VITAMIN B6 – PYRIDOXINE

Function
A coenzyme used by the body to improve the absorption of fatty acids, amino acids and vitamin B12. Vitamin B6 helps to balance sodium and potassium levels, reduces water retention, helps the production of hydrochloric acid, is used in the formation of nucleic acids (used in DNA and RNA), stimulates the manufacture of red blood cells and is used in the reproduction and growth of all cells. Vitamin B6 is used to treat conditions including PMS, allergies, morning sickness, depression, side effects caused by oral contraceptives, arthritis and is a preventative against cancer, atherosclerosis and oxalate kidney stones.)

Natural Sources
Potatoes, alfalfa, peas, blackstrap molasses, tempeh, soybeans, broccoli, sunflower seeds, cantaloupe, avocado, brown rice, corn and carrot.

RDA
50 mg

Deficiency Symptoms
Arthritis, depression, lethargy, infantile convulsions, anorexia, inflamed gums, skin problems, nausea, nervous disorders and anemia.

Overdose Symptoms
Headache and sometimes an allergy.

Interactions
It is not recommended to supplement for more than one month. Pregnant or lactating women and children should use vitamin B6 according to label instructions. Do not use vitamin B6 with Levodopa (used for Parkinson’s disease) as it decreases the effects of the Levodopa. Diuretics and cortisone drugs halt the absorption of vitamin B6. The use of oral contraceptives, estrogen therapy and antidepressants may increase the need for vitamin B6.

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