Daily Value Gut Check: The Hidden Role of B Vitamins
Jun 4, 2025
Explore the intriguing connection between B vitamins and gut health, as these nutrients may act as prebiotics influencing the microbiome. Discover how B vitamins interact with gut bacteria and the potential benefits of cross-feeding. The discussion also touches on controversies surrounding their absorption and ongoing research into their therapeutic uses. Practical applications and future directions for understanding B vitamins in relation to gut health are also highlighted.
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B Vitamins as Prebiotics
- B-group vitamins may act as prebiotics, favorably altering gut microbiota composition.
- These vitamins can enhance metabolic functions through their interaction with gut bacteria.
Vitamins' Unique Prebiotic Role
- Vitamins like B are not traditionally considered prebiotics because we and bacteria both use them.
- However, vitamins that influence gut bacteria composition are seen as adjacent to prebiotics.
Cross-feeding Supports Microbiome
- Certain gut bacteria produce B vitamins that support other bacteria via cross-feeding.
- This symbiosis maintains a diverse, stable microbiome, crucial for health.