vitamin B

VITAMIN B
 INTRODUCTION…

• B vitamins are group of eight essential nutrients that

play roles in many organs and bodily systems.

• Although they can work together in the body, they

also carry out their own unique functions.

• They are water soluble and must be replenished

daily as they are not stored in the body.
 TYPES OF VITAMIN B
• There are eight types of B vitamin, each with their own
function:
 Thiamine(Vitamin B1)
 Riboflavin(Vitamin B2)
 Niacin(Vitamin B3)
 Pantothenic acid(Vitamin B5)
 Pyridoxine(Vitamin B6)
 Biotin(Vitamin B7)
 Folate(Vitamin B9)
 Cyanocobalamin(Vitamin B12)
• Together, they are called the vitamin B
complex.
• B vitamins often occur together in the same
foods. Many people can get enough B vitamins
by eating a variety of nutrient-dense foods.
• However, those who struggle to meet their
daily needs can use supplements.
People may develop B vitamin deficiencies if:
they do not get enough of the vitamins from
their diet or supplements
their body cannot absorb nutrients properly

their body eliminate too much of them due to

certain health conditions or medications
• At times all the B vitamins work together to keep the body functioning in
a healthy manner.

• Working together they are needed for the following:

 The proper functioning of the body’s metabolic system

 Converting carbohydrates to glucose

 Promoting all cell growth, reproduction and division

 RNA and DNA synthesis

 Protecting the body from cardiovascular disease

 Strengthening the immune system
 Maintaining and enhancing the function of the
nervous system
 Helping the digestive system to work properly
 Maintaining healthy muscle tone and skin
 Reducing the risk of certain types of cancer,
especially pancreatic cancer
 Fighting depression, anxiety and stress
 Improving memory
Thiamine (vitamin B1)
 SOURCES OF VITAMIN B1
Thiamin is present in:
• whole grains and fortified bread, cereal, pasta, and rice
• pork
• trout
• mussels
• acorn squash
• legumes, such as black beans and soybeans
• seeds
• nuts
 ABSORPTION

• Thiamine is released by the action of phosphatase

and pyrophosphatase in the upper small intestine. At
low concentrations, the process is carrier-mediated
and at higher concentrations, absorption occurs via
passive diffusion.
• Active transport is greatest in the jejunum and ileum.
It is inhibited by alcohol consumption and by folic
deficiency.
• Decline in thiamine absorption occurs at intakes
above 5 mg.
 FACTOR MIGHT AFFECT ABSORPTION OF
VITAMIN B1
• Chronic intestine disease
• Alcoholism
• Malnutrition
• Gastric bypass surgery
• Malabsorption syndrome-celiac and tropical sprue

• Folate deficiency-for example, in patients

undergoing chemotherapy with high dose
methotrexate
 FACTOR MIGHT AFFECT ABSORPTION OF
VITAMIN B1
• Prolonged diarrhea
• Hyperthyroidism
• Use of high dose diuretics
• Diabetes
• HIV/AIDS
• Old age
DEFICIENCY OF VITAMIN B1 AND ITS EFFECT
IN THE BODY PHYSIOLOGY

• Since Vitamin B1 Deficiency can affect several

functions of the body, the condition can
present itself in various ways and generally has
non-specific symptoms.
• Nonetheless, some of the signs and symptoms
indicative of Vitamin B1 Deficiency are:
 Signs and symptoms indicative of Vitamin
B1 Deficiency
• Fatigue
• Edema (swelling of body tissues)
• Reduced reflexes of the knee, ankle and triceps
• Tingling sensation of ‘pins and needles’ in arms and legs
• Weight loss
• Loss of Appetite
• Irritability
• Weakness and pain in the limbs
• Blurry Vision, due to swelling of the optic nerve
• Periods of irregular or abnormally slow heart rate
 Signs and symptoms indicative of Vitamin
B1 Deficiency
• Impaired sensory perception
• Nausea, Vomiting, or Constipation
• Shortness of breath
• Emotional disturbances
• Confusion and memory loss
 ROLES OF VITAMIN B1 IN DIFFERENT
ASPECTS
 It acts as coenzyme in carbohydrate metabolism
 To Provide energy in the brain
 To improve transmission of nerve impulses by providing
nerves with energy
 The normal function of the heart by increase the efficiency
of heart muscles
 An “ant stress “vitamin like other B vitamins, it helps
strengthens the immune system and improves our bodies
abilities to withstand harmful situations.
 CASES ON WHICH CAN BE TREATED WITH
VITAMIN B1
 Beriberi
Low levels of thiamine can be severe or chronic form
known as beriberi.
There are two main types in adults:
• wet beriberi and
• dry beriberi

