| B vitamins are used in the body individually or in combination with enzymes to help release energy from carbohydrates, fat, and protein. Vitamin B coenzymes are crucial to the metabolic pathways that generate the energy needed by every cell in the body. Because they are co-dependent in their metabolic activities, a deficiency of one B vitamin can affect optimal functioning of organ systems throughout the body. Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is an important component of the coenzyme PLP, which metabolizes amino acids. Because of its amino acid transfer ability, the body can produce nonessential amino acids from available amino groups, as well as metabolize protein and urea. Without vitamin B6, our bodies would not be able to manufacture red and white blood cells, hormones, insulin, adrenaline, antibodies, neurotransmitters (such as serotonin that controls sleep patterns, appetite, and sensitivity to pain), and enzymes. Found in foods such as eggs, brewer’s yeast, carrots, chicken, fish, brown rice, whole grains, and cabbage, vitamin B6 deficiency will manifest itself in poor functioning of the central nervous system, anemia, and depression. In some individuals, the recommended dose of vitamin B6 is inadequate to to help maintain the proper levels of homocysteine.* Homocysteine when out of balance creates a negative cascade of events that involves the vascular system. For these individuals, larger quantities may be needed. Blood testing along with physician supervision is highly recommended before increasing dosages to avoid the possibility of serious side effects, such as peripheral nerve toxicity.
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| Some people have reported symptoms of peripheral neuropathy (tingling, numbness sensation, decreased sensation to touch or balance difficulties) when taking vitamin B6 in doses above 500 mg daily, especially if the nutrient is taken without other B-complex vitamins. This vitamin should not be taken without co-ingestion of equivalent doses of other B-complex vitamins. Consult your physician before taking this vitamin if you are taking levodopa (L-dopa). It is recommended that pyridoxine be taken with other members of the B complex family. |
