Pyridoxine - Vitamin B6

Pyridoxine is a member of the B-complex vitamins, is water-soluble and relatively stable to heat. The major metabolic function of vitamin B6 is as a coenzyme. It plays an important role in protein, carbohydrate, and lipid metabolism.

It must be present for the production of antibodies and red blood cells. Vitamin B6 helps maintain the balance of sodium and potassium, and to regulate body fluids and promote normal functions of the nervous and musculoskeletal systems. It is required for the proper absorption of vitamin B12, the production of digestive acids, for the metabolism of magnesium and zinc. Vitamin B6 is usually excreted in the urine 8 hours after digestion, and fasting and reducing diets can deplete the body’s B6 supply.

FOOD SOURCES

Avocado, banana, bran, bread, brewers yeast, carrrots, chicken, corn, seafood, nuts, legumes, pulses, seeds and whole grain, liver.

SUPPLEMENTATION

Pyridoxine hydrochloride.

SIGNS OF DEFICIENCY

Alzheimer's disease, anaemia, anxiety, arthritis, atherosclerosis, decreased levels of dopamine, confusion, depression and slowness, cracks around the mouth and eyes, diminished sex drive, discoloration of the tongue, emotional depression, hair loss, heart disorders, hyperactivity, increase in urination, insomnia, irritability, kidney stones, low blood sugar, low glucose tolerance, neuritis, nervousness, numbness and cramps in arms and legs, sensitivity to insulin, skin lesions, temporary paralysis of a limb, visual disturbances, weakness. Low levels of B6 allow methionine to be broken down into homocysteine which attacks heart muscle.

SIGNS OF TOXICITY

There are no known toxic effects at moderate doses, however, doses in very large amounts (2000-6000 mg/day) taken for a prolonged time can cause nerve damage, impairment of sensory nerves including burning sensations, pain in limbs, numb skin, clumsiness and loss of balance.

DAILY REQUIREMENT

Approx. 2mcg.