Wet beriberi affects the cardiovascular system resulting in

a fast heart rate, shortness of breath, and leg swelling.
 CASES ON WHICH CAN BE TREATED WITH
VITAMIN B1
• Dry beriberi affects the nervous system
resulting in numbness of the hands and feet,
confusion, trouble moving the legs, and pain.
• Another type, acute beriberi, is found mostly
in babies and presents with loss of appetite,
vomiting, lactic acidosis, changes in heart rate,
and enlargement of the heart.
 CASES ON WHICH CAN BE TREATED WITH
VITAMIN B1
 Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome
Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome is a brain disorder caused by
thiamine deficiency.
It involves damage to nerves in the central and peripheral
nervous systems.
It is often caused by malnutrition due to alcoholism. It is
characterized by memory problems and nerve damage.
High doses of thiamine can improve muscle coordination
and confusion, but rarely improves memory loss.
• Other diseases which can be treated with
vitamin B1includes:
 cataracts
 Alzheimer disease
 heart failure.
 Riboflavin (vitamin B2)
• Vitamin B2 is one of the eight B vitamins that
are essential for human health. It is also
known as riboflavin, vitamin B2 is water
soluble.
 SOURCES OF VITAMIN B2

Riboflavin occurs naturally in some food and also

it can be taken as supplement.

Food sources include:

 fish, meat, eggs ,dairy products ,mushrooms,
sweet potatoes ,grains ,yeast extracts ,green
leafy vegetables ,tomatoes ,almond etc
 ABSORPTION OF VITAMIN B2

• Vitamin B2 is absorbed through the walls of

the small intestine and is carried by the blood
to the tissues of our body.
• The absorption is limited by the duration of
vitamin B2 contact time with the absorption
site. GI absorption increases when riboflavin is
administered with food and decreases when
hepatitis, cirrhosis, biliary obstruction or
probenecid administration is present.
 FACTORS AFFECTING THE ABSORBTION OF VITAMIN B2

• Drug interaction
This involves several drugs such as:
 Probenecid; this medication is used for gout. It
decreases the absorption of riboflavin from the
GIT and increases the excretion in the urine.
 Anticholinergic drugs; these drugs increase the
GIT transit time and therefore enhance the
absorption by increasing the riboflavin contact
time with absorption site.
 FACTORS AFFECTING THE ABSORBTION OF
VITAMIN B2
 Doxorubicin, a drug used in cancer therapy, may
deplete levels of riboflavin.
 Hormonal contraceptives; Decrease riboflavin level.
• Site of absorption
Riboflavin is absorbed at the proximal small intestine
therefore increase in intestinal transit time tend to
increase the contact time of riboflavin to its absorption
site and this increases the extent of absorption.
• Alcohol use; Impairs intestinal absorption of vitamin B2.
 ROLES OF VITAMIN B2

 Vitamin B2 helps break down proteins, fats, and

carbohydrates. it plays a vital role in maintaining the
body’s energy supply.
 Helps the nervous system to function efficiently
 Aids in cellular growth
 Assisting in the metabolism of other vitamins
essential in maintaining healthy liver
 Maintain mucous membrane in the digestive system
 Fetal development, especially in areas where vitamin
deficiency is common
 DEFICIENCY OF VITAMIN B2

• Vitamin B2 deficiency is a significant risk when diet is poor,

because the human body excretes vitamins continuously, so it is
not stored. Person with vitamin B2 deficiency normally lacks other
vitamins too.
• There are two types of riboflavin deficiency:
1. Primary riboflavin deficiency happens when the persons diet is
poor in vitamin B2.
2. Secondary riboflavin deficiency happens for other reasons, maybe
because the intestine cannot absorb the vitamin properly, or the
body cannot use it, or because it is being excreted too rapidly.
Riboflavin deficiency is also known as ariboflavinosis.
Signs and symptoms of deficiency include

• Angular cheilitis, or cracks at the corners of the

mouth
• Dry skin
• Inflammation of the lining of the mouth and the
tongue
• Mouth ulcers, Red lips and Sore throat
• Ion deficiency anemia
• Eyes may be sensitive to bright light and they may
be itchy, watery or bloodshot.
 CASES THAT CAN BE TREATED WITH VITAMIN B2

