Vitamin b6 Benefits

Vitamin B6, also referred to as Pyridoxine is a water soluble vitamin. It is an essential part of the Vitamin B complex group. Vitamin B6 is also referred to as anti dermatitis factor, as deficiency of the same results in dermatitis. Topical creams containing B6 vitamin is available over the counter. Vitamin B6 is found in abundance in legumes, flour, egg, fish, milk, liver, cheese, meat, cereals and vegetables, such as potatoes, spinach, peas and carrot.

Other good sources are kale, cauliflower, tuna, celery, mustard, asparagus, hard, brussels sprouts, banana and greens. Turnip, spinach and bell peppers are excellent sources of vitamin B6.

Vitamin B6 benefits the nervous system, skin and red blood cells. Pyridoxine is essential for the formation of myelin, which requires the presence of norepinephrine. It is also necessary for the synthesis of serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter. B6 is used in combination with other vitamins, as a supplement. Deficiencies in mild form are seen. It affects the central nervous system in children. In the case of adults, it harms the mucous membrane, peripheral nerves and the blood cells. Individuals with certain complications, such as cirrhosis, uremia, hyperthyroidism, congestive heart failure, uremia, alcoholism and hyperthyroidism are at high risk for deficiency of vitamin B12. It is also essential for protein metabolism. The amount of oxygen carrying capacity of red blood cells is increased by pyridoxine. The conversion of tryptophan to niacin is aided by vitamin B6.

Vitamin B6 aids in the prevention of increased accumulation of homocysteine. Neuritis or inflammation of the nerves is caused due to the deficiency of pyridoxine. Intake of certain medications, such as penicillamine or isoniazid also causes a deficiency of vitamin B6. Smoking also affects the B6 absorption. A high amount of vitamin B6 is lost during the various processes of cooking, such as freezing. Canning results in 60 to 80 per cent loss of pyridoxine. Convulsions or seizures, fatigue, malaise, seborrheic dermatitis and eczema denote a deficiency.

Certain conditions are treated or prevented by the intake of vitamin B6. Some of these conditions are associated with the cardiovascular system, such as hypertension, atherosclerosis and hyperhomocysteinemia. Autism, epilepsy, carpal tunnel syndrome, diabetic neuropathy, depression, eczema, dermatitis and acne are the other conditions.

The recommended dietary allowance for adults is 1.3 to 1.7 milligrams in males and 1.3 to 1.5 milligrams in females. It increases to 1.9 milligrams in pregnant women and 2 milligrams in nursing mothers. Pyridoxine hydrochloride is the common form of vitamin B6 that is commercially seen. Supplements comprising of pyridoxal-5-phosphate are also available.

Submitted on January 16, 2014