B vitamins play a key role in the normal functioning of the human body. Unfortunately, they are not produced and stored in the body in sufficient quantities. Therefore, it is crucial that they are replenished regularly on a daily basis. This is because they perform a number of very important functions in the body from birth. Scientific research carried out in various centres around the world shows that deficiencies of B vitamins can also lead to very serious disorders in the normal functioning of the human nervous system.
Symptoms and course vitamin B deficiency
B vitamins are water-soluble (they do not accumulate in the body, the excess is excreted in the urine) and are found in almost all foods of plant or animal origin. The risk of the body being poisoned by these vitamins is zero; unfortunately, we can very easily become deficient in them.
Eight B vitamins are known, but the full set consists of thirteen. They are responsible for, among other things:
- the normal growth and development of young children,
- water and electrolyte management,
- metabolism,
- mental balance,
- functioning of the cardiovascular system,
- protection against certain cancers,
- stress reduction,
- memory, concentration,
- the condition of hair, skin, nails,
- good mood,
- the health of our heart,
- proper development of the nervous system.
If any symptoms of deficiency of these vitamins appear, we should change our diet as soon as possible. Most human health problems are due to poor nutrition.
At present, the B vitamins are designated by consecutive numbers and form a number of chemical compounds. Their deficiencies can lead to disorders in the normal functioning of the human nervous system.
A brief description of the individual B vitamins will be given below, together with the effects of deficiencies on the nervous system:
- Vitamin B1 (thiamine) is mainly found in rice, peas, beans, sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, peas, processed meats, meat, oatmeal and buckwheat groats. Its deficiencies lead to muscular atrophy in the patient, problems in normal muscle function, disturbed neurophysiological processes and peripheral nerve paralysis. If you notice symptoms such as muscle spasms and pain, swelling of the upper and lower limbs, nerve inflammation or paresis, you should contact a neurologist as soon as possible. This is because it is dangerous for patients of all ages and can lead to disability or even death.
- Vitamin B2 (riboflavin), is found in poultry, milk, natural yoghurt, eggs, whole grain cereal products, liver, fatty fish and cottage cheese. It is involved in almost all metabolic processes in the body. Deficiencies of this vitamin can lead to muscle tremors, muscle pain, radiculitis or sciatica.
- Vitamin B3 (niacin, vitamin PP), is found in potatoes, milk, fish, meat and legumes. Deficiencies of this vitamin lead to recurrent, severe headaches, disorders in the normal functioning of the brain and also the peripheral nervous system (numbness in the limbs, muscle pain).
- Vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid) is present in meat, eggs, leafy vegetables and legumes. Scientific studies have shown that its deficiency leads to very painful, recurring cramps and numbness in the toes (less commonly in the hands). Initially these problems do not impede normal functioning, but over time they contribute to mobility problems.
- Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is present in fish, leafy and leguminous vegetables and whole grains. Too little of this vitamin in the body contributes to neurological disorders, which in turn manifest as numbness and weakness in the upper and lower limbs. Many patients also present mood changes and depressive states.
- Vitamin B7 (biotin), is mainly present in vegetables, milk, eggs, liver, cheese, bran, maize, dark rice, grapes, melon, cauliflower, bananas and mushrooms. Its deficiency leads to severe muscle pain, muscle trembling, mood disorders, pain in the feet and hands, sensory hypersensitivity, irritability, nervousness, depression, anxiety and even hallucinations.
- Vitamin B9 (folic acid) plays a key role in the proper functioning of all cells in our body. Its role is invaluable, as it is responsible for the proper and efficient functioning of the nervous system. Folic acid deficiencies can lead to very serious neural tube defects in children. Gynaecologists urge women who are planning to become pregnant to supplement their diet with folic acid.
- Vitamin B12 (cyanocobalamin) is mainly found in offal. It is responsible for the synthesis of proteins and DNA in the human body. Importantly, it plays a key role in the formation of blood morphotic elements. Various neurological disorders (problems with movement, vision, headaches, dizziness, muscle pain), which in most cases are the result of damage to the nervous system, have been shown to be due to a deficiency of this vitamin.
When to go to the doctor and treat vitamin B deficiency
Any deficiency of B vitamins has a significant impact on the efficient and healthy functioning of a person. They have a significant effect on the entire nervous system (central and peripheral), but also on various mental disorders. If you notice any disturbing symptoms in yourself or in a person close to you, which do not disappear but are getting worse, you should visit a neurologist as soon as possible. We must not allow irreversible changes to our nervous system to occur, which may consequently lead to disability or even death of the patient.
Treatment vitamin B deficiency
In most cases, treatment consists of diet and lifestyle changes. It is necessary to introduce products that contain particular B vitamins. In cases where the patient's diet is very poor, it is necessary to include dietary supplements available from pharmacies. If the symptoms still persist, it is necessary to see a specialist again and may require pharmacological treatment or appropriate rehabilitation.