Vitamin B₆ - Pyridoxine


                Vitamin B₆, Pyridoxine, is a cofactor that helps activate over 100 different enzymes involved in hundreds of important biochemical tasks in the body. It is used to metabolize amino acids (protein management) as well as lipids (fats) and nucleic acids, and plays a role in the synthesis of DNA and RNA. As protein intake increases, so does the need for B₆. A deficiency of this vitamin can lead to weakness, depression, confusion, and skin conditions such as eczema.  Some drugs can deplete the body of pyridoxine.  These drugs include: antibiotics, birth-control pills, and smoking can also lead to a B₆ deficiency.  Vitamin B₆ has been shown to alleviate symptoms of PMS.  

               Vitamin B₆ has proven effective at reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease by lowering a toxic component of protein metabolism called homocysteine.  Homocysteine has been shown to be a causative factor in as much as 10% of heart attacks.  B₆ lowers levels of homocysteine along with B₁₂, trimethylglycine, and folic acid.

               Vitamin B₆ has also been highly beneficial in the natural treatment of carpal tunnel syndrome.  This painful condition occurs when swelling and inflammation cause compression of the main nerve in the wrist and is usually a result of repetative work such as carpentry, and typing.  Carpal tunnel syndrome is known to occur in pregnancy as a result of fluid retention.

               Vitamin B₆ is important for the production of energy and for proper nervous system function. Each tablet provides 50 mg of vitamin B₆ (pyridoxine hydrochloride), which is 2,500 percent of the Daily Value. It comes in a base of wheat germ flour and contains no animal byproducts (suitable for vegetarians).  Foods high in B₆ include: eggs, meats, walnuts, fish, peacans, whole grains, poultry, and bananas.