B Positive

Do you want to improve your mood? Many individuals report that negative emotions like sadness or irritability interfere with their interpersonal relationships and inhibit them from being productive at work. If this sounds like you, try monitoring your intake of B vitamins. B vitamins including: B₁  (thiamine), B₂ (riboflavin), B₃ (niacin or niacinamide), B₅ (pantothenic acid), B₆ (pyridoxine, pyridoxal, or pyridoxamine, or pyridoxine hydrochloride), B₇ (biotin), B₉ (folic acid), and B₁₂ (various cobalamins; commonly cyanocobalamin in supplements) are important in many bodily and mental functions. They help with the functioning of our nervous system, increase energy levels, support cognitive functioning, increase mental acuity, help with the creation of neurotransmitters associated with mood, and help with the regulation of our emotions. In fact, many individuals with a B_6, B₉ or B₁₂ deficiencies experience depressive symptoms and increased anxiety.  This suggests the vital role these vitamins provide in maintaining positive emotions. Simple changes in our life, like monitoring our food intake can make a significant change in our attitude and mood. If you are looking to increase any of these vitamins in your diet, reach for a handful of peanuts, bananas, spinach, or scrambled eggs.