There are two B vitamins in particular that can prevent illnesses and help you lead a healthier life.
These are vitamin B12 and vitamin B6. While many people are aware of the positive benefits of vitamins C and E, less people know about the strength of these two B vitamins. However, the amazing thing about these two B vitamins is that they are now being proven to help specifically prevent deterioration of both your brain and your immune system. So vitamin B12 and vitamin B6 are definitely two supplements that will compliment the other vitamins you may be taking.
This is especially true when it comes to brain function. As you age, your stomach progressively secretes fewer acids that are necessary to absorb vitamin B12 from food into your system. A vitamin B12 deficiency can develop over the years and may start affecting the brain and the nervous system. If this occurs, dementia and other psychiatric disorders are likely to be the result. Since recent studies have shown that at least 20% of people over 60 are not getting enough B12, this may be cause for concern to older people. The sooner a B12 deficiency is detected, the better. Delaying treatment for even a year can mean permanent damage if neurological symptoms show up.
Vitamin B12 supplements are important to take because even with less stomach acid, the crystalline form of vitamin B12 can still be absorbed into the system at a regular rate. Since vitamin B12 deficiencies can start as early as 30, there’s no reason not to take a B12 supplement or a multivitamin if you aren’t eating healthy. As far as foods go, Vitamin B12 can only be found in animal foods such as meat, chicken, fish, and dairy products. So vegetarians should be especially aware of their vitamin B12 intake and learn more about the benefits of these supplements.
Unlike B12, vitamin B6 is stronger on the immune system.
Vitamin B6 is good for raising the levels of T-cells, T-helper cells, and antibodies: all disease fighting substances of the immune system. Incredibly though, a lack of vitamin B6 intake is even more widespread than B12. Americans actually take in 50-75% less than the recommended dietary allowance of B6, which can lower the production of antibodies necessary for the immune system to function properly. Even more alarming is that as people near age forty, the body begins to absorb vitamin B6 less efficiently, further lowering levels of B6.
If you don’t get enough B6, you may be more vulnerable to other medical conditions as well. Besides a failing immune system, you may also suffer form a declining mental status, compromised heart health, and maybe even cancer. Vitamin B6 supplements can help fight against enzymes that can destroy blood vessels. Vitamin B6 supplements have also been proven to improve long term memory and slow down age-related memory decline.
Thankfully, the right amount of vitamins B12 and B6 are found in a standard multivitamin. If you are under 40, typically this dosage should correct any vitamin B deficiencies. There’s no guarantee, but 6 micrograms of B12 and 3 milligrams of Vitamin B6 should be enough to correct any vitamin B deficiency. If you are over 40 and suffering a deficiency, a higher dosage is recommended. There is no danger in high doses when taking B vitamins; however, when taking any supplement for medical reasons, you should always consult a doctor.
