Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Vitamin B complex—comprising several distinct B vitamins such as B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B5 (pantothenic acid), B6 (pyridoxine), B7 (biotin), B9 (folate), and B12 (cobalamin)—has been commonly recommended to support adrenal gland function. The strongest scientific rationale centers around vitamin B5 (pantothenic acid), which is essential for the synthesis of coenzyme A, a molecule crucial for the production of adrenal hormones (especially cortisol) in the adrenal cortex. Animal studies from as early as the 1950s showed that pantothenic acid deficiency led to impaired adrenal function and reduced hormone synthesis. Some small human studies suggest that adequate B vitamin status supports healthy stress responses, though robust clinical trials are lacking.

Beyond B5, other B vitamins play indirect roles in energy metabolism and neurotransmitter synthesis, both of which are relevant to the stress response mediated by the adrenal glands. However, the evidence that B vitamin supplementation directly improves adrenal health or treats adrenal fatigue in otherwise healthy individuals is only moderate. Most claims are extrapolated from biochemical roles or studies in deficiency states, rather than strong interventional trials in humans. Therefore, while there is a scientific basis for the involvement of B vitamins in adrenal hormone synthesis and stress adaptation, the clinical evidence for supplementation in people without deficiencies is limited, justifying a moderate evidence rating.

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