Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that is essential for the production of red blood cells and the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. It is also required for cell growth, the synthesis of proteins, the absorption of iron, and the production of serotonin and norepinephrine, which are neurotransmitters in the brain and nervous system. Vitamin B6 is also known to have antioxidant properties.
What is vitamin B6?
Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that is naturally present in foods like meat, fish, poultry, eggs, nuts, whole grains, and many vegetables. Vitamin B6 is important for the function of many enzymes, including the enzymes that break down proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.
Deficiency in Vitamin B6
These are some common symptoms for low levels of B6 in the body;
- Confusion
- Low immunity
- Depression
- Skin problems
Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)
The RDA for men
ages
14-50 years is 1.3 mg
51+ years, 1.7 mg.
The RDA for women
ages
14-18 years is 1.2 mg
19-50 years, 1.3 mg
51+ years, 1.5 mg
For pregnancy the amount increases to 1.9 mg mcg - 2.0 mg
What is vitamin B6 good for?
Vitamin B6 is required for the synthesis of red blood cells, DNA, RNA, and neurotransmitters. It is used for the treatment of depression, anemia, premenstrual syndrome, and insomnia. Vitamin B6 is also used to treat type 1 diabetes, alcoholism, and ADHD.
Vitamin B6 is especially important for pregnant women, as it helps with the development of the fetus. Vitamin B6 also helps maintain healthy skin, hair, and nails. Vitamin B6 is also important for healthy nervous system function. Vitamin B6 is also used to treat certain conditions like anemia, depression, migraines, and heart disease.
Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that is commonly referred to as pyridoxine or pyridoxal. It is often found in the form of pyridoxal-5-phosphate or pyridoxal-5-phosphate-5-dehydrogenase. It is a cofactor in many biochemical reactions.
Best Food Sources
Vitamin B6 is found in foods such as;
- poultry
- beef
- pork
- eggs
- cheese
- milk
Vitamin B6 is a vitamin that is found in a variety of foods. It is a water-soluble vitamin that is involved in many bodily functions and is important for the functioning of the nervous system. It is also important for energy production, the synthesis of proteins, and the metabolism of carbohydrates.
