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Pyridoxine (B-6) is one of the most essential and widely used vitamin in the body. It participates in over sixty enzymatic reactions involved in the metabolism of amino acids (the building blocks of protein) and essential fatty acids. It is needed for the proper growth and maintenance of almost all our body structures and for almost all of our body functions.
It plays a role in the conversion of glycogen to glucose for energy in muscle tissue and nitrogen metabolism in protein systhesis.
The nervous system is dependent of B-6 for the production of serotonin and other substances that support the electrical activity in the brain. A deficiency of these substances can result in emotional illnesses, including depression and schizophrenia. Women with a deficiency of B-6 can suffer PMS.
It participates in the production and transport of amino acids in healthy cells and blood vessels and in red blood cells (hemoglobin).
It is essential for the body's utilization of protein, nerve tissues and antibodies.
Women taking oral contraceptives have lower levels of B-6.
This nutrient has also been shown to be of use in the treatment of recurring kidney stones in adults, kidney failure in some infants, a reduction in premature aging and a treatment of melanoma, a deadly form of cancer.
All food contain small amounts of B-6. The highest amounts are found in effs, fish, spinach, carrots, peas, meat, chicken, fish (especially herring and salmon), brewer's yeast, walnuts, sunflower seeds, and wheat germ. Moderate amounts are found in brown rice and other whole grans, blackstrap molasses, avocados, cantaloupes, bananas, cabbage and beans.
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