Two conditions in which riboflavin might play a role are

migraine headaches and anemia.
• Migraines; mitochondrial dysfunction is thought to
play a causal role in some types of migraine, because
riboflavin is required for mitochondrial function, there
for its potential in prevention and treatment of
migraine headaches.
• VitaminB2 plays important adjunct role in treating
anemia as well as sickle cell anemia, two condition
that are associated with low levels of vitamin B2.
VITAMIN B6

(PYRIDOXINE)
 Molecular structure of vitamin B6 is shown below;

 
 
 
The name of vitamin B6 is called pyridoxine
Food sources of vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is found in a variety of animal and plant foods.
• Animal sources include; beef liver, salmon, poultry, fish
• Plant sources include; vegetables especially dark leafy greens,
beans, potatoes, grains, nuts, bananas, papayas and oranges.
 Vitamin B6 Absorption
• Our bodies absorb vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, in the small
intestine. Before absorption, a phosphate group must be
removed, allowing B6 to be a free molecule. Then, the vitamin is
absorbed from the intestine into the blood without the need of
energy. This process is called passive diffusion. Once in the blood,
vitamin B6 can function and promote health.
Improving Absorption
• Increasing your intake of vitamin B6  can help improve absorption.
Healthy adults require 1.3 milligrams of B6 every day. Meeting the
recommendations should provide sufficient amounts to maintain
health and proper absorption in healthy individuals. Other ways to
increase absorption include decreasing your alcohol consumption,
taking supplements and maintaining digestive health.
Factors which might affect absorption of vitamin B6
Certain conditions can increase the risk of developing a
deficiency by interfering with the absorption of vitaminB6
These are;

• Autoimmune intestinal disorders like celiac disease, ulcerative

colitis, and Crohn’s disease
• Autoimmune inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid
arthritis
• alcoholism
• Prolonged diarrhea
 Vitamin B6 deficiency
•Deficiencies are rare, but they may occur if the individual has poor
intestinal absorption or is taking estrogens, corticosteroids,
anticonvulsants, and some other medications.
•Long-term, excessive alcohol consumption may eventually result in a B6
deficiency, as can hypothyroidism and diabetes
Signs and symptoms of vitamin B6 deficiency include:
•Peripheral neuropathy with tingling, numbness, and pain in the hands
and feet
•Microcytic anemia
•Epileptic seizures
•Depression
•Confusion
•Weakened immunity
•Seborrheic dermatitis
 The role of vitamin B6 in different aspects;
• Vitamin B6 is required in fetal brain development during pregnancy
and infancy as well.
• Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is required for the synthesis of the
neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine and for myelin
formation.
Vitamin B6 make antibodies and IL-2 production, which are key to a
strong immune system.
• Vitamin B6 plays a role in the metabolism of protein, carbohydrates
and fats.
• Production of hemoglobin and formation of red blood cells and keep
nerve tissue healthy.
• Vitamin B6 in supplement form shows the most promise for the
treatment of pregnancy-induced nausea
 The following are the cases that can be treated with vitamin
B6;
• Toxicological emergences. Pyridoxine is the emergency
antidote for isoniazid (INH) overdose, ethylene glycol,
hydralazine, and gyromitrin mushroom poisoning.
• Pre menstrual disorder (PMS).  Vitamin B6 has been used to
treat symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, including
anxiety, depression and irritability due to its role in creating
neurotransmitters that regulate mood ( serotonin, dopamine)
 VITAMIN B7

INTRODUCTION
• Biotin, also known as vitamin H or B7, is a
water-soluble vitamin that helps the body
metabolize fats, carbohydrates, and protein.
Water-soluble vitamins are not stored in the
body so daily intake is necessary.
MOLECULAR STRUCTURE OF VITAMIN B7
 SOURCES OF VITAMIN B7 (BIOTIN)

• Food should be the first choice when looking for sources of

biotin. Biotin in foods usually binds to protein. Foods that are
rich in biotin include:
• baker’s yeast
• wheat bran
• organ meats
• cooked, whole eggs
• oysters
Raw eggs contain a protein called avidin that inhibits the
absorption of biotin. Eating two or more raw egg whites a day
for several months has been linked to biotin deficiency
 ABSORPTION OF BIOTIN(VITAMIN B7)

