Vitamin Breakdown Series (Part 5: Vitamin B4?)

Well this is another week into the vitamin series with a little twist. In previous weeks I have discussed about vitamin A, thiamine (vitamin B1), riboflavin (vitamin B2), and niacin (vitamin B3). This week we continue the vitamin breakdown series but this week we discuss exactly what vitamin B4 is? And if its even a vitamin. So lets begin breaking down what this bad boy really is. 

Basics that are not so basic:

For starters this, vitamin B4 is really not a vitamin. Or rather not anymore. But rather it’s made up of three different compounds:

• Adenine
• Carnitine
• Choline

These three musketeers are vital pieces to both DNA and RNA. In short, it effects a bunch of vital organs and is important for other parts of your body to function properly. Studies have been mixed in what they have found in terms of effects for this compound. Some things that researchers have found is that these chemicals can help fortify and make your immune system stronger and more resistant to colds and the flu. One thing you might not know about this little guy is that you can’t buy just “vitamin B4” vitamins. Instead this chemical is represented in a vitamin B complex vitamins. The reason this holds true is because Adenine (one of the chemicals attached referred to as vitamin B4) latches on to other B vitamins, riboflavin and niacin. Unless you’re taking specific vitamin B vitamins you are most likely taking these compounds as well.

Food sources for Vitamin B4:

This B vitamin compound can be found in traditional leafy greens such as your lettuces and broccoli. Other good sources for this vitamin are apples, oranges, and various spices like ginger and catnip. If you’re not fond of any of these foods break a leg and get your money’s worth by consuming raw honey which is rich with these chemicals. So did you learn something new? If so share it with the world. As always feel free to leave any comments you may have otherwise feel free to connect with me on twitter.

Related Posts

Vitamin A

Vitamin B1

Vitamin B2

Vitamin B3

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