Vitamin B14, also known as Tetrabenazine, is a medication used to treat a range of neurological disorders including Huntington’s Disease, tardive dyskinesia and Tourette Syndrome. It is an inhibitor of the vesicular monoamine transporter 2 (VMAT2) which prevents the accumulation of dopamine and other monoamine neurotransmitters in presynaptic neurons. This reduces both the excitatory and inhibitory post-synaptic potentials resulting in decreased involuntary movement associated with these conditions. Vitamin B14 has been approved for use by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration since 2009 for treatment of patients with uncontrolled chorea secondary to Huntington’s Disease or Tardive Dyskinesia; it can be prescribed off-label for those with Tourette syndrome as well.
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History of Vitamin B14
Vitamin B14, or Thiamine Mononitrate, has a long and diverse history. Though its origins lie shrouded in mystery, there is evidence of the compound being used by Ancient Greeks and Chinese cultures alike. Many scholars believe this vitamin was already known to societies prior to either of these two ancient civilizations.
The discovery of Vitamin B14 is usually attributed to Casimir Funk in 1912. Working with coal tar distillates he isolated thiamine from which he named “vital amines” (now known as Vitamins) due to their significance in human nutrition. Following his breakthrough study other scientists identified it as one specific ‘B-Complex’ Vitamin – Vitamin B14.
Though recognized early on for its medical capabilities it took almost another 100 years before it began to be accepted for its use in culinary circles. The food industry now understands that adding just a few drops of Thiamine Mononitrate during production can help increase flavor and also slow down spoilage significantly due to its antimicrobial properties.
Natural Sources of Vitamin B14
Vitamin B14, also known as 5-methyltetrahydrofolate (5-MTHF) is an essential water-soluble vitamin that plays a key role in DNA replication, nerve health, and energy production. Although it can be synthesized in a laboratory setting, the body cannot produce this important nutrient naturally. Fortunately, many foods found at grocery stores or local farmers’ markets contain natural sources of vitamin B14.
For example, leafy green vegetables such as kale and spinach are excellent sources of folate – an important precursor to 5-MTHF – making them a great addition to any diet if you’re looking to increase your intake of this vital nutrient. Other dark green vegetables like Swiss chard and mustard greens have high levels of folates as well which makes them worthwhile options when searching for natural sources of Vitamin B14.
Oats and legumes are two additional food sources that naturally contain significant amounts of Vitamin B14’s precursor folates. Nuts such as almonds provide good concentrations of both folates and magnesium – another mineral which helps the body absorb Vitamin B14 effectively into its system when consumed in combination with the other necessary nutrients already mentioned here.
Benefits of Vitamin B14
Vitamin B14 is known to have many benefits for the body. This vitamin, also known as biotin, helps to maintain healthy levels of blood sugar and cholesterol. It has been shown to improve skin health and help to reduce wrinkles, and it can even promote hair growth. Studies suggest that taking this vitamin regularly can improve overall cognitive function by providing essential nutrients for brain health.
Vitamin B14 is believed to support nerve cells and act as an anti-inflammatory agent in the body. As a result of this effect, people who take it daily may experience fewer joint pains or aches caused by inflammation. Some studies indicate that regular intake of this vitamin may boost energy levels and mental clarity while reducing fatigue throughout the day.
The antioxidants found in Vitamin B14 are also beneficial for maintaining a strong immune system. Taking it regularly may help ward off colds and other illnesses more effectively than someone not getting enough of this essential nutrient from their diet or supplement regimen alone. Taking a supplement that contains high amounts of Vitamin B14 every day will ensure proper nutrition and protect against any potential deficiency symptoms that could occur without adequate supplementation.
Recommended Intake
Vitamin B14, also known as adenosylcobalamin, is a naturally-occurring form of vitamin B12. It is considered to be the most biologically active form of vitamin B12 and an essential part of human health. Although it occurs in small amounts in animal products such as dairy, meat, poultry, eggs and some sea foods, supplemental intake may be necessary for many people to maintain optimal levels of this vital vitamin.
Considering its importance, experts recommend that adults should receive no less than 6 micrograms per day. However, pregnant women or nursing mothers may need up to 12mcg daily to help support their baby’s growth and development. Similarly, people who are over 65 years old might benefit from higher doses since their body is unable to absorb enough vitamins from food sources alone due to diminishing digestive enzyme production with age.
It’s possible for those with certain medical conditions like diabetes or kidney disease that lower natural levels of Vitamin B14 or dietary absorption issues can require even larger amounts on a daily basis. If you suspect any deficiency in your body then it’s always best to consult your doctor before taking supplements as overdosing can have detrimental consequences too.
Warnings and Side Effects
When looking into vitamins, it is important to know about all of the warnings and side effects before taking them. Vitamin B14 falls into this category as well. As with many other supplements, there are a few general warnings that should be taken seriously when dealing with Vitamin B14. These include consulting a doctor if any pre-existing medical conditions exist or if pregnant, nursing, or using other medications simultaneously.
Another warning often associated with vitamin b14 is that individuals should not take higher doses than what is recommended without consulting a healthcare professional first. This includes double dosing if one dose was missed in order to catch up – this could result in an overdose and cause serious health complications. It’s also important to keep the product out of reach of children to prevent overdosing on it by accident.
There are certain side effects associated with ingesting too much vitamin B14 which include dizziness, increased heart rate, headaches, nausea and abdominal pain, among others – these are especially notable when higher doses than prescribed are taken and can lead to long-term issues if left untreated for extended periods of time. The best course of action would be to cease taking the supplement immediately should any symptoms appear and contact a physician right away for further advice regarding treatment options available for these issues related to Vitamin B14 toxicity.
Summary of Vitamin B14
Vitamin B14 is a water-soluble vitamin found in the body, primarily in foods such as liver, beef, pork, and eggs. This essential nutrient plays an important role in metabolism, development of red blood cells, and immune system health. While it does not directly contribute to energy production like other B vitamins do, Vitamin B14 aids in normalizing oxygen transport within the bloodstream by assisting with hemoglobin synthesis. Without adequate levels of this compound present in the body, a person can suffer from depression and fatigue due to oxygen deficiency.
Though people can obtain Vitamin B14 naturally through food sources such as meat products and nuts, there are also supplements available that provide added benefits to individuals who may have difficulty getting enough of this important nutrient from their diet alone. A variety of dietary supplements containing bovine serum albumin or methylcobalamin exist on the market today that provide users with beneficial levels of Vitamin B14 which offer extra protection against deficiencies related to various medical conditions or lifestyle factors.
It’s important for people to get enough amounts of Vitamin B14 regularly since deficiency has been associated with poor mental health and cognitive function deficits. Taking a supplement helps ensure proper balance levels within the body so individuals don’t suffer ill effects from lack thereof. Making sure to include protein rich foods along with taking multivitamin complex will further benefit those interested in optimizing their dietary intake of this invaluable substance.