INDIVIDUAL B VITAMINS  
     
 

Nutrition Facts:

The B vitamin family consists of a group of individual vitamins. The most important function of the B vitamin family is to work as coenzymes in the body, mediating the energy production cycle, also known as the Krebs cycle. B vitamins are water-soluble and are generally safe in large doses because the body can easi Iy excrete excess intake.

Since B vitamins work synergistically in many of their functions, many people find best results when they are all taken together in a B Complex formula. Individual B vitamins, on the other hand, may be recommended for therapeutic reasons, since their action in large doses can produce specific effects.

B1 (Thiamin)
The first B vitamin discovered, hence the name. Thiamin is essential for proper energy production in the brain. It functions as part of the enzymatic process necessary for energy production.

  • Needed to process protein, carbohydrates, and fat
  • Required by each cell to form A TP, the fuel used by the body to create energy
  • Required by nerve cells in order to function normally
  • Found in soybeans, brown rice, sunflower seeds, and peanuts

B2 (Riboflavin)
First recognized as a yellow-green pigment in milk in 1879. Riboflavin functions with important enzymes involved in energy production.

  • Those likely to be deficient are alcoholics, vegans and those with sickle cell anemia
  • Needed to activate Vitamin B6 and folic acid
  • Important in energy production
  • Found in dairy foods, eggs, and meat

B3 (Niacin, Niacinamide)
The body converts the amino acid tryptophan to create niacin. It is required in the process of releasing energy from carbohydrates. The niacin form of Vitamin B3 also regulates cholesterol levels in the body. Therapeutic doses of niacin are used to lower cholesterol and should be administered by a health care practitioner due to the possibility of liver toxicity.

  • Essential in the production of energy and to process alcohol
  • Functions therapeutically to promote heart health
  • Found in liver, organ meats, eggs, fish, peanuts, Brewer's yeast and in smaller amounts in rice, seeds, and barley

B5 (Pantothenic Acid)
Often used externally in hair care products, as well as taken internally. This vitamin plays a vital role in various enzymatic functions in the body:

  • Utilized in the breakdown of fats and carbohydrates
  • Important in the manufacture of adrenal hormones and red blood cells
  • Necessary for energy production
  • Required for proper function of the nervous system
  • Essential in metabolizing fats . Supports adrenal glands
  • Found in liver, yeast, salmon, vegetables, dairy, grains and eggs

B6 (Pyridoxine)
Is required to process amino acids in the body. It is also needed to make the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine, supporting nervous system health. Along with folic acid and B12, B6 is:

  • Directly related to homocysteine levels in body - excess homocysteine buildup increases the risk of a heart attack; adequate levels of B6 assist in keeping homocysteine levels balanced
  • Crucial in maintaining hormone homeostasis, including melatonin production
  • Food sources of B6 include liver, organ meats, milk, fish, poultry, whole grains, and legumes Deficiency of vitamin B6 may occur in alcoholics and those using oral contraceptives. Therapeutic uses for B6 include morning sickness, carpal tunnel syndrome, PMS, water balance.

B12 (Cobalamin)
Works with folic acid to synthesize DNA, red blood cells, and nerve cells. Intrinsic factor, a special digestive secretion, is necessary to absorb Vitamin B12 from food. Our B-12 (VL204), is unique because it is protected with a special resin. This resin delays disintegration of the tablet until it reaches the small intestine. Once there, it breaks down, allowing for maximum absorption of this important nutrient. Other important factors include:

  • Works with Vitamins B6 and folic acid to keep homocysteine levels in check and aid in decreasing risk of heart disease
  • Stored in the liver
  • Found only in animal sources, such as liver, kidney, eggs, cheese, and meat

Folic Acid
Commonly referred to as Folacin or Folate, this vitamin is needed for energy production and the formation of red blood cells. Folic acid intake and cellular stores are most critical to:

  • Nervous system development of the fetus, especially in the beginning weeks of pregnancy
  • Reducing the risk of heart disease by keeping homocysteine levels in check
  • Found in orange juice, green leafy vegetables, whole grains, legumes and fortified cereals

Biotin
Biotin functions in the utilization of fats and amino acids. Biotin can be manufactured in the gut.

  • Commonly used by those with alopecia (hair loss) and for strong nails
  • Found in liver, soy, grains, nuts, and brewer's yeast

PABA (Para-aminobenzoic Acid)
Functions in the breakdown and utilization of proteins and in the formation of blood cells. Plays an important role in:

  • Skin health
  • Hair pigmentation
  • Intestinal health
  • Found in grains and meats
  • Individual B Vitamin Marketing Opportunities:
  • Premium products that are consistently top sellers
  • Good adjunct to multiples, or as stand-alone products
  • Many have therapeutic functions

Individual B Vitamin Marketing Opportunities:

  • Premium products that are consistently top sellers
  • Good adjunct to multiples, or as stand-alone products
  • Many have therapeutic functions

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any diseases.

 
     
 
<< Back To B Vitamins & B Complex Table   Back To Top ^
 
     
  1. What is the difference between Niacin and Niacinamide?  
  Vitamin B3 comes in two natural forms: niacin (or nicotinic acid) and niacinamide. Niacin is easily converted into niacinamide in our body tissues. Thus, niacin is found in animal tissues as niacinamide and in plant tissues as nicotinic acid. The richest niacin sources are Brewer's Yeast, red meat, poultry, fish, and peanuts. Niacin acts as a mild dilator of blood vessels and increases blood flow. Depending on the individual, it may cause a temporary flushing of the face and increased skin temperature. Niacinamide has not been shown to cause these unpleasant reactions. Medical professionals may prescribe drug dosages of niacin since it has been positively associated with cholesterolleve/s. A few cases of liver toxicity have occurred in individuals taking drug dosages (greater than 2 grams prolonged-release niacin/day). Therefore, a high niacin intake should only be taken under the supervision of a medical professional.  
     
  2. What does double absorption on the B12, 500 mcg (VL204) label mean and how does it compare to a sublingual B12?  
 

Before discussing this question, it is important to understand the absorption and transportation of B12 in the body. B12 (cyanocobalamin) is synthesized by microorganisms in our gastrointestinal tract. It occurs as part of a protein complex in animal proteins. B12 absorption involves the following steps:

  1. Ingested B12 is broken down by enzymes and hydrochloric acid.
  2. B12 then binds with an R protein and is transported from the stomach to the small intestine. R proteins are found in saliva and gastric juices. Once in the small intestine, B12 is released.
  3. The unbound cobalamin then binds to another specific protein called Intrinsic Factor (IF), which is necessary for the absorption of B12 in the small intestine.
  4. After crossing the intestinal lining, B12 breaks off from the IF and binds to still another carrier protein. The protein, transcobalamin, transports vitamin B12 to the bloodstream.

This specially-processed cobalamin contains a resin that responds to particular pH levels. As the tablet disintegrates, the nutrient is protected by the resin until it reaches the small intestine. It is here where the pH is high enough to allow the resin to release the B12. This process can essentially double the absorption of vitamin B12. That's why we call our formula "double absorption" B12.

Based on an extensive review of available data, this form of B12 was better absorbed than oral B12 and sublingual B12. Furthermore, we can find no documentation that shows B12 is better absorbed if it combines with the R protein in the saliva vs. in the stomach

  
     
 
<< Back To B Vitamins & B Complex Table   Back To Top ^