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B6 (Pyridoxine)
B6 (Pyridoxine):
Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin. It is also known by the names pyridoxine, pyridoxamine, and pyridoxal. Vitamin B6 performs function as a cofactor for about 70 different enzyme systems – most of which have something to do with amino acid and protein metabolism. Because vitamin B6 is also involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters in the brain and nerve cells, it is frequently recommended as a nutrient to support mental function (mood) and nerve conduction. Some athletic supplements include vitamin B6 because of its role in conversion of glycogen to glucose for energy in muscle tissue. Food sources include poultry, fish, whole grains and bananas. Often recommended (erroneously) for carpal tunnel syndrome.
Supports optimal nervous system function
May improve emotional outlook/mood (serotonin synthesis)
Needed for hemoglobin synthesis and red blood cell growth
Immune support (white blood cell development)
Arthritis relief
Vitamin B6, like most of the B-vitamins, is involved as a cofactor in a wide variety of enzyme systems. As such, "structure/function" claims can be made for virtually any health condition. For example, because B6 is needed in the conversion of the amino acid tryptophan into niacin, a common B6 claim relates to "healthy cholesterol levels" (because niacin can help lower cholesterol in some people). Because B6 also plays a role in prostaglandin synthesis, claims are often made for the "benefits" of B6 in regulating blood pressure, muscle and heart function and pain levels (each of which is partially regulated by prostaglandins). Vitamin B6 needs are increased in those individuals consuming a high protein diet as well as in women taking oral contraceptives (birth control pills).
Scientific Support
Vitamin B6 supplements (in conjunction with folic acid) have been shown to have a significant effect in reducing plasma levels of homocysteine (an amino acid metabolite linked to increased risk of atherosclerosis). Scientific data show that homocysteine concentrations are reduced with low to medium divided doses of vitamin B6 (with or without folic acid). When combined with magnesium (300 mg/day as magnesium oxide), vitamin B6 (10 mg/day) appears to reduce oxalate excretion and decrease the occurrence of kidney stones
Vitamin B6 is often recommended as a treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS). In the vast majority of cases, CTS is caused by repetitive hand/wrist motions (such as typing), which causes inflammation and nerve compression in a region of the wrist known as the "carpal tunnel." CTS is also known to occur in some women during pregnancy, in which case the nerve compression may be related to water retention and swelling, rather than to repetitive motion. B6 is the most frequently recommended dietary supplement in cases of CTS (traditional treatments often include rest, splints, anti-inflammatory medications and surgery). In some cases of CTS, approximately 100-300 mg of vitamin B6 in divided doses has been shown to alleviate symptoms – although these results are not consistent and several studies have found no benefit of vitamin B6 in treating CTS.
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