OTHER VITAMINS: FOLIC ACID, VITAMIN B-12, PYRIDOXINE, PANTHOTHENIC ACID, ETC.
Folic acid is important in pregnant women to prevent certain types of anemia. Liver, kidney, and dark green leafy vegetables are rich in FOLIC ACID.
Vitamin B-12 is important in preventing certain types of anemia. Liver is the best source of Vitamin B-12 although it is still in very negligible quantity in such food material.
Pyridoxine is known to be important in pregnant women and in persons taking in certain medicines like INH. Food sources are not well defined.
Pantothenic acid is known to cause certain tendency to convulsion when markedly deficient. Little is known as to their food sources.
Here's some information about Folic Acid, Vitamin B-12, Pyridoxine, and Pantothenic Acid:
These are all essential B vitamins, playing crucial roles in various bodily functions. They are water-soluble, meaning they are not stored in the body and need to be replenished regularly through diet or supplements.
1. Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)
Role: Essential for cell growth and division, DNA synthesis and repair, and red blood cell formation. It's particularly important during periods of rapid cell division, such as pregnancy, infancy, and adolescence.
Benefits: Prevents neural tube defects in newborns (when taken by pregnant women), helps prevent certain types of anemia (megaloblastic anemia), supports heart health, and may play a role in mood regulation.
Sources: Leafy green vegetables (spinach, kale), legumes (lentils, beans), citrus fruits, whole grains, fortified cereals, and liver.
Deficiency Symptoms: Anemia, fatigue, weakness, mouth sores, swollen tongue, and growth problems.
2. Vitamin B-12 (Cobalamin)
Role: Crucial for nerve function, DNA synthesis, red blood cell formation, and energy production. It works closely with folic acid.
Benefits: Prevents megaloblastic anemia, supports neurological health, helps maintain cognitive function, and plays a role in energy metabolism.
Sources: Primarily found in animal products like meat, fish, poultry, eggs, and dairy. Fortified cereals and nutritional yeast are options for vegetarians/vegans.
Deficiency Symptoms: Anemia, fatigue, weakness, neurological problems (numbness, tingling, difficulty walking), memory loss, and depression. Vegans and strict vegetarians are at higher risk of deficiency.
3. Pyridoxine (Vitamin B6)
Role: Involved in over 100 enzyme reactions, primarily related to protein metabolism. It plays a role in neurotransmitter synthesis, red blood cell formation, and immune function.
Benefits: Supports brain development and function, helps regulate mood, aids in the production of hemoglobin, and may help reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
Sources: Chicken, fish, pork, bananas, potatoes, chickpeas, fortified cereals.
Deficiency Symptoms: Skin inflammation (dermatitis), depression, confusion, seizures, and anemia.
4. Pantothenic Acid (Vitamin B5)
Role: Essential for the synthesis of coenzyme A (CoA), which is vital for energy metabolism (breaking down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins), hormone production, and the synthesis of cholesterol.
Benefits: Supports energy production, promotes healthy skin and hair, aids in the production of adrenal hormones, and may help reduce cholesterol levels.
Sources: Widely distributed in many foods, including meat, poultry, fish, whole grains, legumes, eggs, and vegetables.
Deficiency Symptoms: Rare due to its widespread availability in food, but can include fatigue, irritability, sleep disturbances, numbness, and muscle cramps.
General Considerations:
Interactions: These B vitamins often work synergistically. For example, B12 and folate are closely linked in their metabolic pathways.
Supplementation: While a balanced diet is the best way to obtain these vitamins, supplementation may be necessary in certain cases (e.g., pregnancy, specific dietary restrictions, medical conditions). Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplements.
Water-Soluble: As they are water-soluble, excess amounts are generally excreted in urine, reducing the risk of toxicity compared to fat-soluble vitamins. However, extremely high doses of some B vitamins can still have adverse effects.
0 Comments