• Humans and other mammals cannot synthesize biotin and

thus must obtain the vitamin from exogenous sources via
intestinal absorption. The human intestine is exposed to 2
sources of biotin: a dietary source, and a bacterial source,
which is normal microflora of the large intestine.
• Absorption of free biotin in the small and large intestine
involves a saturable and Na+-dependent carrier-mediated
process that is shared with panthothenic acid and lipoate.
For this reason, the involved transport system is referred
to as the sodium-dependent multivitamin transporter
(SMVT); in humans, it is designated as hSMVT.
 FACTORS WHICH MAY AFFECT ABSORPTION
OF VITAMIN B7
• AVIDIN
Avidin is a glycoprotein found in egg white
which binds biotin very tightly and specifically
and is resistant to pancreatic enzymes. Thus
dietary avidin binds to dietary biotin,
inhibiting its absorption and if exposure is
prolonged, deficient states can result.
 DEFICIENCY OF BIOTIN AND ITS EFFECTS IN
THE BODY PHYSIOLOGY
Biotin deficiency is rare in humans, because biotin is widely
available in foods, and the “good” gut bacteria can normally
synthesize more biotin than the body needs. Signs of deficiency
include:
• hair loss, or alopecia
• a scaly, red rash around the eyes, nose, mouth, and genitals
• hallucinations
• a loss of control of bodily movements, known as ataxia
• seizures
• impaired immune function
• increased risk of bacterial and fungal infection
 Biotin deficiency is most likely to arise in
• women during pregnancy
• patients receiving prolonged intravenous nutrition
• infants who consume breastmilk with low amounts of biotin
• patients with impaired biotin absorption due to an
inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) or other gastrointestinal
(GI) tract disorder
• people who smoke
• those who use medications for epilepsy, such as
phenobarbital, phenytoin, or carbamazepine
• those with some kinds of liver disease
Biotinidase deficiency
• Biotinidase deficiency is another cause of biotin
deficiency. This is an autosomal recessive
metabolic disorder.
• In people with this condition, the body does not
produce enough of the enzyme needed to
release biotin from proteins in the diet during
digestion or from normal protein turnover in
the cell.
ROLES OF VITAMIN B7 IN DIFFERENT ASPECTS

The body needs biotin to metabolize fats,

carbohydrates, and protein. It is a coenzyme for
carboxylase enzymes. These enzymes are
involved in:
• synthesizing, or creating, fatty acids
• synthesizing the amino acids isoleucine and
valine
• gluconeogenesis, or generating glucose
• Biotin is important for a number of functions.
Maintaining a healthy pregnancy
• Mild biotin deficiency is often seen during pregnancy. It can lead
to abnormal development in the fetus. Folic acid
supplementation is recommended both the year before and
during pregnancy. It is sensible to obtain a multivitamin that
provides at least 30 mcg of biotin per day, in addition to folic acid,
to decrease the risk of a deficiency.
Lowering blood glucose
• Several studies have tested biotin’s ability to lower blood glucose
in people with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Results have been
promising. In animal, bioti stimulate the secretion of insulin from
the pancreas and subsequently to lower blood glucose.
Controlling neuropathy
• It may also help reduce nerve damage in people who have
diabetes or who are undergoing dialysis for kidney disease.
Biotin is necessary for the activity of pyruvate carboxylase.
Without this, high levels of pyruvate and aspartate may
arise, and this can adversely affect the nerves
Nails, hair, and skin
• There is some evidence that biotin may improve the
strength and durability of fingernails and enhance hair and
skin health.
 CASES WHICH CAN BE TREATED WITH
VITAMIN B7
• Biotin-responsive basal ganglia disease
• This is a rare, inherited disorder. It affects a
part of the nervous system that controls
movement. It can lead to involuntary tensing
of muscles, muscle rigidity, muscle weakness,
and other problems.
• The condition appears to respond to
treatment with thiamin and biotin
 VITAMIN B9( Folic Acid)

•Vitamin B9 is also known as folic acid or folate ,

synthetic folate compound used in vitamin
supplements because of it's increased stability.

•The name comes from "folium" which is the latin

word for leaves because folate were first isolated
from spinach.
VITAMIN B9 (Folic Acid)
 VITAMIN B9 (Folic Acid)
•
SOURCES OF VITAMIN B9
•Sources of animal origin
•Milk and milk product
•Yeast
•Vegetables
•Fruits
•Beans
•Peas
•Beef and Chicken
 VITAMIN B9 (Folic Acid)
ROLES OF VITAMIN B9

•During early pregnancy ddevelopment, folic acid

helps form the neural tube. Folic acid is very
important because it can help prevent some major
birth defects of the baby’s brain (anencephaly) and
spine (spina bifida).
•Folic acid works closely with vitamin B12 to help make
RBC and helps iron works properly in the body
 VITAMIN B9 (Folic Acid)

•DNA Synthesis

Folate derivatives participate in the biosynthesis of both purines and pyrimidines.

