Often overlooked, B vitamins play an essential role in many bodily functions. They can help with energy production and cell growth and are necessary for the formation of red blood cells.
While most Americans get enough B complex vitamins from a balanced diet, some may need extra. This is why it’s always a good idea to check with your doctor before taking a vitamin supplement.
Fatigue
Fatigue is a feeling of tiredness or lack of energy. Various conditions, illnesses, medications and lifestyle factors can cause it.
Most of the time, fatigue is a sign that something is wrong and needs to be treated. Your doctor may use several tests to find out the cause.
If you are experiencing chronic fatigue, your healthcare team may suggest a vitamin B complex supplement to help you feel better. This supplement is essential for various health benefits, including staying healthy.
You can supplement or eat foods rich in vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid. But be careful not to take too many of these supplements.
In addition to causing peripheral neuropathy, too much vitamin B6 can cause skin flush and liver damage.
If you have a chronic medical condition, such as diabetes, your doctor may recommend a B-vitamin complex supplement to improve your energy levels. Your doctor will also assess your diet to see if you get enough essential vitamins and minerals.
Diarrhea
It may be a sign of dehydration if you have diarrhea more than three times a day and aren’t drinking enough fluids. That can cause organ damage, low blood pressure, and even coma or death.
Additionally, it can indicate a severe medical condition like celiac disease, which impairs food absorption in the small intestine. You should also visit a doctor if you have blood in your stool.
Diarrhea is the body’s natural way of getting rid of a parasite. They are usually found in raw or undercooked fish, meats, or vegetables and can make you feel ill.
It is called chronic diarrhea if diarrhea lasts longer than 14 days. It’s not as common as acute diarrhea but can signify something more serious, like a parasite infection or a chronic illness.
Depression
Depression is one of the most common conditions that affect people. It causes feelings of sadness, worthlessness and guilt that can impact your day-to-day life and make it difficult to function normally.
Depression can be severe and must be treated by a healthcare professional. If you have symptoms of depression that last at least two weeks and aren’t linked to another medical condition, talk with your doctor.
Your doctor can also help you find the proper treatment for you. They may suggest medication, therapy or a combination of both.
The key to getting rid of depression is to address the underlying causes. That can include stress, anxiety, unhealthy thoughts or habits.
B vitamins, like DNA formation and gene expression, are essential to your body’s core processes. If you’re deficient in these vitamins, it can lead to fatigue, mood swings and irritability. You can get these vitamins through your diet, but if you’re not eating enough vegetables or other healthy sources of B-complex vitamins, a supplement can be a great way to boost your levels.
Insomnia
Insomnia is a common problem affecting your energy, mood, and ability to function during the day. If you’re struggling with insomnia, consult a doctor immediately.
Several factors can cause or worsen insomnia. These include medical issues, medications, and stress-related events.
A doctor may recommend a person change their sleep habits or address stress before prescribing a medication. If that doesn’t help, a doctor may refer the patient to a sleep specialist for treatment.
Medications can also interfere with sleep, including some antidepressants, asthma or blood pressure medications, and over-the-counter pain relievers that contain caffeine .
Insomnia is often associated with other health problems, such as sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, and circadian rhythm disturbances linked to jet lag or shift work. These conditions are treatable, and if you’re experiencing chronic insomnia, your doctor may recommend a vitamin B complex supplement.
High Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is often a sign of an underlying health issue, such as hyperthyroidism or kidney disease. If you have these conditions, your doctor may recommend medicines to help control your blood pressure.
The American Heart Association states healthy blood pressure is lower than 120 over 80 mm Hg. Anyone reading above this is at risk of health problems related to high blood pressure, such as heart attack, stroke, and vascular dementia.
A good diet and exercise plan are essential to lowering your levels if you have high blood pressure. However, depending on your health and current blood pressure levels, you may need to take medications and vitamin supplements in addition to these changes.