Vitamin B1: Vitamin B1 as Thiamine is absorbed in the duodenum and converted with magnesium as a cofactor to its active form, thiamine pyrophosphate (TPP). TPP acts as a cofactor at crucial steps of the citric acid cycle and pentose phosphate pathway. TPP also plays a major role in the aerobic metabolism of glucose for energy production [3].

• Helps the body convert food into energy, and aids the function of the heart and cardiovascular system and the brain and nervous system.

Vitamin B2: Vitamin B2 as Riboflavin is essential in synthesizing niacin, folic acid, vitamin B6, and all heme proteins. It is also needed for carbohydrate, protein, and fat metabolism into glucose. Its antioxidant effect is vital to cellular respiration and function in the immune system [3].

• Works with other B vitamins to promote healthy growth and tissue repair, and helps release energy from carbohydrates. Promotes healthy skin and healthy red blood cell production.

Vitamin B3: Vitamin B3 as Niacin works as a precursor for nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate coenzymes. Both are needed for DNA repair and cholesterol synthesis [3].

• Works with other B vitamins to help release energy from carbohydrates.

• Promotes healthy nerves

• Promotes healthy skin and digestive system.

Vitamin B5: Vitamin B5 as Pantothenic acid is essential in the biosynthesis of coenzyme A, cholesterol, fatty acids, and acetylcholine [3]

• Helps turn the food you eat into the energy you need. It’s important for many functions in the body, especially making and breaking down fats.

Vitamin B6: Vitamin B6 as Pyridoxal 5′-phosphate, the active form, is a coenzyme that supports numerous enzymes in performing various functions, including the maintenance of normal levels of homocysteine, supporting immune function and brain health, and the breakdown of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats [3].

• Important for maintaining healthy brain function, the formation of red blood cells, the conversion of protein and the synthesis of antibodies in support of the immune system.

Vitamin B7: Vitamin B7 as Biotin plays an essential role in gene regulation, cell signaling, and replication. It catalyzes the metabolism of fatty acids, glucose, and amino acids [3]

• Vitamin B7 is an important part of enzymes in the body that break down substances like fats, carbohydrates, and others.

• Helps in promoting healthy hair and nails.

Vitamin B9: Vitamin B9 as Folate is crucial for nucleic acid synthesis and red blood cell production. It is involved in converting homocysteine to methionine, which is essential for hematopoiesis and prevention of megaloblastic anemia.

• Aids in the production of red blood cells.

• Aids in the synthesis of DNA.

• Works with B12 and vitamin C to help the body digest and utilize proteins.

Vitamin B12: Vitamin B12 as Cobalamin eventually combines with an intrinsic factor to absorb in the distal ileum. Interruption of this process can hinder its absorption, leading to megaloblastic anemia and neurologic disorders. Cobalamin is required for red blood cell production, neurological function, and myelin synthesis. It serves as a cofactor in DNA and RNA synthesis as well as hormone, protein, and lipid synthesis and metabolism.

• Important for metabolism, the formation of red blood cells, and the maintenance of the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord.

References:

3. Hanna, Mary, et al. "B Vitamins: Functions and Uses in Medicine." Perm. J 26 (2022): 89-97.