B vitamins for the heart: role and meaning

B vitamins for the heart: role and meaning

I. Review of group b vitamins

B vitamins are a complex of water -soluble vitamins that play a critical role in numerous cellular processes, including energy metabolism, the functions of the nervous system and the synthesis of DNA. Each B vitamin performs specific functions, and their joint action provides optimal health. This complex includes:

• TIAMIN (VITAMIN B1): It is necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates and the functioning of the nervous system.
• Riboflavin (vitamin B2): Participates in energy metabolism and functioning of cells.
• Niacin (Vitamin B3): It is important for the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates, as well as for maintaining the health of the skin and nervous system.
• Pantotenic acid (vitamin B5): Participates in the synthesis of Coenzyme A necessary for energy metabolism.
• Pyridoxine (vitamin B6): It is important for amino acids metabolism, the synthesis of neurotransmitters and the formation of hemoglobin.
• Biotin (Vitamin B7): Participates in the metabolism of fats, carbohydrates and proteins.
• Folic acid (vitamin B9): It is necessary for the synthesis of DNA and cell growth.
• Cobalamin (vitamin B12): It is important for the functioning of the nervous system, the formation of red blood cells and DNA synthesis.

II. The role of group B vitamins in heart health

B vitamins play a multifaceted role in maintaining the health of the cardiovascular system. Their influence covers several key mechanisms, including a decrease in homocysteine ​​levels, improve the function of endothelium, reduce blood pressure and improve lipid profile.

A. Reducing the level of homocysteine

Homocysteine ​​is an amino acid formed in the process of methyonin metabolism. The increased level of homocysteine ​​in the blood (hypergomocysteinemia) is an independent risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, thrombosis and heart failure. Homocysteine ​​damages the vascular endothelium, promotes the oxidation of low density lipoproteins (LDL) and increases the formation of blood clots.

Vitamins B6, B9 (folic acid) and B12 are key cofactors in metabolic tracks that turn homocysteine ​​back into methionine or cysteine. Sufficient consumption of these vitamins helps to reduce the level of homocysteine ​​in the blood, thereby reducing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. The mechanism of action is as follows:

1. Folic acid (B9): It is necessary for the work of the enzyme metilentetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR), which turns 5,10-metilentetrahydropulates into a 5-methyltetrahydropulat. 5-methyltetrahydrofolat is a cofactor in a reaction catalyzed by methioninsyntase, which turns homocysteine ​​into methionine. Folic acid deficiency leads to a decrease in the activity of MTHFR and the accumulation of homocysteine.

2. Vitamin B12 (cobalamin): It is necessary for the activity of methioninsyntase. Vitamin B12 is a cofactor in a reaction in which a 5-methyltetrahydrofolat transfers a methyl group to homocysteine, forming methionine. Vitamin B12 deficiency leads to a decrease in the activity of methioninsyntase and the accumulation of homocysteine.

3. Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxin): It is necessary for the work of the enzyme cystaline-Beta-syntase (CBS), which turns homocysteine ​​into cystageine. Tsistanine is the predecessor of cysteine, another amino acid. Vitamin B6 deficiency leads to a decrease in CBS activity and the accumulation of homocysteine.

Numerous studies have shown that the addition of folic acid, vitamin B12 and vitamin B6 effectively reduces the level of homocysteine ​​in the blood. The meta-analyzes of clinical studies confirm that a decrease in homocysteine ​​levels with the help of group B vitamins is associated with a reduction in the risk of stroke. However, the impact on the risk of other cardiovascular diseases, such as myocardial infarction, remains the subject of further research.

B. Improving the function of endothelium

Endothelium is a single -layer layer of cells lining the inner surface of blood vessels. He plays a critical role in the regulation of vascular tone, inflammation, thrombosis and permeability of blood vessels. The dysfunction of the endothelium is characterized by a violation of its ability to relax the vessels in response to stimuli, such as nitrogen oxide (No). Endothelial dysfunction is an early sign of atherosclerosis and the predictor of future cardiovascular events.

Several vitamins of group B, including riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3) and folic acid (B9), demonstrated the ability to improve the function of the endothelium.

1. Riboflavin (b2): Participates in the functioning of the enzyme endothelial No-syntase (ENOS), which is responsible for the synthesis of NO. NO is a powerful vasodilator that relaxes the smooth muscles of the vessels and improves blood flow. Riboflavin can improve the Enos function by increasing NO products and improving the endothelial function. In addition, riboflavin is an antioxidant and can protect endothelial cells from oxidative stress, which contributes to endothelial dysfunction.

