vitamin B complex

vitamin B complex

noun

Definition of VITAMIN B COMPLEX

: a group of water-soluble vitamins that are found especially in yeast, seed germs, eggs, liver and flesh, and vegetables and that have varied metabolic functions and include coenzymes and growth factors —called also B complex — compare biotin, niacin, pantothenic acid, riboflavin

First Known Use of VITAMIN B COMPLEX

1928

vitamin B complex

noun    (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of VITAMIN B COMPLEX

: a group of water-soluble vitamins found especially in yeast, seed germs, eggs, liver and flesh, and vegetables that have varied metabolic functions and include coenzymes and growth factors—called also B complex; see biotin, niacin, pantothenic acid

vitamin B complex

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Water-soluble organic compounds with loosely similar properties, distribution in natural sources, and physiological functions. Most are coenzymes, and all appear essential to the metabolic processes of all animal life. They include thiamin (B), riboflavin (B), niacin, vitamin B, pantothenic acid, folic acid, biotin, and vitamin B (cobalamin); some authorities also include choline, carnitine, lipoic acid, inositol, and para-aminobenzoic acid. Vitamin B is needed for metabolism of amino acids and prevention of skin and nerve disorders. Vitamin B prevents pernicious anemia and is involved in nucleic-acid synthesis, fat metabolism, and conversion of carbohydrate to fat. The B complex vitamins are particularly abundant in cereal grains, meats, nuts, and some fruits and vegetables.