoglobin. This is the component of red blood cells that carries oxygen. A body with low oxygen, or one deficient in B6, can lead to a myriad of problems, including anemia, shortness of breath, and severe chest pain. The best sources of vitamin B6 are fish, organ meats, and starchy vegetables (like potatoes). 

Ensures healthy growth.

Folic acid, more commonly known as vitamin B9, is involved in the formation of new cells. Therefore, it’s a vitamin that doctors recommend every pregnant mother get plenty of to ensure a strong and healthy baby. Physician Ishan Shah even informs that proper amounts of vitamin B9 lowers the risks of birth defects. Teenagers can also benefit a lot from this vitamin, ensuring that they get the most out of their adolescent development. Leafy greens, citrus fruits, and nuts are some foods that are high in vitamin B9. 

Keeps the skin healthy.

Vitamin B3, also known as niacin, distributes the nutrients to our skin (and hair). It serves as antioxidative, and products with it as an ingredient will even boast anti-inflammatory properties. For example, Omorovicza’s colloidal silver toner contains generous amounts of vitamin B3 and is touted in the beauty community as an “anti-acne powerhouse.” It also prevents redness, breakouts, and skin pigmentation. Then again, you can also naturally get this nutrient from poultry and beans. 

Vitamin B is responsible for a lot of things—from maintaining a healthy mind, to repairing bodily damages. Make sure to always include it in every meal.