Thiamine helps our body turn food into energy, and to keep the nervous system healthy (1). Pyridoxine is essential for normal brain development, and for healthy nervous and immune systems. Pyridoxine also plays an important role in the way our red blood cells carry oxygen to our tissues, contributing to symptoms of anemia such as fatigue, brain fog, sub-optimal immune function and some mood imbalances. Some chronic medical conditions and medications can deplete our B6 (2).
L-Carnitine plays a critical role in energy production by transporting fatty acids into the mitochondria where they are utilized in the form of oxidation to produce our cellular energy currency, ATP. Carnitine also helps remove toxic buildup from the mitochondria making it an interesting area of research related to Alzheimer’s disease. Ongoing studies suggest a hypothesis that by reducing the toxic burden on the mitochondria, they are able to work more efficiently, potentially alleviating the degeneration of brain structures. Researchers are also studying the effect of Carnitine on cardiovascular health. It is thought that Carnitine helps decrease inflammation and moderates oxidative stress. A 2023 meta analysis of four randomized trials showed that L-Carnitine supplementation reduced fasting glucose, LDL cholesterol, and apolipoproteins A1 & B100 (3). Additional studies showed that study participants who used L-carnitine supplements in combination with a weight loss program lost more weight than those on a weight loss program with placebo (3).
Methionine is an antioxidant shown to help improve fatty liver, liver fibrosis, insulin resistance and inflammation (4) and may help mobilize fat deposits for excretion.
Inositol is a form of sugar found in your body that is used for the growth and development of cells. Research has shown that it may have many beneficial effects on metabolic syndrome, symptoms of PCOS, cholesterol, insulin resistance and mood (5).
Choline is a nutrient typically obtained from our diet. Choline contributes methyl groups needed in the process of metabolism and provides the building blocks needed to maintain the structural integrity of our cells. Choline is also a building block for the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is critical for memory, mood, muscle control and nervous system function. Some small studies have shown a link between higher choline levels and improved cognitive performance in adults (6). Adequate choline intake is necessary for optimal liver function, and studies have shown a return to normal liver function in some groups of patients after supplementation with choline (6).
1.About thiamine
2.Vitamin B-6
3.Carnitine
4.Methionine as a double-edged sword in health and disease: Current perspective and future challenges
5.Inositol
6.Choline
