Vitamin B 6
Vitamin B6, often called pyridoxine, is one of the most essential and widely used vitamins in the body.
It is needed for almost all body functions, including proper growth, and the maintenance of almost all body structures.
It has an effect on both physical and mental health.
 

How Vitamin B6 can help

• Helps assimilate proteins and fats
• Needed for healthy blood and blood vessels
• Aids in the production of red blood cells and antibodies
• Helps with symptoms caused by PMS
• May help prevent coronary heart disease
• May help prevent oxalate kidney stones
• May reduce the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel syndrome
• Acts as a mild natural diuretic
• Helps reduce night muscle spasm, leg cramps and numbness of the hands

Symptoms of deficiency may include

Skin eruptions, nervousness, depression, irritability, insomnia, loss of appetite, anemia, dizziness, numbness, pins and needles, weakness, fatigue
 

Natural sources
Eggs, meat, fish (especially herring and salmon), chicken, spinach, carrots, peas, cabbage, cantaloupe, wheat germ, brewers yeast,; soy products, peanuts, walnuts, sunflower seeds, brown rice.
 

Important

• It should be noted that although vitamin B6 is found in almost all foods (the foods listed above are some of those with the highest levels), it appears that much of this B6 is not absorbed. In addition B6 is easily lost in food processing.It is thought that as much as 70% of the B6 found in food could be lost in this way.
• Smoking lowers the body’s B6 levels.
• Oral contraceptives, some prescription drugs and a high protein diet can increase your bodies need for B6.

Disclaimer: The information presented is for information purposes only. It is based on scientific studies or traditional usage. Consult a health care professional before using supplements or making any changes in prescribed medications. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease