Vitamin B is a group of bioactives that are water-soluble:• Thiamine – B1
• Riboflavin – B2
• Niacin – B3
• Pantothenic acid – B5
• Pyridoxine – B6
• Biotin – B7
• Folate – B9
• Cobalamin – B12
Since most B-vitamins are combined in the same food sources (grains, meat and fish), they easily interact and support each other’s function. These vitamins mainly function as co-enzymes in a variety of metabolic and biochemical reactions. B vitamins are essential for:
• Maintaining the energy metabolism
• Cardiac function
• Proper growth and development
• Maintenance of cells and organs
Cobalamin – B12
Cobalamin is required for proper red blood cell formation, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. It also functions as a co-factor in the homocysteine metabolism and is key in the haemoglobin synthesis.
EFSA has acknowledged the following beneficial effects as a basis for health claims:
• Cobalamin – Vitamin B12 contributes to normal neurological and psychological functions
• Cobalamin – Vitamin B12 contributes to normal homocysteine metabolism
• Cobalamin – Vitamin B12 can contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue
• Cobalamin – Vitamin B12 contributes to normal cell division
• Cobalamin – Vitamin B12 contributes to normal red blood cell formation
• Cobalamin – Vitamin B12 contributes to normal energy metabolism
• Cobalamin – Vitamin B12 contributes to a normal function of the immune system