What is VITAMIN B6 (PYRIDOXINE)?

Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that your body needs for several functions. It’s significant to protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism and the creation of red blood cells and neurotransmitters (Trusted Source). Your body cannot produce vitamin B6, so you must obtain it from foods or supplements. Most people get enough vitamin B6 through their diet, but certain populations may be at risk for deficiency. Consuming adequate amounts of vitamin B6 is important for optimal health and may even prevent and treat chronic diseases (Trusted Source).

Vitamin B6 is a type of B vitamin. It can be found in certain foods such as cereals, beans, vegetables, liver, meat, and eggs. It can also be made in a laboratory. Vitamin B6 is used for preventing and treating low levels of pyridoxine (pyridoxine deficiency) and the anemia that may result. It is also used for heart disease, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), depression, and many other conditions. Vitamin B6 is frequently used in combination with other B vitamins in vitamin B complex products.

Vitamin B6 and Health

Vitamin B6 has been widely studied for its role in disease prevention. The vitamin in supplement form shows the most promise for the treatment of pregnancy-induced nausea, but such use should only occur under the supervision of a physician. Adequate blood levels of B6 may be associated with a lower risk of cancers, compared to low blood levels. However, the use of separate B6 supplements (apart from the RDA amounts in typical multivitamin preparations) is inconclusive and not recommended.

How does it work?

Pyridoxine is required for the proper function of sugars, fats, and proteins in the body. It is also required for the proper growth and development of the brain, nerves, skin, and many other parts of the body.