Vitamin B

Vitamin B6 sources are spinach, pinto beans, oatmeal, pistachios, avocados and bananas. Other sources, are pork meats, whole grains and cereals, legumes, green and leafy vegetables. Vitamin B6 exists in three major chemical forms: (1) Pyridoxine, (2) Pyridoxal, and (3) Pyridoxamine. It is essential for good health, especially since it is required by more than 100 enzymes involved in protein metabolism. The nervous and immune systems both need it to function efficiently, as it helps maintain the health of lymphoid organs (thymus, spleen, and lymph nodes) that make white blood cells. Furthermore, it’s required for the conversion of tryptophan (an amino acid) to niacin (a vitamin). Some of the functions of Vitamin B-6 include the following: (1) Make Hemoglobin – hemoglobin within red blood cells carries oxygen to tissues; helps increase the amount of oxygen carried by hemoglobin; and if in deficiency, can result in a form of anemia that is similar to iron deficiency anemia; (2) aids in maintaining blood glucose (sugar) within a normal range; and (3) helps convert stored carbohydrates or other nutrients into glucose to maintain normal blood sugar levels when caloric intake is low. While a shortage of Vitamin B6 will limit these functions, supplements of this vitamin do not enhance them in well-nourished individuals. Taking extra B6 won’t lower one’s blood glucose levels or help provide extra energy. 

Researchers have been investigating the relationship between Vitamin B6 status and a wide variety of neurologic conditions such as seizures, chronic pain, depression, headache and Parkinson’s disease. Clinical trials have failed to support any significant benefit for the use of B6 for treatment of PMS and carpal tunnel syndrome, however, claimed benefits include treating hypertension during pregnancy and morning sickness. Greater than 100mg/day can be detrimental, while greater than 200mg/day can lead to irreversible damage.