Beef-up on B-Vitamins for Peak Performance

With increased time demands and hectic lifestyles, finding enough energy to get through the day is a major concern for women. While maintaining high energy levels is almost always a function of getting enough sleep, diet also can play a role. For instance, protein consumption stimulates the release of dopamine, which triggers the body to increase energy, concentration levels, alertness and productivity.¹ Protein, along with carbohydrates and fat, can also serve as a source of fuel, but without essential B vitamins, the body has a tough time unleashing energy from these nutrients.^1,2,3 Calorie-for-calorie, beef is one of the best protein sources of essential B vitamins including riboflavin, niacin, B₆ and B₁₂.⁴

• Niacin helps produce energy in every cell in the body by functioning as part of a coenzyme that helps turn carbohydrates and fat into fuel. ^1,2,3 Beef is a good source of niacin, providing 18 percent of the Daily Value.^4,5
  
• Riboflavin functions as part of a coenzyme to produce energy. It also helps promote healthy skin, eyes and clear vision. ^1,2,3 To get the same amount of riboflavin found in a three-ounce serving of beef, you'd need to consume over two three-ounce chicken breasts.⁴
  
• Thiamin functions as a coenzyme to help produce energy from carbohydrates. It also helps promote normal appetite and contributes to normal nervous system function.^1,2,3
  
• Beef is also an excellent source of B₁₂ and a good source of B₆ as defined by Food Label Laws and Regulations:
  
• B₁₂, found only in animal products, helps produce red blood cells, which deliver oxygen to cells.^1,2,3 Many Americans are not meeting their needs.⁷ People who severely limit intake of animal products are at increased risk of B₁₂ deficiency, which can cause fatigue.^1,2,3 Beef is an excellent source of B₁₂, providing 37 percent of the Daily Value. And while it is widely available in the Meat Group, to get the same amount of B₁₂ in a three-ounce serving of beef, you would need to consume approximately seven three-ounce chicken breasts.^4,5
  
• B₆, along with B₁₂, may play a role in preventing stroke and heart disease. Researchers have found that these B vitamins lower homocysteine levels - an amino acid that has been linked to increased risk of heart disease and stroke.^2,3,4 Beef is a good source of B₆, providing 16 percent of the Daily Value.^4,5