Pyridoxine

Chemical Name:Vitamin B6

Description:Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that is sensitive to light and alkyli. This vitamin plays a major role in the biological pathway called glycolysis. Pyridoxine is essential for RNA and DNA synthesis and is responsible for proper functioning of over 60 enzymes. The production of red blood cells and immune system cells is dependent upon this vitamin. The regulation of fluids by sodium and potassium is maintained by vitamin B6. This vitamin also acts like a coenzyme in the utilization and breakdown of fats, carbohydrates and proteins.

Absorption/Storage:Pyridoxine is absorbed through the intestine and is exclusively found in the muscles. Since it is water-soluble it is excreted through the urine. Due to this, vitamin B6 must be replenished every 5-6 hours.

Dosage/Toxicity:The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) recommends vitamin B6 in the following amounts: newborns-6 months 0.3mg, 6 months-1 year 0.6mg, children 1-3 years 1.0mg, children 4-6 years 1.1mg, children 7-10 years 1.4mg, males 11-14 years 1.7mg, males 15 and older 2.0mg, females 11-14 years 1.4mg, females 15-18 years 1.5mg, females 19 and older 1.6mg, lactating women 2.1mg. Before taking more than 10 times the RDA, you should consult with a physician. When consumed alone, this vitamin may cause imbalance and/or depletion of the other B vitamins. Neurological complications be experienced when administered in large quantities. Feet numbness is a sign of a toxicity.

Deficiency:People may become sensitive to insulin when deficient in vitamin B6, causing a decrease in the blood sugar tolerance. Hair loss, slow learning, neuritis, arthritis, and an increase in urination are all problems caused by the deficiency of pyridoxine.

Common UseSkin disorders such as acne and dry, itchy skin may be relieved when consuming vitamin B6. The anemia caused from the red blood cells being too small may be treated with this vitamin. Pregnant women may find some relief from nausea and vomiting. Other benefits of using pyridoxine include treating eczema, loss or thinning of hair, ulcers, tooth decay, diarrhea, and pancreatits.

Food Sources:Whole grains, meat, liver, and brewer's yeast

Precautions:Those suffering from Parkinson's disease that are taking levodopa should not take this vitamin. Consult a physician if pregnant, symptoms of nausea, diarrhea, or dizziness last more than a week, or if new symptoms appear.

Scientific References: Groff, J., Gropper, S., and Hunt, S. (1995). Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism. St. Paul Minnesota: West Publishing Company. Gropper and Hamilton. (1987). The Biochemistry of Human Nutrition. St. Paul, Minnesota: West Publishing Company. Kirschmann, G. and Kirschmann, J. (1996). Nutrition Almanac. New York, New York: McGraw Hill. Murray, M., (1996) Encyclopedia of Nutritional Supplements. Unites States of America: Prima Publishing. Murray, M. and Pizzorno, J., (1998) Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine. United States of America: Prima Publishing. National Research Council. (1989). Recommended Dietary Allowance. Washington D.C.: National Academy Press. Null, G., (1998) The Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing. New York, New York: Kensington Publishing Corp.