Vitamin B complex supplements refer a combination of all the known water soluble vitamins except Vitamin C. The supplement includes a mixture of thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid, pyridoxine, biotin, folic acid and cobalamin. Although these are different nutrients having their own unique function, they work in synergy for an overall improvement in health.
Water soluble vitamins cannot be stored in the body. Some portion of vitamins is absorbed by the tissues and organs of the body to perform vital functions and rest is washed out. Even medical conditions like stress, smoking, diabetes and other ailments tend to deplete B Vitamins, resulting in Vitamin B complex deficiency. In such cases, Vitamin B complex supplement is advised.
A normal B complex vitamin supplement consists of 100 mg of Vitamin B1, 100 mg of Vitamin B2, 100 mg of Vitamin B3, 100 mcg of biotin, 100mcg of Vitamin B12 and 400 mcg of folic acid. Apart from these normal equalized supplements, there are B complex supplements that are formulated with different mg or mcg amount based on the requirement of the individuals.
Individuals suffering from gout require more of B5 and less of lecithin whereas individuals with iron toxicity require less of thiamine but more of riboflavin. Extra amount of Vitamin B1 along with high sodium content benefit individuals with Addison's diseases whereas a blend of Vitamin B2 and folic acid along with low sodium content benefit individuals suffering from Cushing's diseases.
Supplements with higher amounts of biotin and less amounts of Vitamin B6 is good for people with low blood sugar. Apart from these specifications, individuals with a strict vegetarian diet must go for supplements consisting of high amounts of Vitamin B12 as this B vitamin is present only in animal sources.
Vitamin supplements are recommended to improve the overall micronutrient intake and prevent deficiency. These supplements further help to improve mood, concentration and reaction time along with providing enhanced energy to the body. If these supplements are consumed in wrong proportions or high doses, these are likely to hamper the normal life processes.
Every individual is different in its structure and biological profile, so the end results vary from one individual to the other. So, it is always recommended to consult a doctor before taking any supplement.