Vitamin B6is the collective name for the vitamin B6 substances pyridoxole, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine. Pyridoxine, like many other B vitamins, is involved in metabolism as a coenzyme of an enzyme. Thus, it is involved in more than 100 reactions of amino acid metabolism and is therefore essential for protein metabolism.
What are the functions of vitamin B6?
In addition to hiscentral importance for protein metabolismVitamin B6 is also important forFormation of neurotransmitters(messenger substances) in the brain, influences the formation and action of certain hormones and stimulates the immune system. It is also responsible for the body's own production ofVitamins Niacinfrom tryptophan. Vitamin B6 is involved in the formation of connective tissue and influences the formation and effectiveness of certain hormones. It also promotes cell specialization during childhood and pregnancy. Of allB vitaminsis vitamin B6the most important vitamin for a healthy immune systemVitamin B6 is also important – in combination withFolic acidandVitamin B12- for theDegradation of the substance homocysteineIf these vitamins are not present in sufficient quantities in the body, homocysteine accumulates. This leads to elevated homocysteine levels in the blood, which are considered a risk factor for arteriosclerosis.
Use of vitamin B6
An increased need for vitamin B6 can be effectively compensated by appropriate dietary supplements, e.g.during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Deficiencies also arise from alcoholism, feverish illnesses andwith long-term medication useAntibiotics, antidepressants, and hormonal contraceptives (birth control pills) in particular can trigger a vitamin B6 deficiency.
Other areas of application for vitamin B6 supplements:
In case of anemia (anemia): In newborns, vitamin B6 deficiency can lead to anemia and seizures.
Prevention of arteriosclerosis: If homocysteine levels are elevated, a good supply of vitamin B6 in combination with folic acid and vitamin B12 is important.
Carpal tunnel syndrome: Nerve disorders in the hands, which manifest as weakness, numbness, and pain in the fingers, can be alleviated with vitamin B6. Tingling or numbness in the arms and legs, as well as other forms of nerve inflammation, can also be treated with vitamin B6.
Premenstrual syndromeSymptoms such as mood swings, edema, acne, and breast tenderness caused by premenstrual syndrome may be related to vitamin B6 deficiency.
Which foods contain vitamin B6?
In fish, offal, chicken, beef, pork, whole-wheat bread, and legumes. Pyridoxine from animal-based foods can be absorbed and utilized almost entirely by our bodies. Pyridoxine from plant-based foods, on the other hand, is less readily absorbed.
Am I lacking vitamin B6?
A deficiency first manifests itself inSkin changesand innervous disordersLater, muscle weakness and anemia develop. Further deficiency symptoms include growth disorders,sore corners of the mouth, kidney stones, fatigue, depression, insomnia and susceptibility to infections.
If one of the following applies, your supply of vitamin B6 could be too low:
* Do you eat too few whole grain products, few legumes?
* Do you hardly eat raw food?
* Do you drink alcohol regularly?
* Do you eat a very one-sided diet?
* Do you regularly follow weight loss diets?
