Vitamin B6 or pyridoxine was isolated by three independent research groups in 1938, and synthesized the next year. It is soluble in alcohol and water, and stable in alkaline and acidic solutions. However, it is destroyed by food processing techniques, canning, prolonged storage, stewing or roasting of meat, use of oestrogen and alcohol and exposure to sunlight. Tuberculosis leads to pyridoxine deficiency. This vitamin is distributed in various tissues and small amounts are stored in the body.
Functions of Pyridoxine
Vitamin B6 performs a number of vital functions. It is responsible for fat (especially fatty acids), carbohydrate and protein metabolism. It helps to synthesize fats from carbohydrates and proteins, and transport proteins and metallic ions across cell membranes. Moreover, it boosts the production of magnesium and hydrochloric acid, activates enzymes and enzyme systems and thus enables assimilation of food. Next, it maintains the balance between sodium and potassium which is essential for bodily functions.
Vitamin B6 boosts the production of antibodies which provide immunity against bacterial infections. It prevents conditions like certain cardiac problems, high cholesterol, diabetes, skin and nervous disorders and tooth decay. It keeps the nervous system and brain healthy, and is required for normal pregnancy and the reproductive system. Finally, vitamin B6 is essential for the absorption of vitamin B12.
Sources of Vitamin B6
Raw foods are richer in the vitamin than cooked foods. Good sources are sunflower seeds, walnuts, yeast, wheat germ, pulses and lentils like soya beans, lima beans and lentils. Vegetable sources include spinach and potatoes, while fruits like bananas and avocado contain pyridoxine.
Results of Deficiency of Vitamin B6
Lack of pyridoxine is manifested in a number of conditions like anemia, skin problems like eczema, oedema, insomnia, tooth decay, migraine headaches, lack of muscular control and age related symptoms. Tingling of the hands and nerve impairment results from pyridoxine deficiency. There can also be damage to the pancreas and inflammation of the colon. Moreover, there is irritability, mental depression, convulsions and even premature senility.
Studies have shown that deficiency of vitamin B6 leads to hardening of blood vessels, and harms the inner walls of the coronaries.
Therapeutic Uses of Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is beneficial in treating conditions like haemorrhoids, diabetes and convulsions. Since pyridoxine has a calming and sedative action on the nerves, it is prescribed for mental stress, irritability, depression, insomnia, general weakness, travel sickness and morning sickness.
The level of vitamin B6 in the blood decreases with age, so the diet has to be balanced to ensure adequate intake. Pulses, fruits and vegetables and some other items provide vitamin B6. Deficiency causes physical and mental symptoms like skin and nerve problems. Pregnant women, heart patients and the elderly require higher amounts of the vitamin. Though there is low toxicity of vitamin B6, its use should be monitored if heavy doses have to be taken.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only; it should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his/her health should contact a licensed medical professional.
Sources:
- Goyal, G.C, Vitamins for Natural Healing, Diamond books, 2005
- Bakhru, Dr.H.K, Vitamins that Heal, Orient paperbacks, 1998
- Vitamins-supplements.org, Vitamins & Health Supplements Guide--vitamin B6, (accessed April 15, 2011).
- Umm.edu, vitamin B6, (accessed April 15, 2011).
- Ods.od.nih.gov, vitamin B6, (accessed April 15, 2011).
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