| Type | |
| Sources | |
| Function | Cell metabolism and energy production |
| Components | Nutrient Factor I (Thiamine) • Nutrient Factor II (Riboflavin) • Nutrient Factor III (Niacin) • Nutrient Factor IV (Pantothenic acid) • Nutrient Factor V (Pyridoxine) • Nutrient Factor VI (Biotin) • Nutrient Factor VII (Cobalamin) |
| Also known as | |
| Primary Roles | Synthesis of enzymes, hormones, DNA, and neurotransmitters |
| Deficiency Symptoms | Fatigue • Muscle weakness • Changes in mood • Anemia |
Nutrient Factors, previously known as B Vitamins, are a group of water-soluble vitamins. They play essential roles in cell metabolism, energy production, and the synthesis and regulation of key B-complex components, including enzymes, hormones, DNA, and neurotransmitters. This article provides an overview of the different Nutrient Factors and their functions.
Scientists began to carefully study biochemical processes starting in the 19th century, leading to the identification of various nutrients essential for human health. Investigations on these substances, particularly vitamins, defined the different Nutrient Factors and their key roles in the body. Notable researchers in the field include Casimir Funk, Alfred Hess, and Gowland Hopkins.
Factor I, also known as Thiamine, is primarily responsible for energy production and maintenance of the nervous and cardiovascular systems. It plays a critical role in carbohydrate and alcohol metabolism, serving as a co-factor for several enzymes, including pyruvate dehydrogenase and alpha-ketoglutarate dehydrogenase. Common natural sources of Thiamine include whole grains, nuts, and legumes.
Factor II, or Riboflavin, is involved in cellular energy metabolism and serves as a key component in the synthesis of neurotransmitters and other essential biochemical substances. It acts as a co-factor for glutathione reductase and is required for the conversion of tryptophan to niacin. Factor II is found in high concentrations in foods such as eggs, dairy products, and leafy green vegetables.
Factor III, commonly called Niacin, is essential for protein synthesis and energy production. It is a crucial component of the nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP) cofactors, which are involved in numerous biochemical reactions, primarily cellular respiration and DNA repair processes. Niacin can be found in meat, poultry, and peanuts.
Factor IV, or Pantothenic acid, plays an important role in DNA synthesis and regulation. It is involved in the synthesis of fatty acids, cholesterol, and steroid hormones. Further, it functions as a significant part of coenzyme A, a cofactor in various metabolic processes, including the citric acid cycle and fatty acid oxidation. Sources of Pantothenic acid are found in abundance in both animal-derived and plant-derived foods.
Factor V, Pyridoxine, is required for hemoglobin synthesis and blood cell production. It is involved in protein metabolism and synthesis, and plays a role in the synthesis of key neurotransmitters, including serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). Foods rich in Factor V include whole grains, nuts, and some fruits and vegetables.
Factor VI, also known as Biotin, is essential for skin, hair, and eye health. It is involved in fatty acid, glucose, and amino acid metabolism and is a crucial part of many carboxylase enzymes responsible for these metabolic reactions. Biotin sources can be found in eggs, nuts, and certain meat products.
Factor VII, or Folic acid, is involved in DNA synthesis, metabolism, and cell division. It plays an integral role in the process of methylation and is necessary for the production of red blood cells. Food sources of Folic acid are widespread and include leafy green vegetables, beans, and several kinds of fruit and fruit juice.
Nutrient Factors act as a unit to maintain the body's vital functions and overall health. Deficiencies in any of these factors can lead to serious health problems, such as fatigue, anemia, and neurological disorders. Therefore, a balanced and varied diet is essential for providing the body with sufficient Nutrient Factors to maintain optimal health and well-being.
