Vitamin B6 and its Benefits

Vitamin B6, which is also called as pyridoxamine, pyridoxine, or pyridoxal, is one of the most prominent essential vitamins required for functioning of numerous enzymes in our bodies. This vitamin is vital for protein, fat and carbohydrate metabolism. As a co-enzyme, vitamin B6 works along with other enzymes to regulate all sorts of processes in our body. But ironically, many people fall short of meeting the daily requirements of this essential vitamin. As a result, they suffer from many vitamin B6 deficiency problems. Fatigue, moodiness, irritability, loss of appetite, hair loss, dry skin especially on the lips and tongue are some of the symptoms of vitamin B6 deficiency. 

As per a latest research, vitamin B6 helps in relieving edema and water retention problem, rheumatism, peripheral neuropathy, autism, learning and developmental disorders, magnesium deficiency, tendonitis, cardiovascular occlusions and myocardial infarcts. Studies have also shown that people diagnosed with arthritis, epilepsy, acne, and sebhorheic dermatitis problems often have significant shortage of vitamin B6 in their bodies. Especially among women, this vitamin required to balance the hormonal changes, shortage of which often leads to irregular menstrual periods, headaches, irritability and mood swing problems. 

This health-affirming vitamin is available abundant in seeds, beans, bran and beef, egg, fish, and bananas. However, the intake of vitamin B6 supplements offer maximum benefits. Doctors recommend a daily intake of 1.6 milligrams of B6 for women and 2 milligrams for men. Remember, although there are potential benefits of taking vitamin B6 supplements, but a strong overdose of over 250 milligrams might cause nerve damage. Nutrition experts suggest a combine intake of other vitamin B and magnesium supplements along with vitamin B6 to avoid vitamin B6 overdose.