The Bunches of Vitamin B's

Vitamin B is not just one vitamin, but many.  I know we have all heard of B1, B2, B6, and B12.  Sometimes they go by their names of Niacin, Thiamine, Riboflavin, etc.  There are at least 12.

These vitamins help out body by helping us to convert food to energy, as well as helping us feel like we have more energy.  They are also important to help neurotransmitters in our body and brain.  There is a lot of research that shows the B vitamins help our brain make those crucial hormones like serotonin, which is needed to keep us feeling good.  Lack of these hormones can cause depression.  Some research has shown that people who are depressed may just need to supplement with a B multivitamin.  It helps brain function by keeping us mentally sharp, and can also clear up "brain fog".

So where can we find vitamin B in our food?  In a lot of places, because there are so many B vitamins.  The common foods that you can find this in is nuts, leafy greens, eggs, good for you dairy products, and meat and fish.

If you think you may need to supplement, take a B supplement that has all the B vitamins in it.  This way you will get more of all of them, instead of a lot of just one.  One thing I have been reading about more and more is that we need all of the vitamins to work together, and not just one here or one there.  For example, one study I read a few months ago showed that vitamin A doesn't work as well unless it is with vitamin D.  New evidence shows that vitamin D works great with vitamin K.  I will write about these vitamins too, but you get the picture.  Our body needs all of them.  So if you are not eating them, please consider a multivitamin to make sure that you are at least getting some.

The assignment for this week is to try to exchange the snacks that are bad for you with a fruit or veggie. Think about what fruits you really like, and what is in season.  Think ahead when you are shopping, and ask yourself what fruits and veggies would our family eat.  One of my husbands favorites is celery with peanut butter.  He also likes grapefruits with stevia.  I really like peaches, watermelon, and berries.  My kids love grapes, bananas, and melons.  Instead of bread for dinner or lunch, exchange it with a veggie.  Did you know that Romaine lettuce can be used as like bread to make a sandwich or wrap.  Get creative, and if you have any other good ideas please post them.