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A variety of diseases can be traced to a lack of vitamins. A well known example of this is Scurvy that once plagued sailors. The disease was caused by a deficit of Vitamin C. Thousands of people died from Scurvy before it was discovered that it could be prevented easily by eating foods rich in Vitamin C.

What some people don’t know is that there are still diseases today that are caused by poor diet. This is admittedly more common in countries where diets are lacking in variety. Poorer countries report higher numbers of nutrition related diseases, but the incidence is rising in affluent nations, too. The diets of people on the run can be filled with processed, convenience, and fast food. This can lead to nutritional deficiencies even in those who have plenty to eat.

The Vitamin B group, particularly, is easily depleted in the body. Vitamin B is water-soluble, so it can’t be stored by your body for long, and must be renewed regularly, either by eating Vitamin B rich food or through nutritional supplements.

There are 8 micronutrients in the Vitamin B family. They each have their own function, but they work best when taken together. Here’s is a description of each, including their functions and possible signs of deficiencies.

Vitamin B1 is also known as thiamine. It improves your mood, supports your heart, and aids in the metabolism of carbohydrates. A lack of Vitamin B1 can cause emotional disturbances, reduced sensory perception, weight loss, weakness and pain in the arms and legs, swelling, and irregular pulse. Severe cases can cause beriberi, permanent psychosis, or heart failure.

Vitamin B2 is also known as riboflavin. It supports cellular processes, like metabolism of foods and production of red blood cells. A deficit of riboflavin in the body is characterized by cracks in the corners of the mouth, a sore tongue or mouth, swelling of the mucous membranes, or scaly patches of skin on the scalp. Recent studies suggest that Vitamin B2 also helps in preventing migraine headaches and cataracts.

Niacin, or Vitamin B3, helps in the release of energy from nutrients. Niacin also supports healthy skin, nerves, and digestive tract. Signs of a Vitamin B3 deficiency include digestive problems, trouble sleeping, tiredness, confusion, or diarrhea. In advanced cases, deficiency can lead to dementia, pellagra, or death.

Vitamin B5 is pantothenic acid. This nutrient supports a healthy nervous system, and also aids in metabolism. Signs of a lack of Vitamin B5 may be acne and a “pins and needles” feeling of the skin in the extremeties.

Vitamin B6 is called pyridoxene. Vitamin B6 assists in the production of red blood cells, supports a healthy immune system, and helps maintain proper nerve function. Deficiencies in pyridoxene show as cracks in the corners of the mouth, skin rashes, water retention and elevated blood pressure.

Vitamin B7 is referred to as biotin. It supports healthy hair and nails, and helps release energy from carbohydrates. Signals of a Vitamin B7 lack include dry skin, scaly patches on the scalp, fungal infections, brittle hair, hair loss, depression, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, or anorexia.

Vitamin B9 is also known as folic acid. Folic acid aids in the formation of hemoglobin, and is vitally important for pregnant women. A deficit of folic acid in an expectant mother can produce birth defects in the baby. Signs of folic acid deficiency may be anemia, irritability, trouble breathing, fatigue, weight loss, menstrual problems, or leg ulcers.

Vitamin B12 is called cobalamin. This vitamin is necessary for a healthy nervous system and the production of red blood cells. Deficiency can cause anemia, memory loss, and numbness in the arms or legs. Advanced cases can cause psychosis or paralysis.

To learn more about vitamin deficiencies, visit Vitamins A to K.

Note: You should consult a doctor before taking any medical advice.