🧠 Vitamins B1–B12: Mnemonics, Deficiencies, and Exam Clues
From beriberi to B12 deficiency, the B-complex vitamins are heavily tested on Step 1 and Step 2 CK. This blog breaks down the functions, clinical deficiency signs, and easy mnemonics for remembering all B-vitamins. Whether it’s confusion, glossitis, or anemia — we’ve got a shortcut to help you recall it fast.
Mnemonic: “The Rude Pirate Never Plays Poker Before Fighting Colossal Monsters”
This gives you the B-numbers in order:
Thiamine, Riboflavin, Niacin, Pantothenic acid, Pyridoxine, Biotin, Folate, Cobalamin
🧠 Quick-Reference Table
| B Vitamin | Name | Function | Deficiency Clues |
|---|---|---|---|
| B1 | Thiamine | Pyruvate dehydrogenase, TCA entry | Wernicke-Korsakoff, beriberi |
| B2 | Riboflavin | FAD/FMN cofactor | Cheilosis, corneal vascularization |
| B3 | Niacin | NAD⁺/NADP⁺ coenzyme | Pellagra: diarrhea, dementia, dermatitis |
| B5 | Pantothenic Acid | Coenzyme A, fatty acid synthesis | Dermatitis, alopecia, adrenal issues |
| B6 | Pyridoxine | Transaminations, neurotransmitter synthesis | Sideroblastic anemia, neuropathy |
| B7 | Biotin | Carboxylation reactions | Dermatitis, alopecia (raw eggs) |
| B9 | Folate | DNA synthesis | Macrocytic anemia, no neuro signs |
| B12 | Cobalamin | Methionine + methylmalonyl-CoA metabolism | Macrocytic anemia + neurologic signs |
🧬 Clinical Integration Tips
B1: Think “Alcoholics and Asians” — Wernicke’s triad and beriberi
B3: Hartnup disease, isoniazid use → pellagra
B6: Isoniazid → ↓ B6 → seizures or anemia
B12 vs. Folate: Only B12 causes neurologic deficits
B7: Avidin in raw egg whites binds biotin (rare but tested!)
🔄 KOTC QBank includes metabolic pathways and deficiency-linked symptoms.
⚕ Bonus Mnemonic: B2 → 2 ATP, B3 → 3 ATP
B2 = Riboflavin → FAD = 2 ATP
B3 = Niacin → NAD = 3 ATP
Helps you connect vitamin to energy production!
📌 Before You Go…
Don’t let nutrition be your weak spot—memorize the vitamins once and forever.
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