Vitamin B6, found in many foods and vitamin supplements, performs very important functions in our nervous and immune systems. Vitamin B6 is only one of the 8 vitamins in the B vitamin family. A deficiency of vitamin B6, which is essential for vital functions, can result in symptoms such as fatigue, cracked tongue and skin, forgetfulness, and skin problems. Adequate and balanced intake of vitamin B6 is beneficial in the treatment of many problems, from insomnia to the prevention of muscle cramps and spasms, and is extremely important for our health.
Wondering what’s in vital vitamin B6?
Vitamin B6, a water-soluble vitamin, is a type of vitamin that acts as a coenzyme (an auxiliary factor in the chain of electron exchange between cells) in protein metabolism and also in the synthesis of neurotransmitters (chemicals that establish communication between neurons and cells). This vitamin is versatile and extremely important because it is effective in nearly 100 enzyme reactions. Different problems arise because vitamin B6, which is extremely important for the nervous system and physical health, is taken less than necessary.
Vitamin B6 obtained through foods and supplements is vitamin pB6, also known as pyridoxine, a vitamin that the body needs to perform many functions. This water-soluble vitamin is needed by the body for protein, fat, red blood cells and carbohydrate metabolism and the formation of neurotransmitters. Adequate intake of vitamin B6 is essential for health and plays an active role in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases.
Vitamin B6 affects brain functions and the production of neurons that supply the neural tube. Vitamin B6, which plays a role in glycogen and protein metabolism, is also important for the synthesis of some proteins necessary for the immune system to perform its function. Vitamin B6 has various functions for the production of red blood cells and the synthesis of the digestive system.
If the body lacks B6…
Taking vitamin B6 in the diet or as a supplement has many health benefits. Among the health benefits of vitamin B6, which have been confirmed by experts, it is at the top of the list that it improves brain health and helps protect against brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Vitamin B6 also contributes to the production of hemoglobin, preventing and treating anemia. It helps to treat nausea during pregnancy. It is effective in protecting eye health. It also has vascular health benefits and protects against cardiovascular disease. It helps to reduce menstrual syndrome (PMS) that can occur during menstruation in women. It accelerates the healing of inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. It contributes positively to mood and prevents depression.
Not getting enough vitamin B6 from the foods we use, unbalanced and irregular nutrition, causes vitamin B6 deficiency in the body. On the other hand, due to various diseases, absorption of nutrients is not ensured, and vitamin deficiency may occur again. In general terms, these symptoms include a tired, sluggish and depleted body, anemia due to a decrease in red blood cells, skin rashes, cracked lips, dryness and crusting around the mouth and lips, numbness in the hands, fingers and feet, persistent moodiness in infants. -symptoms include mood and anxiety, increased risk of infectious diseases due to a weakened immune system, unusual increase in morning sickness during pregnancy, forgetfulness, inability to concentrate.
Vitamin B6 is a type of vitamin found in many food groups. People who do not have any health problems and have a healthy and adequate diet can fully meet the need for vitamin B6. To meet vitamin B6, it is necessary to pay attention to the consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, meat and milk.
How to take vitamin B6?
Both foods and supplements containing B vitamins are sufficient to correct a vitamin B6 deficiency, but it is extremely important that you take a vitamin B6 supplement only after your doctor recommends it. Foods rich in vitamin B6 are beef, chicken liver, salmon, fish such as tuna, milk and dairy products, dry legumes, especially peas. Vitamin B6 is also abundant in fruits such as avocados and bananas, nuts, eggs, peas, spinach, cauliflower, sweet potatoes, carrots, whole grains, and fortified cereals.
Lala Mehrali
The article was prepared within the framework of “Physical and spiritual development of children and youth” with the financial support of the Media Development Agency of the Republic of Azerbaijan.