The B vitamins are a family of nutrients that are especially valuable for the "nervous 90s". For most of us, daily stress and tension is almost a normal occurrence. Common senses dictates that we take necessary precautions to protect our health. The B vitamins are especially vulnerable to stress in our body and lose their effectiveness quite rapidly. For this reason - and because the B vitamins are water soluble, they are not stored by the body. Therefore, they require daily replenishment. The B vitamins play an integral role in the functioning of the nervous system and help the brain synthesize chemicals that affect moods. A balanced complex of the B vitamins is also essential for energy, balancing hormone levels, and keeping the skin clear. In short, B vitamins are vital to maintaining almost every aspect of health - from your mental and emotional health - to your beauty needs.

Vitamin B-1, Thiamine:
Involved in energy production from carbohydrates in our diet. Thiamine is necessary for growth and functioning of nerve tissue, memory and emotional stability.

Vitamin B-2, Riboflavin:
Involved in energy production and synthesis of fats and amino acids. Without B-2 no cellular growth can take place.

Vitamin B-3, Niacin:
Niacin is involved in over 50 different metabolic reactions within the body. It is essential for energy production and synthesis and breakdown of fats, carbohydrates and proteins. Other functions include synthesis of cholesterol and steroids, formation of red blood cells and metabolism of several drugs.

Vitamin B-6, Pyridoxine:
Pyridoxine is essential for the synthesis and the breakdown of amino acids, the building blocks of protein. It plays a role in the multiplication of all cells and the production of red blood cells and cells of the immune system. Required to synthesize neurotransmitters, the chemicals necessary for the nervous system and for brain function.

Vitamin B-12, Cyanocobalamin:
Vitamin B-12 is essential for normal growth and the formation of healthy red blood cells. Involved in maintaining a healthy nervous system and in detoxifying cyanide from tobacco smoke and smog.