Why you need it? Vitamin B6 is the master vitamin in the processing of amino acids – the building blocks of all proteins and some hormones. B6 also aids in the formation of several neurotransmitters and is thus an essential nutrient in the regulation of mental processes and possibly mood. More specifically, it is involved in: • Transamination: the transfer of NH2 to other amino acids. • Deamination: removal of amino groups from certain amino acids to be used for an energy source. • Desulphurization: transfer of the sulphydryl group (HS) from one amino acid, methionine, to another, serine, to form cysteine. • Decarboxylation: the removal of COOH groups from certain amino acids to form another compound. Required in the synthesis of the neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine, and histamine from tryptophan, tyrosine, and histamine, P5P can be highly concentrated in the brain even when low levels exist in the blood. Required for the formation of alpha aminolevulinic acid, a precursor of haem in haemoglobin. Promotes release of glycogen from liver and muscle as glucose-1-phosphate. Vital for the formation of sphygolipids involved in the development of the myelin sheath surrounding nerve cells. Deficiency Symptoms: Vitamin B6 deficiency can manifest as impaired immunity, skin lesions, and mental confusion. However, clinical deficiencies are considered rare. Marginal B6 deficiency patterns have been noted among women using birth control pills, alcoholics, and patients with kidney failure. Good Food Sources: Potatoes, bananas, raisin bran, lentils, liver, turkey and tuna.
Precautions: GRAS- Generally recognized as safe. No adverse reactions, side effects or overdose symptoms expected when taken within the recommended amounts. Side effects from vitamin B6 are dose-dependent. While therapeutic doses of 3000mg per day have been used, toxic side effects from vitamin B6 become more common when intake reaches 2,000mg per day. Peripheral neuropathy at does greater than 500mg per day over a few months have been observed. These symptoms usually disappear once the vitamin B6 is discontinued, but may linger for a few months if severe. Pregnant and lactating women should avoid daily doses of vitamin B6 greater than 100mg. Individuals on L-Dopa for Parkinson's disease. The information provided on this site is for educational purposes only. Neither the information provided nor products supplied or offered should be construed to be in any way substitutes for medical attention or prescribed medication. Consult with your healthcare professional before taking any supplements or herbal remedies if you are suffering from an undiagnosed illness or if you are on prescribed medication.
