Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
Why Does the Body Need Vitamin B6?
 
Vitamin B6 is involved in more functions in the human body than any other nutrient.

1. It plays a vital role in the prevention of cancer and boosting the immune system
2. It is needed to make antibodies and slow tumor growth
3. It blocks the formation of a chemical called Homocysteine which is toxic and attacks the heart and allows cholesterol to be deposited around the heart
4. It helps to relieve edema (water retention)
5. It is needed for the creation of hydrochloric acid
6. It assists in the absorption of fats and proteins
7. It promotes the formation of red blood cells
8. It helps maintain the balance of sodium and potassium in the body
9. It is needed for normal brain function
10. It can help reduce the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
11. It is required for the synthesis of the nucleic acids RNA and DNA which hold the genetic instructions for reproduction of all cells
12. It aids in the absorption and utilization of vitamin B12, magnesium and niacin
13. It is helpful in the treatment of Arthritis, allergies, and Asthma
14. It is very important to take during pregnancy because of the vital role it plays in cell replication
15. Along with B2, it is recommended for Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
16. A dosage of 100mg/day has been shown to prevent reoccurrence of oxalate kidney stones
 
What are some symptoms of Deficiency of Vitamin B6?
 
1. It is very common to have a deficiency of B6 acne
2. anemia
3. anorexia
4. arthritis
5. conjunctivitis
6. convulsions
7. cracks and sores on the mouth and lips
8. depression
9. dizziness
10. fatigue
11. flaky skin (seborrhea dermatitis)
12. hair loss
13. headaches
14. hearing problems
15. hyperirritability
16. impaired wound healing
17. inflammation of the mouth and gums
18. learning difficulties
19. memory loss
20. nausea
21. oily facial skin
22. sore tongue
23. vomiting
 
Where do you naturally find Vitamin B6 (in alphabetical order)?
1. avocado
2. bananas
3. beans
4. blackstrap molasses
5. brewer’s yeast
6. broccoli
7. Brussels sprouts
8. brown rice
9. cabbage
10. cantaloupe
11. carrots
12. chicken
13. corn
14. dulse (seaweed)
15. eggs
16. fish
17. meat
18. peas
19. plantains
20. potatoes
21. rice bran
22. soybeans
23. spinach
24. sunflower seeds
25. tempeh
26. walnuts
27. wheat germ
28. whole grains
 
Notes and/or Cautions:
Some pharmaceuticals may increase the need for Vitamin B6 such as birth control pills, antidepressants and estrogen therapy. Absorption of B6 into the body is blocked by cortisone drugs and diuretics. Taking over 1,000mg per day for an extended period of time can be toxic and may result in nerve damage
 
Recommended Dosages for Maintaining Good Health (for Adults): 50-100 mg