This is why B group vitamins are a boon for your brain health

Your brain needs nutrients for proper functioning, and guess what? B group vitamins feature at the top of this list!
foods rich in vitamin B12
A deficiency of vitamin B can result in impaired mental function and low energy. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
Aayushi Gupta Published: 16 Jul 2021, 17:59 pm IST
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Our brain is the most important organ, and while we may not pay much heed, it requires a steady supply of nutrients to stay healthy. One such group of nutrients is B vitamins, which are considered essential. These are a collection of eight water-soluble vitamins that are critical for various metabolic processes. Vitamin B6, B9 (folate) and B12 are the major B group vitamins, which support the functioning and health of the brain as well as the nervous system. 

These vitamins are medically proven to relieve stress and boost your brain power. In fact, they also fight depression, restrict brain ageing and help you live a longer life. The subtypes of vitamin B perform a range of vital roles in keeping your brain working efficiently.

Here’s how the B vitamin helps in keeping your brain healthy:
1. Prevents mental decline

A diet that includes vitamin B complex helps boost mental health, while a deficiency could negatively influence your mental function, causing cognitive impairment and dementia. The three vitamin types that help to avoid a mental decline are B6, B12, and B9 (folic acid). In fact, these vitamins can also prevent Alzheimer’s disease. 

vitamin B for brain health
Vitamin B can prevent brain ageing. Image courtesy: Shutterstock
2. Keeps mental disorders at bay

The brain is a highly complex structure and needs constant maintenance. Vitamin B12 is a key component to protect your brain. Its deficiency may lead to mental disorders like brain atrophy, brain shrinkage, depression, confusion, and schizophrenia. But you can avoid these conditions by taking vitamin B12 supplements. 

3. Provides energy

Multiple B vitamins, including thiamine, riboflavin, and pantothenic acid play a crucial role in the cellular metabolic processes that turn the food you eat into glucose. This gives energy, while vitamin B12 (cobalamin) helps promote the development of red blood cells that carry oxygen to the brain. 

vitamin B for brain health
It is one of the most important vitamins that you need to consume to keep your brain healthy! Image courtesy: Shutterstock
4. Acts as a dopamine booster

Dopamine is a type of neurotransmitter. The brain’s function relies on the proper functioning of the neurotransmitter. Your body makes it and the nervous system uses it to send messages between nerve cells. Neurotransmitters are produced within our nervous system via the interaction of various chemicals, including several B vitamins. This helps to ensure your brain’s well-being. 

5. Improves your memory

B vitamins play a key role in ensuring that the brain achieves its full potential. It helps maintain healthy nerve cells and red blood cells. Enough supply of vitamin B in your body can improve memory and help to sharpen your cells. 

vitamin B for brain health
B group vitamins keep your brain sharp and healthy! Image courtesy: Shutterstock
6. Detoxifies your blood

Vitamin B12, B6, and B9 all help to prevent long-term damage to brain tissues. These vitamins are needed to make red blood cells that carry oxygen to all parts of your body, including the brain. What’s more, they ensure your brain stays energized and focused.

Now you know why B group vitamins are vital for normal brain development. So, make sure to include these foods in your diet!

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About the Author

Aayushi Gupta is a health writer with a special interest in trends related to diet, fitness, beauty and intimate health. With around 2 years of experience in the wellness industry, she is connected to leading experts and doctors to provide our readers with factually correct information. ...Read More

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