Formyl folate is required for two of the steps in the biosynthesis of inosine
monophosphate, the precursor to GMP and AMP. Methylenetetrahydrofolate
donates the C1 center required for the biosynthesis of dTMP (2′-deoxythymidine-
5′-phosphate) from dUMP (2′-deoxyuridine-5′-phosphate). The conversion is
catalyzed by thymidylate synthase
 VITAMIN B9 (Folic Acid)

•Support cell production especially on skin.

• Helps in preventing osteoporosis -related bone

fractures.

•Folic acid is essential in the formation of

SAME(S-adenosyl-L-methionine) and may exert
its effect on mood.
 VITAMIN B9 (Folic Acid)

ABSORPTION OF VITAMIN B9

•Folates are absorbed primarily in the duodenum

ad jejunum within the microenvironment at the cell
surface.

Absorptions
• is somewhat greater in the proximal
than in the distal jejunum which, in turn in which
greater than in the ileum.
FACTORS AFFECTING ABSORPTION OF VITAMIN B9

Cooking techniques
Cooking techniques vary from sautéing, boiling, baking, or
roasting and these techniques can influence the
vitamin/mineral content of foods—both positively or
negatively.
Vitamins that works together with vitamin B9
Both of these vitamins are often added to breakfast cereals
and
other foods (where folate is added to cereal grains by law)
and are important for cell division and
replicationreplication
Health conditions and lifestyle factors
• Some health conditions can impact how your
body absorbs vitamins. For example, infectious
illnesses can impact the absorption of vitamins
through increased losses in the gastrointestinal
tract.
• Smoking is a lifestyle factor that can impact how
your body absorbs vitamins, hence this will also
impair the absorption of vitamin B9.
• Certain anticonvulsant (such as phentony and
phernobarbital)and drugs used to treat
ulcerative colitis ( such as
sulfasalazine )decrease the absorption of this
vitamin.
• The mechanism of folate malabsorption was
due to inactivation of folate deconjugating
enzymes in the intestinal mucosa.
 VITAMIN B9 (Folic Acid)
DEFICIENCY OF VITAMIN B9
Lack of enough folic acid may lead to the following conditions;
•Nutritional macrocytic anaemia, Means the red blood cells are larger than
normal.

•Megaloblastic anemia, A condition where by Red blood cells are not fully
developed and larger than usual and this prevent the individual from transport
enough oxygen around the body.
•Reduced level of DNA synthesis
•Weight loss and diarrhoea
•For the pregnant women, the baby may have birth defect of spinal cord
(Neural tube defect).
 VITAMIN B9 (Folic Acid)

CAUSES OF FOLIC ACID DEFICIENCY

• The main causes is decrease dietary intake in:

- this occurs most often in elders people who do not eating enough foods
containing folic acid.
-Alcoholism
-chronic diseases.
some uncommon condition of the gut may cause poor absorption of folic
•
acid. Forexample coelic disease.
 VITAMIN B9 (Folic Acid)

•Pregnant women and breast feeding people undergoing dialysis may develop
this deficiency because their need for folic acid is increased as:
-For pregnant women -800mcg are required daily
-For lactating women -600mcg are required daily

