Vitamin B6 – Pyridoxine

Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin. B6 works in conjunction other B group vitamins, Vitamins A and C, magnesium, sodium, potassium, zinc and linoleic acid.

Functions
Vitamin B6:
Helps with processing and metabolism of protein
Is necessary for production of neurotransmitters
Is required for mental clarity
Prevents heart disease
Decreases PMS symptoms
Helps to relieve stress and tension
Contributes to healthy muscles and nerves

Sources of Vitamin B6:
Organ meat
Green veg
Whole grains
Legumes
Meat
Peas
Wheatgerm
Walnuts

Deficiency symptoms:
Anemia
Irritability
General weakness
Depression
Mental sluggishness
Oedema and PMS
Painful wrists

Pyridoxine is sensitive to sunlight, processing and cooking. Cortisone is known to impede pyridoxine absorption. People taking antidepressants, oral contraceptives or HRT may be low on B6, but always check with your doctor before taking supplements of any kind. An excess of any vitamin can have unpleasant side effects. The water soluble vitamins are readily excreted in urine, so toxicity is rare.