The word “vitamin” is a combination of two words- “vital” and “amine.” It was first coined by Polish chemist Casimir Funk with his discovery of a Vitamin B1 (thiamin) deficiency as the cause for the inflammatory disease, beriberi. From that moment forward, the word “vitamin” was used to describe any organic molecular structure that acts as a catalyst for reactions in the body.
Funk’s discovery itself was a catalyst for decades of research on how B vitamins work in the body. We now know that B vitamin deficiencies are the cause of some of the most serious conditions, including cancer.
The B Breakdown
The basic information about B’s can be hard to sort out from the mire of information out there. Basically B vitamins are a collection of 8 (or so) vitamins that all share the “B” name. They all assist in the breakdown of carbohydrates, fats and proteins and help regulate the immune system, the nervous system and the digestive system as well as the liver, eyes, skin and hair.
Here is a quick run-down of each one:
- B1 (thiamin): Thiamin helps in ATP conversion. Most people are not deficient in B1, since it can be found in so many food sources. However, alcoholics, people undergoing kidney dialysis, and individuals with certain autoimmune conditions, such as Crohn disease, may be. Signs of deficiency include headache, nausea, fatigue and irritability, abdominal discomfort (caused by trouble digesting carbohydrates), Alzheimer’s, heart failure, and depression.
- B2 (riboflavin): Riboflavin is a powerful antioxidant. It is also needed to help convert B6 and folic acid into forms that the body can use. Signs of B2 deficiency include stunted growth, digestive issues, mouth, eye and throat soreness, cataracts and migraine headaches. New research has established a possible link between B2 deficiency and autism as well as high levels of B2 and protection against colorectal cancer.
- B3 (niacin): Niacin helps the body make stress-related and sex hormones. It helps with circulation and the lessening of inflammation. Alcoholism is the main cause for B3 deficiency in the developed world. New research may also be creating the link between B3 supplementation and the reduction of skin cancer tumors.
- B5 (pantothenic acid): B5 is essential for the manufacturing of red blood cells as well as stress and sex hormones produced in the adrenal glands. It is important in digestive health and in the synthesis of riboflavin and cholesterol. Deficiencies can lead to high cholesterol levels, upper respiratory infections, insomnia, fatigue and depression. Recent research has indicated that pantothenic acid may reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
- B6 (pyridoxine): B6 helps in the production of brain neurotransmitters and aids in controlling homocysteine levels in the blood. It is also needed to absorb B12 for the production of red blood and immune system cells. The elderly and children are most at risk for mild B6 deficiencies, which could lead to mood disorders, short-memory loss and heart disease. Various studies have linked B6 supplementation to improvements in PMS symptoms, depression and carpal tunnel syndrome.
- B9 (folic acid): B9 aids in the production of the body’s basic genetic materials. Studies have shown that folic acid protects against cancer, especially breast cancer. Unfortunately, folic acid deficiency is common in the developed world.
- B12 (cyanocobalamin): B12 primarily assists in proper function of the brain and nervous system. It also helps the body to absorb iron. B12 deficiency has been linked to Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis and migraines. A recent study conducted by the Framington Heart Study found that one in every four Americans are deficient in B12.
- Biotin (Vitamin H): Biotin is needed by your body to metabolize fats, carbohydrates and amino acids, the building blocks of protein. Biotin can also help strengthen hair and nails. Consistent yet controversial research also links biotin to “vitamin-mediated drug targeting,” where chemo drugs can be “carried” to specific cancer tumor cells via biotin.
- B17 (Laetrile): Laetrile is an interesting “B” vitamin in that it is really not a vitamin at all. B17 was create by biochemist Dr. Ernest Krebbs and is a concentrated form of naturally-occurring amagdylin, found in apricot seeds. It is known for its controversy as well as for its cancer-fighting properties. Krebbs named his formula B17 because its structure most resembled a B-complex vitamin.
Where Do You Get Your B’s?
By far, the best way to get sufficient amount of B vitamins (minus B17) is through the foods you eat. Here is a list of just a few of the food sources where B’s can be found naturally:
- Avocado
- Eggs (biotin)
- Brewer’s Yeast
- Coconut
- Rhubard
- Figs (biotin)
- Rosemary
- Chlorella
- Black Currants
- Spaghetti Squash
- Spirulina
- Lemons
- Pears
- Organic, hormone free milk, fish and meat
B vitamins are water-soluble as opposed to fat-soluble. With the exception of those who may have severe liver issues (such as alcoholics), excess B is usually eliminated through the urine in a relatively short amount of time.
Many nutritional experts suggest taking a B-Complex for overall health; some suggest taking it especially to boost the immune systems of those who ingest cannabis regularly through smoking. Given the hundreds of complications that can result through deficiencies, adding a dye-free, liquid or sublingual B-Complex supplement from a reputable source is a step you can take towards overall vibrant health.
References:
- http://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/food-nutrition/vitamin-supplements/vitamin-b.htm
- https://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/supplement/
- http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22116703 – cancer and B6
- http://www.omicsonline.org/open-access/new-perspectives-in-cancer-therapy-the-biotinantitumor-molecule-conjugates-2161-0444.S1-004.php?aid=26373
- http://www.drweil.com/app/cda/drw_cda.html-command=TodayQA-questionId=4056
- https://www.framinghamheartstudy.org/
Dr. Veronique Desaulniers (“Dr. V”) is a best-selling author and specialist in Chiropractic, Bio-Energetics, Meridian Stress Analysis, Homeopathy and Digital Thermography. After 30 years in active practice, she decided to “retire” and devote her time to sharing her personal, non-toxic Breast Cancer healing journey with others. Her years of experience and research have culminated in “The 7 Essentials™ “, a step-by-step coaching program that unravels the mystery of healing the body. Her website and personal healing journey have touched the lives of thousands of women around the globe. To get your F.R.E.E. 7-day mini e-course and to receive her weekly inspiring articles on the power of Natural Medicine, visit http://breastcancerconqueror.com/.