VITAMIN B

All essential nutrients that are required for the functioning of the body are brought under vitamin B complex. Among them, thiamine Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2 that is riboflavin, Vitamin B6 that is niacin, Vitamin B12 that is cyano cobalamine is very important ones.

They function as co-factors from the enzymes and coenzymes required for body functions like, cell respiration, glucose metabolism etc.

Vitamin B1 deficiency may result in lack of appetite, swelling, low pulse, arthritis, which is the long run may cause Beri Beri.

Niacin deficiency may cause anemia, loss of weight, excessive morning sickness etc.

Deficiency of riboflavin causes mouth ulcers, skin irritation, indigestion, skin blisters etc.

Folic acid deficiency causes anemia.

B complex are not available in any single food. Milk, whole grains other cereals, pulses, dark green vegetables, eggs, and meat should be eaten together to get full complement of all the vitamins Bs.

Folic acid

This is one of the B complex vitamins. This is involved In the formation of DNA and RNA which are the basic genetic material is impaired without folic acid.

This is important for the growth of the fetus and for blood production in the mother. Recent reports have proved that sufficient intake of folic acid by mother during the early period of pregnancy would reduce chances of impaired development of the nervous system in the fetus.

Green vegetables, greens, liver, yeast, beans, legumes, nuts, and full grains are rich in folic acids. About 80% of folic acid content is lost while cooking and preserving. Hence a supplement of this nutrient is prescribed them.