2. Niacin (B3): It has a positive effect on the lipid profile, reducing the level of LDL (poor cholesterol) and triglycerides, as well as increasing the level of LDP (good cholesterol). Improving lipid profile can help improve endothelium function. In addition, Niacin has antioxidant properties and can reduce inflammation, which can also have a beneficial effect on endothelial function. Niacin also helps to expand blood vessels, improving blood flow.

3. Folic acid (B9): As mentioned earlier, folic acid reduces the level of homocysteine, which is toxic for endothelial cells. A decrease in homocysteine ​​level can protect the endothelium from damage and improve its function. Folic acid can also improve bioavailability NO, increasing its concentration in the vascular wall and improving vasodilation.

Studies have shown that the addition of riboflavin, niacin and folic acid can improve the function of endothelium in patients with cardiovascular diseases and risk factors, such as hypertension, dyslipidemia and diabetes.

C. Reducing blood pressure

Arterial hypertension (high blood pressure) is the main risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure and kidney disease. Control of blood pressure is an important strategy to reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.

Some vitamins of group B, in particular, folic acid (B9) and pyridoxin (B6), can help reduce blood pressure.

1. Folic acid (B9): As mentioned earlier, folic acid reduces the level of homocysteine, which can help increase blood pressure. Homocysteine ​​can damage the vascular endothelium, reduce bioavailability NO and increase blood clots, which can lead to an increase in blood pressure. A decrease in homocysteine ​​levels with folic acid can improve the function of the endothelium, increase NO products and reduce blood pressure. The meta-analyzes of clinical studies have shown that the addition of folic acid can slightly reduce blood pressure, especially in patients with hypertension.

2. Pyridoxin (B6): Participates in the synthesis of neurotransmitters, such as gamma-aminomatic acid (GABA), which has an inhibitory effect on the nervous system and can reduce blood pressure. Pyridoxine also participates in the metabolism of catecholamines, such as adrenaline and norepinephrine, which increase blood pressure. A deficiency of pyridoxine can lead to an increase in the activity of the sympathetic nervous system and an increase in blood pressure. Some studies have shown that the addition of pyridoxine can reduce blood pressure in patients with hypertension.

D. Improving lipid profile

Dyslipidemia, characterized by an increased level of LDL (poor cholesterol), triglycerides and a reduced level of HDL (good cholesterol), is an important risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Dyslipidemia correction is an important strategy to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular complications.

Niacin (B3) is the most famous vitamin of group B, which affects the lipid profile.

1. Niacin (B3): It has a pronounced effect on the lipid profile, reducing the level of LDL, triglycerides and increasing the level of HDL. The mechanism of action of niacin includes inhibiting lipolysis in adipose tissue, a decrease in the synthesis of LDL in the liver and an increase in the clearance of triglycerides from the blood. Niacin is one of the most effective drugs to increase the level of HDL. Clinical studies have shown that niacin reduces the risk of cardiovascular events, such as myocardial infarction and stroke, especially in patients with dyslipidemia. However, the use of niacin can be accompanied by side effects, such as redness of the skin, itching and increasing blood glucose. Therefore, Niacin should be taken under the supervision of a doctor.

Although other vitamins of group B do not have such a pronounced effect on lipid profile as niacin, they can indirectly affect lipid metabolism, participating in the energy metabolism and metabolism of fatty acids.

III. Recommended daily dose and sources of B vitamins

The recommended daily dose of group B vitamins varies depending on age, gender, physiological condition (pregnancy, lactation) and the presence of diseases. In general, a balanced diet rich in various products provides sufficient consumption of group B vitamins. However, in some cases, additional intake of vitamin additives may be required.

A. Recommended daily doses (RDA)

(Approximate values ​​based on recommendations for adults are given. It is necessary to consult a doctor or nutritionist to receive individual recommendations.)

• TIAMIN (B1): 1.2 mg for men, 1.1 mg for women.
• Riboflavin (b2): 1.3 mg for men, 1.1 mg for women.
• Niacin (B3): 16 mg ne (niacin equivalent) for men, 14 mg NE for women.
• Pantotenic acid (B5): 5 mg (sufficient consumption).
• Pyridoxin (B6): 1.3 mg for adults under 50 years old, 1.7 mg for men over 50 years old, 1.5 mg for women over 50.
• Biotin (B7): 30 μg (sufficient consumption).
• Folic acid (B9): 400 μg DFE (food folate equivalent).
• Kobalamin (B12): 2.4 μg.

