Vitamin B is a group of water-soluble vitamins that play a pivotal role in maintaining the nervous and cardiovascular health of the body. A group of eight B vitamins (Vitamins B1,B2, B3,B5,B6,B7,B9 and B12) form Vitamin B complex. This essential nutrient is needed to develop and maintain the central nervous system. It also aids cell growth and regulates hormone and cholesterol production, cardiovascular health and eye sight. It is pertinent to note that B vitamins are especially important for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding as they aid in fetal brain development and reduce the risk of brain defects. Sources Of Vitamin B Like all other nutrients, food is the major source of this vitamin is food. Vitamin B can be found in a wide variety of foods. Dairy products like milk and cheese, along with eggs, liver, kidney, and meats such as chicken and red meat, provide a rich source of this essential nutrient. Fish like tuna, mackerel, and salmon, as well as shellfish such as oysters and clams, are also excellent sources. Dark green vegetables, including spinach and kale, along with other vegetables like beets, avocados, and potatoes, contribute to your vitamin B intake. Whole grains, cereals, and legumes like kidney beans, black beans, and chickpeas are also valuable sources. Additionally, nuts, seeds, fruits such as citrus, bananas, and watermelon, and soy products like soy milk and tempeh add variety to your vitamin B sources. Other foods, such as blackstrap molasses, wheat germ, and both yeast and nutritional yeast, are also beneficial for meeting your vitamin B needs.You Should Start Taking Vitamin B Complex Supplements When...While most of our Vitamin B complex needs are fulfilled by our diets, there are many people who might show a deficiency. In this case, the concerned people should immediately consult a doctor as they’ll be able to tell whether the person should take a specific B supplement or add a vitamin B complex supplement to their routine. Notably, people who are age 50 or older, pregnant, have certain chronic health conditions, have been taking long-term medication and those who are strictly vegetarian, are more susceptible to a deficiency. What Happens When You Get Excess Vitamin B?You’re unlikely to get too much vitamin B complex from your diet. This is because B complex vitamins are water-soluble. They aren’t stored in your body but are excreted in your urine daily. It is also very unlikely that you will get this nutrient in more than the required amount from supplements. However, some people might get an excess of the following: Vitamin B6-Too much B6 may lead to peripheral neuropathy, which is a loss of feeling in the arms and legs.Folate or folic acid-Too much of this vitamin can cover up the symptoms of a vitamin B12 deficiency, which can eventually lead to nervous system damage.Niacin-Too much niacin may cause skin flushes. Long-term excessive use may lead to liver damage.