For Other groups

-Adult -400mcg-500mcg are required daily
-Infants-50mcg
-Children-100mcg-300mcg
VITAMIN B 12
Vitamin B12
• Is also called cobalamin which is a water soluble vitamin. Is
an essential nutrient which is involved with a lot of process
in the human body. Vitamin B12 has the key role in the
normal functioning of the Brain and spinal cord and the
formation Red Blood Cells (RBCs).
• Vitamin B12 is an integral to normal energy of metabolism
in all Cells of Human body as well as Amino and Fatty acids
metabolism.
• Vitamin B12 structurally is the largest and most Complex of
all the vitamins known to man.
Structure of vitamin B12
Sources of Vitamin B12
• Food remain to be the primary source for the Vit
B12.The best source being the following;
• Eggs, Milk, Cheese, milk products, Meat, fish,
Soybean, rice beverages.
• Supplement is the secondary source to individuals who
have deficiency of this vitamin.
• This supplements forms available are parenteral
preparations (injectable) and oral preparations(Tablets)
Absorption &Metabolism
• Vitamin B12 occur as conjugate
• Vitamin B12 from foods is released by the action of
gastric HCl and proteases. A special compound called
Intrinsic Factor then binds to the Vit B12, and this
complex travels down to the ileum where it is actively
absorbed and transported into the blood.
• Vitamin B12 is stored in the liver after it is absorbed.
Stored for as long as 3 – 5 years, the excess is excreted
in the urine and bile.
How to influence the absorption of vitamin B12
• To increase the amount of vitamin B12 in your diet,
eat ore food that contain it, such as:
• Beef, liver, and chicken
• Fish, and shellfish such as trout, salmon, tuna fish,
and clams
• Fortified breakfast cereal
• Low fat milk, yogurt, and cheese
• Eggs
Factors which might affect absorption of vitamin B12
• The following conditions can cause absorption to be inadequate:
• Overgrowth of bacteria in part of the small intestine
• Impaired absorption (malabsorption disorders such as inflammatory
bowel disease, celiac disease, or certain pancreatic disorders)
• Fish tapeworm infection
• Surgery that removes the part of the small intestine where vitamin
B12 is absorbed 
• Drugs such as antacids and metformin (used to treat diabetes)
• Repeated exposure to nitrous oxide (laughing gas)
• Lack of intrinsic factor.
• Decreased stomach acidity (common among older people) 
Deficiency
• A severe vitamin B12 deficiency may damage
nerves, causing tingling or loss of sensation in
the hands and feet, muscle weakness, loss of
reflexes, difficulty walking, confusion, and
dementia.
• Since vitamin B12 is essential in formation of
red blood cell therefore its deficiency leads to
Pernicious anemia (lack of intrinsic factor)
Vitamin B12 is extremely important in the following
aspects
• DNA Synthesis or DNA regulation,
• Normal functioning of the brain.
• Health of the Myelin sheath and nerve conduction.
• Bone marrow health.
• Blood formation.
 
Cases to be treated with vitamin B12
• Treatment: -
• pernicious anemia usually requires daily
supplementation with 1,000 mcg of vitamin B12;
oral forms may be sufficient but vitamin B12
injections are more.
• Used by pregnant mothers to prevent major
birth effect such as spinal bifida or neural tube
defect.
ROLE OF VITAMIN B IN
METABOLISM
 THIAMINE (B1)
• It’s the part of the coenzyme thiamin pyrophosphate.
• It play a critical role in the breakdown of glucose for
energy and act as a coenzyme in the metabolism of
branch chain amino acids; leucine, isoleucine and valine.
• It helps in reaction that make RNA and DNA, this are
energy rich molecules that pray part in the protein
synthesis.
• Also helps in maintaining cognitive abilities because it
produce high level of branch chain amino acids that
reduce central fatigue.
 RIBOFLAVIN (B2)
• Also is the part of two coenzyme,(flavin
mononucleotide and flavin adenine dinucleotide).
• These two enzyme participate in the oxidation
reduction pathways during energy production
within the metabolic pathways
• It’s the part of antioxidant enzyme glutathione
peroxidase, as an antioxidant helps in removing
free radicals which a by product of many
physiological process in the body.
 NIACIN (B3)
• It also known as nicotinamide or nicotinic acid.
• It also a coenzyme that assist in the
metabolism of carbohydrates and fatty acids,
especially during increase energy expenditure.
• Also helps DNA replication ,repair and
differentiation.
 PYRODOXINE (B6)
• It’s the group of six compound, which have three group
having phosphate group while three other does not
have.
• It have different function in metabolism as follows;
1. It have more that 100 enzymes involved in metabolism
of amino acids.
2. Crucial in the process known as transamination.
3. Helps in synthesis of the oxygen carrying hemoglobin
4. Help in producing neurotransmitter.
5. It helps derivaring oxygen through out the body.
 COBALAMIN (B12)
• It assist in formation of blood , transformations folate
into active form.
• Also maintain the myelin sheath( protective coat of
nerve fiber)
• Without cobalamin folate cannot function in blood cell
synthesis.
• People with cobalamin deficiency will have folate
deficiency also. This because pyridoxine, folate and
cobalamin work so close and deficiency in one can
result into anemia.
 BIOTIN (B7)
• It involve in metabolism of carbohydrate, fat
and protein including gluconeogenesis.
• Gluconeogenesis is the production of glucose
from non carbohydrate substrate eg. Protein.
 PANTOTHENIC ACID (B5)
• Is the component of coenzyme A, which is the
part of acetyl coenzyme A.
• It involve many metabolic reaction that extract
energy from fatty acids.
ROLE OF VITAMIN B IN DIGESTION
• The main function of the vitamin B is to help
the body metabolize carbohydrate, protein,
and fat , and use the stored energy in the
food.
• Thiamine (B1) for example , helps the body
cells convert carbohydrates into energy.
 THIAMINE (B1)
• It helps the body change the carbohydrates in
the diet into energy for the cell and regulate
appetite.
• The main role of carbohydrate is to provide
energy for the body especially the brain and
nervous system.
• Thiamin is essential for the metabolism of
pyruvate
 NIACIN (B3)
• This vitamin is important for many digestive
tract functions, including the breakdown of
carbohydrate , fats , and alcohol.
• Niacin deficiency can result in a disease known
as pellagra, which cause severe vomiting and
diarrhea.
 PYRIDOXINE (B6)

