Q. I've done a lot of research and there seems to be confusion about B vitamin supplements. Should they be taken as a complex vitamin or taken individually to avoid imbalances? Understanding that everyone's needs are different, how does one know exactly what B vitamins are needed, especially when sub-clinical deficiency symptoms are fairly similar for most of the complex types?

A. Of course there are certain medical conditions that cause deficiencies in some of the B vitamins such as B12, B6, etc. Since B vitamins are water soluble there are really no serious side effects or toxicities, however, niacin B3 can cause flushing, Pantothenic acid B5 can cause diarrhea, and Pyridoxine B6 can cause neurotoxicity which causes some tingling in the hands, etc. It is always better to take a B complex rather than large doses of one, however, there are tests that can tell you where and what B vitamins you may be deficient in. One particular test I am familiar with is called the Organic acids analysis test or Organix. You can order the test kit and also receive consultation through an online service called directlabs.com but first read more about the test at the metametrix site listed below. They developed the test. They may also be able to direct you to someone in your area that can order it at a cheaper price. Or perhaps you can order it from them yourself. You receive the test, recommendations, interpretation, and free consultation from their physicians. I use it in my practice frequently and it provides a lot of useful information. You can read more about the test itself at metametrics http://www.metametrix.com/Organix/ and http://www.directlabs.com/testtypes.php#organic.
I hope this helped answer some of your questions.

Q. Hi, this is GG again, I had emailed you before and received your response about B vitamins and I just want to let you know how helpful you've been and I thank you for taking the time to answer my questions. I'm thinking about following through with an Organix test for vitamin analysis. I have explored many sites including Metametrix and DirectLabs sites you mentioned. I noticed that there are different tests for vitamin analysis throughout my internet exploration, specifically, there is the organix test and then there are blood tests. Which do you suppose would be more accurate?

A. For general information regarding digestion and metabolism of macronutrients, detoxification markers for environmental exposure, intestinal microbial balance markers, and essential amino acids, I think the organix is one of the most useful test I use in my practice. Especially for evaluating B complex deficiencies. Call the people at Metametrix and they are wonderful at recommending the most appropriate test for your needs. B vitamins are largely involved in energy metabolism of protein, carbohydrate, and fat. The Organix test can tell you what is lacking in those metabolic pathways. The test also gives recommendations for nutrients to optimize your nutritional status and correct those deficiencies. I have some people repeat the test after 6-8 months to see what kind of progress has been made. It seems expensive but it is much more scientific than taking expensive supplements you may not need and may even be detrimental to your total optimal nutritional health. I hope this has helped a little more. Stay in touch and good luck.

I hope this helped.  Please contact me for further information or if you have another question!