B. Food sources of group b vitamins

• TIAMIN (B1): Whole grain products, pork, legumes, nuts, seeds.
• Riboflavin (b2): Dairy products, eggs, meat, green leafy vegetables, enriched grain products.
• Niacin (B3): Meat, poultry, fish, peanuts, enriched grain products.
• Pantotenic acid (B5): Widely distributed in food products, including meat, eggs, dairy products, vegetables.
• Pyridoxin (B6): Meat, poultry, fish, bananas, potatoes, enriched grain products.
• Biotin (B7): Eggs, liver, nuts, seeds, sweet potatoes.
• Folic acid (B9): Dark green leafy vegetables, legumes, citrus fruits, enriched grain products.
• Kobalamin (B12): Products of animal origin (meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products), enriched products (vegetable milk, grain products). Vegetarians and vegans are recommended to take vitamin B12 additives.

IV. B vitamins deficiency and its consequences for the heart

B vitamins deficiency can negatively affect the health of the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of developing various cardiac diseases. Risk factors for the deficiency of B vitamins include:

• Unstable nutrition
• Vegetarian or vegan diet (especially vitamin B12 deficiency)
• Alcoholism
• Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract affecting the absorption of nutrients (for example, Crohn’s disease, celiac disease)
• Some drugs (for example, metformin, proton pump inhibitors)
• Elderly age (decrease in absorption of vitamin B12)

The consequences of a deficiency of group B vitamins for the heart:

• Hypergomocistineemia: The deficiency of folic acid, vitamin B12 and vitamin B6 can lead to an increase in the level of homocysteine, increasing the risk of atherosclerosis, thrombosis and other cardiovascular diseases.
• Heart failure: Tiamin deficiency (B1) can lead to the development of Beri Beri, a disease characterized by heart failure, edema and neurological disorders. Cobalamine deficiency (B12) can lead to the development of anemia, which can aggravate heart failure.
• Arterial hypertension: The deficiency of folic acid and vitamin B6 can help increase blood pressure.
• Arrhythmias: Tiamine deficiency can affect the function of the nervous system that regulates the heart rhythm and contribute to the development of arrhythmias.
• Endothelial dysfunction: Riboflavin deficiency and other B vitamins can worsen the function of the vascular endothelium.

V. Vitamins of group B and heart disease: evidence base

Numerous studies studied the relationship between group B vitamins and the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The evidence base for various vitamins of group B and various heart diseases varies.

A. Folic acid, vitamin B12 and vitamin B6 and stroke risk

Numerous meta-analysis of clinical studies showed that the addition of folic acid, vitamin B12 and vitamin B6 effectively reduces the level of homocysteine ​​in the blood. A decrease in homocysteine ​​levels is associated with a reduction in the risk of stroke, especially in populations with a high level of homocysteine ​​and low folic acid consumption. However, the impact on the risk of other cardiovascular diseases, such as myocardial infarction, remains less convincing.

B. Niacin and cardiovascular disease

Clinical studies have shown that niacin reduces the level of LDL, triglycerides and increases the level of HDLs, and can reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, such as myocardial infarction and stroke, especially in patients with dyslipidemia. However, the use of niacin may be accompanied by side effects, and it should be taken under the supervision of a doctor. Recent studies are questioned by the benefits of Niacin in combination with statins to prevent cardiovascular diseases.

C. Tiamin and heart failure

Tiamine deficiency can lead to the development of Beri Berie, a disease characterized by heart failure. Adding thiamine can improve the function of the heart in patients with Beri Beri. However, the role of thiamine in the treatment of heart failure, not related to Beri Bury, remains the subject of further research.

D. Other group B vitamins and heart disease

The evidence base for the influence of other vitamins of group B (riboflavin, pantotenic acid, biotin) is limited to the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Further research is needed to study the role of these vitamins in the health of the heart.

VI. Cautions and contraindications

Although group B vitamins are usually considered safe, when taking high doses, they can cause side effects. Some B vitamins can interact with drugs. Before taking vitamin additives, it is recommended to consult a doctor, especially if you have any diseases or you take any medicine.

• Niacin: It can cause redness of the skin, itching, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, an increase in blood glucose and liver damage.
• Pyridoxin (B6): When taking very high doses (more than 200 mg per day), neurological disorders can cause.
• Folic acid: Can mask the deficiency of vitamin B12. With high doses, the growth of precancerous cells can accelerate.

People with kidney, liver or other serious diseases should consult a doctor before taking vitamin additives.

VII. Conclusion

B vitamins play an important role in maintaining the health of the cardiovascular system. They participate in a decrease in homocysteine ​​level, improve the function of endothelium, reduce blood pressure and improve lipid profile. Sufficient consumption of group B vitamins with food or using additives can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, before taking vitamin additives, it is recommended to consult a doctor. Further research is needed for a more complete understanding of the role of various vitamins of group B in the health of the heart.