Vitamin B6 is the collective term for the vitamin B6 substances pyridoxol, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine. Pyridoxine, like many other B vitamins, acts as a coenzyme in metabolism. In this way, it is involved in more than 100 reactions of amino acid metabolism and is therefore essential for protein balance.
What are the functions of Vitamin B6?
In addition to its central importance for protein metabolism, Vitamin B6 is also important for the formation of neurotransmitters (messenger substances) in the brain, influences the formation and action of certain hormones, and stimulates the immune response. Furthermore, it is needed for the body's own production of Vitamin Niacin from 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 in childhood and pregnancy. Of all B vitamins, Vitamin B6 is the most important vitamin for a healthy immune system. Vitamin B6 is also important – in conjunction with folic acid and Vitamin B12 – for the breakdown of the substance homocysteine. If these vitamins are not sufficiently present in the body, homocysteine accumulates in the body. This leads to elevated homocysteine levels in the blood, which is considered a risk factor for arteriosclerosis.
Vitamin B6: Use
An increased need for Vitamin B6 can be effectively compensated by appropriate dietary supplements such as Vitamin B6 capsules, e.g., during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Deficiency situations also arise due to alcoholism, febrile illnesses, and with long-term medication use. For example, antibiotics, antidepressants, and hormonal contraceptives (the birth control pill) can trigger a Vitamin B6 deficiency.
Buy Vitamin B6
Further areas of application for Vitamin B6 preparations:
For anemia: In newborns, Vitamin B6 deficiency can lead to anemia and seizures.
Prevention of arteriosclerosis: In cases of elevated homocysteine levels, a good supply of Vitamin B6 in combination with folic acid and Vitamin B12 is important.
Carpal tunnel syndrome: The nerve disorder in the hands, which manifests as weakness, numbness, and pain in the fingers, can be alleviated with Vitamin B6. Tingling or numbness in the arms and legs and other forms of nerve inflammation can also be influenced by Vitamin B6.
Premenstrual syndrome: Symptoms such as mood swings, edema, acne, and breast tenderness triggered by premenstrual syndrome can be related to a Vitamin B6 deficiency.
Vitamin B6 Foods: Which foods contain the vitamin?
Vitamin B6 is found in fish, offal, chicken, beef, pork, whole wheat bread, and legumes. Our bodies can almost completely absorb and utilize pyridoxine from animal-based foods. Pyridoxine from plant-based foods, however, is less usable.
Vitamin B6 Deficiency
A deficiency of Vitamin B6 first manifests as skin changes and nervous disorders. Later, muscle weakness and anemia develop. Other deficiency symptoms include growth disorders, sore corners of the mouth, kidney stones, fatigue, depression, insomnia, and susceptibility to infections.
If even one point applies, your Vitamin B6 supply may be insufficient, which is why it may be advisable to buy Vitamin B6:
Do you eat too few whole grain products, few legumes?
Do you eat hardly any raw food?
Do you drink alcohol regularly?
Do you have a very one-sided diet?
Do you regularly follow slimming diets?
