B-Complex
The B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12) are essential coenzymes in brain energy metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and methylation reactions. Deficiency in any B vitamin impairs cognitive function. B12 and folate deficiency specifically cause irreversible neurological damage if untreated. A high-quality B-complex is foundational for any nootropic regimen, particularly for vegetarians, older adults, and those under chronic stress.
Dosage
Standard: A quality B-complex providing 25-100 mg of B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, plus 400-800 mcg folate (as methylfolate) and 500-1000 mcg B12 (as methylcobalamin). Methylated forms preferred for B9 and B12 (folate → methylfolate, B12 → methylcobalamin). Take in the morning — B vitamins can be mildly energizing.
Dosages shown are for research reference only. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Half-Life
Water-soluble; excreted daily (except B12 which is stored)
Administration
Oral (capsules, tablets, sublingual). Methylated forms preferred for B9 and B12. Take with breakfast.
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Mechanism of Action
Each B vitamin serves specific neurological functions: B1 (thiamine) — cofactor for transketolase (pentose phosphate pathway), pyruvate dehydrogenase, and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase; essential for glucose metabolism and ATP production in neurons. B2 (riboflavin) — precursor to FAD/FMN, cofactors for Complex I and II of the electron transport chain, and glutathione reductase. B3 (niacin/niacinamide) — precursor to NAD+/NADPH via the salvage pathway; NAD+ is substrate for sirtuins, PARP, and 400+ dehydrogenases. B5 (pantothenic acid) — component of coenzyme A, required for acetylcholine synthesis via choline acetyltransferase and for fatty acid oxidation. B6 (pyridoxine) — cofactor for AADC (5-HTP to serotonin, L-DOPA to dopamine), GABA synthesis (GAD), and homocysteine metabolism. B9 (folate) — tetrahydrofolate donates methyl groups for dTMP and purine synthesis, and for homocysteine remethylation. B12 (cobalamin) — cofactor for methionine synthase (myelin maintenance) and methylmalonyl-CoA mutase.
Regulatory Status
Dietary supplement worldwide. B vitamins are essential nutrients with established RDAs.
Risks & Safety
Common
Bright yellow urine (harmless — riboflavin excretion), mild nausea.
Serious
Very safe at standard doses. B6 can cause peripheral neuropathy at >200 mg daily for extended periods.
Rare
Flushing from niacin (B3) if non-flush form is not used.
Compare B-Complex With
Research Papers
10Published: May 6, 1997
AI Summary
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome, which is associated with high morbidity and mortality, is a more common neuropsychiatric sequela of alcohol misuse than is widely realized. It is easily prevented and treated with parenteral B-complex vitamins, although this treatment is widely under-utilized.
Published: September 24, 2024
AI Summary
It is proven that B vitamins through promote a wide range of metabolic pathways in animals as cofactors improve animal performance.
Published: March 31, 2017
AI Summary
Whether actually a drug-nutrient interaction exists between ginsenoside Re and B-complex vitamins is still unknown. The study results will provide valuable theoretical guidance for the combined utilization of ginseng and B-complex vitamins.
Published: January 9, 2024
AI Summary
According to the results, the performance (body weight and dry matter intake) of goats and kids improved in B-complex vitamins group compared to the control group (P < 0.05). These results suggest that maternal Bcomplex vitamin injection is required for the improvement of performance, hematological status, and antioxidant status in ...
Published: June 26, 1958
AI Summary
Abstract too short to summarize.
Published: December 31, 1978
AI Summary
The results of the study showed a significant association between presence of clinical signs of vitamin B-complex deficiency and defective vision. 3. Supplementation with vitamin B-complex was found to have a beneficial effect in improving the visual-acuity status of defective children and in preventing visual defects from developing. 4.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is B-Complex used for?
The B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B9, B12) are essential coenzymes in brain energy metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and methylation reactions. Deficiency in any B vitamin impairs cognitive function. B12 and folate deficiency specifically cause irreversible neurological damage if untreated. A high-quality B-complex is foundational for any nootropic regimen, particularly for vegetarians, older adults, and those under chronic stress.
What are the side effects of B-Complex?
Common: Bright yellow urine (harmless — riboflavin excretion), mild nausea. Serious: Very safe at standard doses. B6 can cause peripheral neuropathy at >200 mg daily for extended periods. Rare: Flushing from niacin (B3) if non-flush form is not used.
How is B-Complex administered?
B-Complex is administered via oral (capsules, tablets, sublingual). methylated forms preferred for b9 and b12. take with breakfast..
What is the half-life of B-Complex?
The half-life of B-Complex is Water-soluble; excreted daily (except B12 which is stored).
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