Is one of 8 B Vitamins. All B Vitamins help the body convert food (carbohydrates) into fuel (glucose), which is “burned” to produce energy. These B Vitamins, often referred to as B complex vitamins, also help the body metabolise fats and protein. B complex vitamins are necessary for healthy skin, hair, eyes, and liver. They also help the nervous system function properly and are necessary for optimal brain function. All B Vitamins are water-soluble, meaning that the body does not store them, like other B complex vitamins, B1 is considered an “anti-stress” vitamin because it may strengthen the immune system and improve the body’s ability to withstand stressful conditions. It is named B1 because it was the first B Vitamin discovered.

B1 is found in both plants and animals and plays a crucial role in certain metabolic reactions, for example, it is required for the body to form Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP), which every cell of the body uses for energy. People who are deficient in B1 may experience fatigue, irritability, depression and abdominal discomfort. People with B1 deficiency also have difficulty digesting carbohydrates. As a result, a substance called Pyruvic Acid builds up in their bloodstream, causing a loss of mental alertness, difficulty breathing, and heart damage (a disease known as Beriberi).

Is a co-enzyme in the production of Seratonin and Dopamine, two important mood modifiers. It is used in the treatment of depression and stress, pre-Menstrual Syndrome and depression associated with oral contraceptives, exams and work stress. It is involved principally in Amino Acid metabolism but is also involved in carbohydrate and fat metabolism. Beneficial in the regeneration of nerve fibre and it is also required for the formation of Haemoglobin. Used in the treatment of Peripheral Neuritis which is fairly common in diabetics. Papers published by prof. De Villers and Serfontein suggest a link between Vitamin B6, Hyperhomocysteinanemia, Atherosclerosis and ischaemic heart disease. Vitamin B6 reduces the effects of Levodopa. Vitamin B6 also lowers Prolactin levels often the cause of male loss of libido.

Is required by the body to use oxygen and the metabolism of Amino acids, fatty acids and carbohydrates. Vitamin B2 is further needed to activate Vitamin B6, helps to create Niacin and assists the Adrenal gland. It may be used for red blood cell formation, antibody production, cell respiration and growth. It eases watery eye fatigue. A shortage of Vitamin B2 may manifest itself as cracks and sores at the corners of the mouth, eye disorders, inflammation of the mouth, tongue and skin lesions.