Are You Getting Enough Vitamin B6?

Vitamin B6, also called pyridoxine, is a water-soluble nutrient that helps in the production of neurotransmitters, the chemicals that allow brain and nerve cells to communicate with one another. Pyridoxine also ensures that metabolic processes such as fat and protein metabolism run smoothly, and is important for immune system function in older individuals. It can also help address a number of conditions, including nerve compression injuries (like carpal tunnel syndrome), premenstrual syndrome (PMS), and some cases of depression and arthritis. It is often used to treat high homocysteine levels along with folic acid and vitamin B12. Memory loss, diabetes, asthma attacks, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), kidney stones, lung cancer, acne and atherosclerosis may also be treated and alleviated via vitamin B6 supplementation.
Good food sources of vitamin B6 include brewer's yeast, cereal grains, legumes, vegetables (especially carrots, spinach and peas), potatoes, milk, cheese, eggs, fish and sunflower seeds. Dr. Weil recommends 50 mg as part of a daily B-complex supplement that contains a full spectrum of B vitamins, including thiamine, B12, riboflavin and niacin.