Vitamin B6(Pyridoxine): Functions, Deficiency And Food Sources

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin. It is also known as pyridoxine. In this post , we will examine Vitamin B6 , its functions, deficiency, toxicity and food sources.

Functions Of Vitamin B6

  • Conversion of nutrients into glucose-Vitamin B6 is important in the production of energy as it aids in the breakdown of nutrients such as carbohydrates to release energy.
  • Involved in the synthesis of hormones –Vitamin B6 is important for your immune system as it is involved in the production of cells and hormones that protect the body e.g red blood cells.
  • Maintains a balance in homocysteine levels -It maintains levels of  homocysteine (an amino acid significant in protein metabolism and in indicating inflammation).
  • Maintains the proper functioning of the nervous system and brain-You need vitamin B6 for the formation of neurotransmitters, which transmit signals between the nerve cells.

Sources Of Vitamin B6

  • Organ meats -beef liver, chicken liver
  • Pork
  • Poultry
  • Veal
  • Fish -sardines, halibut, tuna, salmon, herring
  • Whole grain cereals -maize, sorghum.
  • Nuts -peanuts, walnuts

In essence, fruits and vegetables are relatively poor sources of vitamin B6.

Population Groups At Risk Of Vitamin B6 Deficiency

  • Pregnant and lactating women –Since they have increased demands, failure to increase their Vitamin B6 requirements makes them more predisposed to its deficiency.
  • Women taking oral contraceptives-Certain oral contraceptives decrease the levels of pyridoxal phosphate(the functional form of vitamin B6 which supports various Vitamin B6 roles).
  • Chronic alcoholics-Chronic alcoholics are unlikely to meet their Vitamin B6 dietary requirements. Also, because alcohol displaces nutrients and interferes with the body’s capacity to utilize nutrients, chronic alcoholics are at high risk of deficiency.
  • The elderly – They are at increased risk of Vitamin B6 deficiency due to low food intake.
  • Individuals with severe malnutrition-Severe malnutrition implies a deficiency of most nutrients including vitamin B6.
  • Individuals with certain conditions –Certain conditions including liver disease,  kidney disease, rheumatoid arthritis and genetic disorders, enhance the risk of Vitamin B6 deficiency. Conditions such as  HIV can lead to the malabsorption of the vitamin.

Signs And Symptoms Of Vitamin B6 Deficiency

  • Fatigue
  • Nervous system disorders (irritability, confusion and depression)
  • Impairment of the immune system
  • Convulsions
  • Numbness
  • Headache
  • Inflammation of skin and mucosa
  • Muscle twitching
  • Difficulty walking

Rarely does vitamin B6 deficiency occur alone. It mainly occurs alongside the deficiency of other B-complex vitamins (in particular with vitamin B2).

Vitamin B6 Toxicity

Toxicity mainly occurs from supplements. Daily doses of 500 milligrams and more over extended periods can inflict damage to the sensory nerves.

Drug Interactions Of Vitamin B6

  • Isoniazid (for the treatment of tuberculosis) –Interferes with Vitamin B6 levels and can lead to its deficiency.

Other medications that can lead to vitamin B6 deficiency-

  • Hydralazine (Apresoline)-For managing high blood pressure.
  • Cycloserine-Utilized in the treatment of tuberculosis.
  • Theophylline (TheoDur) -For the treatment of asthma.

Nutrient Interactions With Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 enhances the rate of absorption of  magnesium into your cells.

RDA

  • Males 19-50 years-1.3 milligrams
  • Females 19-50 years -1.3 milligrams
  • Males ≥ 50 years -1.7 milligrams
  • Females≥ 50 years -1.5 milligrams

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