Vitamin B Profile

This whole blood profile includes the complete set - 6 of the 8 vitamins known to belong in the B group. Essential for a wide range of cellular functions, deficiencies in any one of these six vitamins can have serious effects. The two B vitamins not tested (pantothenic acid and biotin) are so abundant in all foods that deficiency is extremely unlikely in the western diet. All are water soluble - meaning they are required in the diet daily to ensure adequate supply.

B1 (thiamine) - plays a vital role in the growth and function of various cells.

B2 (riboflavin) - helps regulate energy release from food and has anti-oxidant properties.

B3 (niacin) - involved in DNA synthesis and repair, and in the release of energy from cells.

B6 (pyridoxine) - essential for optimal nerve function and may be beneficial for the reduction of symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Overdose with supplements ahs been known to cause problems with nerve function.

B9 (folate) - helps the body break down complex carbohydrates into simple sugars to be used for energy. It is found in green leaved vegetables especially. The body has low reserves of folate, perhaps four months, so deficiency is quite common but easily corrected.

B12 cobalamin)- deficiency can lead to anaemia (poor quality red blood cells) and neurological (nerve) disorders. It is most abundant in meat products so vegetarians and vegans are more vulnerable to deficiency of this vitamin. Mild deficiency may explain the presence of fatigue and a host of other limiting symptoms.