• This vitamin is helps the digestive system

process the protein we eat.
 BIOTIN
• This helps digestive system produce
cholesterol and process protein, carbohydrate
and fatty acids.
 COBALAMIN (B12)
Its play role in the;
i. Helps the body to use folic acid and
carbohydrate
ii. Production of red blood cells
iii. It play a role in the nervous system.
ROLES OF VITAMIN B IN NERVE CONDUCTION

Vitamin B1(Thiamine)
• This vitamin function in maintenance of nerve
membrane function and synthesis of myelin sheath
and several types of neurotransmitters eg
acetylcholine,serotonin and amino acids
• It is also involved in nerve stimulation due to its
interference with with the structure and function of
cellular membranes and its ability to regulate ion
channels
 
Vitamin B6(Pyridoxine)
• It is important in the synthesis of neurotransmitters
like dopamine from L-DOPA,serotonin from 5HTP and
gamma-aminobutyric acid(GABA) from glutamate
• The role of pyridoxine in the nervous system is
clearly demonstrated by its use in the treatment of
pyrodoxine dependency seizures-an inborn
abnormality in infants with seizures not responding
to common anticonvulsants
ROLES OF VITAMIN B IN NERVE CONDUCTION

Vitamin B12(cobalamin)
• Vitamin B12 has the key role in the normal functioning
of the Brain and spinal cord and the formation Red
Blood Cells (RBCs)
• It is involved in DNA synthesis of myelin-producing
oligodendrocytes and the synthesis of myelin hence it
significantly supports the regeneration of nerves after
injury.
• It is also involved in nerve
metabolism(transmethylation)
 ROLES OF VITAMIN B IN OXIDATION AND
REDUCTION REACTIONS

 
• They act as antioxidants by preventing damage from
free radicals, which are highly reactive due to unpaired
electrons.Antioxidants reacts with these free radicals
by forming stable molecules
 
• Provides the reactive moieties of the coenzymes flavin
mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adenine
dinucleotide (FAD).
 ROLES OF VITAMIN B IN OXIDATION AND
REDUCTION REACTIONS
• Flavin coenzymes are electron carries in redox
reaction
 
They are also involved in formation of
cofactors(coenzymes) or act as coenzymes as
follows;
• Vitamin B1 is involved in production of coenzyme
thiamin pyrophosphate which is responsible for
decarboxylation reactions in the body
 ROLES OF VITAMIN B IN OXIDATION AND
REDUCTION REACTIONS
• Vitamin B2 is involved in production of coenzyme
flavin mononucleotide or flavin adenine
dinucleotide which is responsible for oxidation
reduction reactions involving two hydrogen atoms
 
• Vitamin B3 is involved in production of coenzyme
nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide or nicotinamide
dinucleotide phosphate which is responsible for
oxidation reduction reactions involving hydride ion
 ROLES OF VITAMIN B IN OXIDATION AND
REDUCTION REACTIONS
• Vitamin B6 is involved in production of coenzyme
pyrodoxal phosphate which is responsible for variety
of reactions including transfer of amino acids
 
• Vitamin B12 is involved in production of coenzyme
methylcobalamin or deoxyadenoxycobalamin which
is responsible for intramolecular rearrangement
reactions
 
Vitamin B6(Pyridoxine)
• It is important in the synthesis of neurotransmitters
like dopamine from L-DOPA,serotonin from 5HTP and
gamma-aminobutyric acid(GABA) from glutamate
• The role of pyridoxine in the nervous system is
clearly demonstrated by its use in the treatment of
pyrodoxine dependency seizures-an inborn
abnormality in infants with seizures not responding
to common anticonvulsants
ROLE OF VITAMIN B IN MANAGING DISEASES

