Bvítamín

Bvítamín is a term used to refer to the B vitamins, a group of water-soluble micronutrients that function mainly as coenzymes in a wide range of metabolic processes. They support energy production from carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, and play roles in nerve function, blood formation, and cell growth. Because they are water-soluble, they are not stored in large amounts in the body and are typically consumed regularly through diet; excess amounts are excreted in urine.

The B vitamin family includes eight compounds commonly designated as B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folate), and B12 (cobalamin). Each has specific functions: thiamin and riboflavin participate in energy metabolism; niacin contributes to redox reactions; pantothenic acid is part of coenzyme A; pyridoxine supports amino acid metabolism; biotin acts in carboxylation reactions; folate and cobalamin are essential for DNA synthesis and red blood cell formation.

Diet is the primary source of B vitamins, with sources including whole grains, meat, eggs, dairy, legumes, leafy vegetables, and fortified foods. Deficiencies can lead to anemia, fatigue, nerve symptoms, and impaired growth or development, with certain populations at higher risk (e.g., older adults, pregnant individuals, people with restricted diets or certain medical conditions, and those with heavy alcohol use). Most healthy individuals obtain adequate amounts from a varied diet, though targeted supplementation may be recommended in specific circumstances, such as folate during pregnancy or B12 for those with absorption issues or vegan diets.