B Vitamins are definitely getting their time in the spotlight as we begin to understand the true importance of the B vitamin cast including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate, vitamin B6, vitamin B12, biotin and pantothenic acid.
Our body depends on 13 vitamins altogether, eight of which make up the B-group (or B-complex) vitamins. Vitamin B levels decline with naturally with age, which some studies have linked to reduced brain function over the years. That’s why increasing your vitamin B through your diet becomes even more important as you age.
Animal sources: Unfortunately for people keeping a vegan or vegetarian diet, the only natural source of vitamin B12 is animal products including red meat, salmon, and milk.
Green vegetables: Green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and asparagus are rich in folate and just a handful of these can help you achieve your daily intake of folate.
Vegemite: Yes, it’s true. The divisive Aussie spread is rich in vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin.
Bananas: These yellow pocket rockets are a fantastic natural energy snack as well as a source of vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 helps the body carry signals between nerve cells, and is needed for normal brain development and function, as well as helping the body make mood-influencing hormones.
Dates: Dates are a fantastic source of vitamin B3, also known as niacin [1]. As well as helping the body convert energy, niacin helps improve circulation, supports brain function and it may also help to suppress inflammation.