Vitamins are molecules which act as co-factors assisting our body to mobilise energy from food molecules. Vitamins as such cannot be considered as energy packs which directly impart added energy to the body.
On the other hand they help by attaching to the enzymes and increasing the metabolic rate of the body. An increased metabolic rate will ensure the breaking down of complex carbohydrates, fats and proteins to release energy for the various activities of the body.
Top 5 Major Vitamins That Boosts Energy
B group Vitamins are closely associated with the energy levels of the body and functioning of brain and central nervous system. Among the group, Vitamins B5, B6 and B12 are said to be more important as far as energy boosting aspects are concerned. B group vitamins are inevitable constituents of health and energy drinks as they help to unlock energy from food sources and make it available to the body.
Vitamin B5
This Vitamin is also known as the anti-stress vitamin as supplements of this vitamin has been helpful as mood enhancers. Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) is found naturally in food items like meat, vegetables as well as whole grains.The brain is that part of the body that makes maximum utilization of this vitamin and hence deficiency of this vitamin results in depression and mood changes. Dietary source of this Vitamin include whole grain cereals, oatmeal, soya, vegetables and meat.
Vitamin B6
Also known as Pyridoxine, Vitamin B6 enhance energy levels of the body by assisting the metabolism and absorption of amino acids in the body.They promote the health of brain and nervous system and are important in the functioning of neuro transmitters. Dietary sources include fish, liver, meat and starchy vegetables.
Vitamin B12
The most important energy vitamin of the B group, Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) is required for the manufacture of red blood cells that help body to use the iron for releasing energy.Vitamin B12 also aids proper digestion which also enhances energy levels of the body. B12 supplements have been found to reduce fatigue in patients. Deficiency of the vitamin will lead to low energy levels, fatigue and a prolonged deficiency will even lead to nerve damage. Dietary sources include meat, meat products and egg.
Vitamin B1
Also called Thiamine this Vitamin acts as an energy booster by assisting in the conversion of sugar in the food to energy molecules.In the process of oxidization of sugar, this vitamin acts as a co-factor so as to release energy for the smooth functioning of the major body parts. Apart from this the Vitamin also enhances brain function by relieving stress and strengthening nervous system. Dietary sources of this Vitamin include green leaves, vegetables and meat.
Vitamin C
Most of us are quite aware of the beneficial effects of Vitamin C in warding off cold and related problems? But what about the role of these Vitamins in the energy levels of the body? Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid) plays a key role in synthesis of a molecule called ‘carnitine’ which facilitates the release of energy from food molecules, in the body cells.As such deficiency of this Vitamin will lead to poor energy conversion causing fatigue and low energy levels. Food sources include fruits like melons, berries and vegetables.