Health Benefits of Vitamin B6 Pyridoxine

Pyridoxine, which is also known as vitamin B6, is one of the water soluble vitamins. The water soluble vitamins include all of the B vitamins and vitamin C. The fat soluble vitamins include vitamins A, D, E, and K. Unlike the fat-soluble vitamins, the water soluble vitamins are not stored in the body and must be replenished daily. The water soluble vitamins are also easily destroyed during cooking, especially when food is cooked in water, and during storage.

Why do we need pyridoxine (vitamin B6)?

Pyridoxine plays many critical roles in the body. It is necessary for maintaining immune system function and proper hormone balance. It is essential in the configuration of proteins and structural compounds in the body, as well as red blood cells, and chemical transmitters that are part of the nervous system.

B6 is effective against more than 100 health conditions. It’s used against maladies as serious as heart disease and everyday aggravations such as premenstrual syndrome and sensitivity to MSG. It can even help prevent the formation of kidney stones! This page takes a look at several of the problems that vitamin B6 can alleviate.


Foods That Contain Vitamin B6

All foods contain either pyridoxine, pyridoxamine, or pyridoxal in some amount. Meats, whole grains, beans, and some fruits tend to be plentiful in B6, but a large enough serving of vegetables can also provide a healthy dose. You’ll find information on how to get dietary B6, and a chart showing some of the most abundant sources, on this page.


Vitamin B6 Deficiency

Although vitamin B6 is plentiful in our foods, and although the recommended daily allowance isn’t very high, many people still do not get enough in their diets. On this page you’ll learn how much B6 you should get every day (it varies by age), and which medications might increase your need for B6.


Vitamin B6 Supplements

If you do choose to take vitamin B6 in pill form, despite our recommendations that you choose natural sources be careful of the dosage. You should stay between 50 and 100 micrograms a day; in doses over 200 micrograms, the vitamin can become toxic.

Pyridoxine toxicity

Pyridoxine (vitamin B6) supplements are sometimes given for the treatment or prevention of many health disorders. However, taking large doses of this vitamin without the supervision of a licensed healthcare practitioner is not advised because it can result in vitamin B6 toxicity. Please speak with a trusted healthcare practitioner if you are concerned about your vitamin B6 intake.