The Benefits of B Vitamins

Over the past several months I have mentioned vitamin B-12 shots to help your health. I am very excited to announce the Custom Blended B Vitamin Happy Hours that will be starting on Wednesday, February 2 between 4:00 and 6:00 pm. I thought it would be appropriate to discuss the benefits of B vitamins and why receiving an injection is better than taking the supplement.

In general, B vitamins are involved in many pathways throughout the body. They help to decrease inflammation, support the immune system and enhance metabolism. They most likely also support brain function!

Vitamin B-12 is the most common vitamin to inject. It comes in a variety of forms, I carry two of them. The first is hydroxocobalamin. This form of the vitamin is very good for B-12 anemia, energy, immune support, nerve pain and digestive disorders. It is also an important vitamin for vegetarians and vegans to supplement. Methylcobalamin addresses all of the above but it is also beneficial for stabilizing mood such as anxiety and depression. It has been used for autism, helps with focus and decreases or eliminates neuropathy. Methylcobalamin is the active form of vitamin B-12 so the body can use it immediately and it is able to pass the blood-brain-barrier therefore positively affecting brain function.

Vitamin B1 or thiamine is an excellent vitamin for decreasing stress and boosting the immune system. Thiamine is depleted if you regularly consume alcohol so it is very important to supplement with vitamin B1.

Vitamin B6 or pyridoxine plays an important role in the anti-inflammatory pathways of the body, helps support the immune system, balances mood, relieves headaches and PMS symptoms.

Folate or folic acid can is very important during pregnancy as it helps the fetus develop. It is also of benefit for hot flashes, infertility and heart health.

Finally I am also offering the B complex which includes vitamins B1, B2, B3, B5 and B6. The complex helps with energy and is an anti-stress in addition to the individual vitamin roles.

Why would someone choose to receive an injection rather than just taking the oral supplement? The main reason is that with an injection the vitamins go directly to your blood system, intramuscularly, and can be used immediately. When taking an oral supplement the vitamin is absorbed via the digestive system and is subject to harsh digestion processes. Also, if the digestive system is compromised so is the vitamin uptake. This is particularly relevant for vitamin B12 which requires intrinsic factor to be present and can be depleted if digestion is compromised. Injections get the vitamins directly to where they need to be in a matter of seconds in their most intact form.

If you are interested in learning more or have any questions give the office a call.