A). Nervous system and vitamin B1 deficiency

• Thiamine deficiency is a medical condition of low levels of thiamine(vitamin
B1). A severe and chronic form is known as beriberi.
• Risk factors include a diet of mostly white rice, alcoholism, dialysis, chronic
diarrhea and taking high dose of diuretics. There are two main types in
adults;
dry beriberi – which affects the nerve conduction which results
into peripheral neuropathy characterized by numbness of the hands and feet,
confusion, trouble in moving legs and pain.
Wernicle encephalopathy and Korsakoff syndrome are forms of dry beriberi.
Treatment is by thiamine supplementation either by mouth or by injection.
Nervous system and Vitamin B12 deficiency
The only function as unique has been indicated for vitamin B12 is the synthesis
of myelin, a component of sheaths that protect nerve fibers. Vitamin B12
deficiency can cause peripheral neuropathy and combined system diseases
involving demyelination of the dorsal columns and the corticospinal tract.
A wide variety of neuropsychological systems and signs have been
encountered due to myelin damage such as ataxia, loss of cutaneous sensation,
muscle weaknesss, diminished or hyperactive reflexes, spasticity, orthostatic
hypotension, loss of vision, dementia, psychosis and disturbances of mood.
This is treated with vitamin B12 supplement by pill or by injection.
• Vitamin B6(Pyridoxine) deficiency and isoniazid
induced peripheral neuropathy
• The isoniazid induced peripheral neuropathy
occurring in adult tuberculous patients results from a
deficiency of biologically active pyridoxine.The
deficiency is caused by the combination of isoniazid
and pyridoxine to form a hydrozone which is
excreted in urine.
• It is treated by pyridoxine(Vitamin B6)
supplementation.
B). Heart effect and vitamin B1(thiamine) deficiency
• Wet beriberi a disorder caused by thiamine deficiency affects the
heart and circulatory system. It is sometimes fatal as it causes a
combination of heart failure and weakening of the capillary walls,
which causes the peripheral tissues to become edematous.
• Wet beriberi is characterised by
-increased heart rate
-Dilated cardiomyopathy
-Peripheral edema
-Dyspnea(shortness of breath)
Wet beriberi can be managed by thiamine supplementation.
C.) Memory (brain health) and vitamin B
• Vitamin B12 in particular, is one of the best vitamins for
brain health. In fact, research has confirmed that there is a
direct correlation between vitamin B12 deficiency and
brain health with homocysteine. It is widely known that
high homocysteine levels can contribute to poor health,
which includes poor brain function. It is also scientifically
accepted that B vitamins help keep homocysteine levels in
check.
• Hence better brain health can be managed by vitamin B12
supplementation.
 D: KIDNEY AND LIVER FUNCTIONAL EFFECTS.

• The use of recommended doses of water-

soluble vitamin B improve the functional
effects of the liver and kidneys, but consuming
high doses of vitamin B3, B6 and B9 may lead
to serious side effects including kidney and
liver damage.
 E: APPETITE

• Certain vitamins and minerals including Zinc and

vitamin B1 can increase appetite. However, these
usually only works if the person has deficiencies in
these nutrients.
• Vitamin B1 deficiency usually causes appetite loss,
weight loss, confusion and other neurological
disorders.
 F: TOXIC REMOVER IN THE BODY .
• B1(Thiamin), B3(Niacin) and B5 (Pantothenic acid) play a role in turning sugar
from your body into energy.
• Additionally, B6 and B12 play an important role in producing blood cells and
keeping the nervous system healthy.
• B8 (Inositol) and B9 (folic acid) are helpful in treating deficits that relate to
dietary habits and substance-related changes in the digestive system.
• B vitamins especially niacin supplements have cleansing properties that help to
quickly remove toxins introduced during drug use.
• Taking any or all of these vitamins helps bring your body to a normal, more
regular state
 G: ANAEMIA

• While iron deficiency is regarded as the

major cause of nutritional anaemia, changes
in vitamin B2, B9 and B12 status have also
been linked to its development and control.

Vitamin Possible role in anaemia management

B2 (Riboflavin)
- Iron mobilization.
- Globin production.
- Increasing intestinal absorptive capacity.

B9 (Folic acid) - DNA synthesis to favour erythropoiesis.

B12 (Cobalamin) - Reduce folate metabolism to favour erythropoiesis.

THE END