Why Is Vitamin B6 So Important?

Vitamin B6 is the hardest working nutrient in the human body, but it is the most common vitamin deficiency in the human diet. It is estimated that one third of all adults have Vitamin B6 deficiency, with more women than men suffering from the deficiency.

How Does Vitamin B6 Work?

Pyridoxine - Vitamin B6 - is an essential nutrient required for life. It functions primarily as a "coenzyme," which is to act as a catalyst for other enzymes that need proper assistance to complete their job. Neurotransmitters, proteins, and red blood cells all require Vitamin B6 in order to be formed; and it is also required for the metabolism of foods into energy. Research is showing the Vitamin B6 may play a crucial role in disease prevention and treatment.

Along with Folic Acid and Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6 has been shown to help the body reduce homocysteine, an amino acid-like compound that is being studied for its relationship to an increase in heart disease.

Vitamin B6 also plays many other important roles in the body . . .

Supplementation with Vitamin B6 has been found to decrease PMS symptoms and can provide relief for pregnant women who suffer from morning sickness. Other studies show that this nutrient may be helpful in treating epilepsy and depression because it helps the body produce neurotransmitters, such as serotonin, which may be lacking in these patients. Vitamin B6 also plays a role in helping maintain the health of nerves, which is very valuable to those with diabetes, because they are at an increased risk of developing diabetes-induced nerve disease. In extreme cases, it may lead to amputation of the lower extremities. Maintaining nerve health is also valuable to those suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, inflammation of the nerves in the wrist. Also, Vitamin B6 has also been shown to alleviate asthma symptoms and reduce the frequency and intensity of asthma attacks.

Robert Nelson is a Nutrition Staff Writer at Super Vitamin Power.com, where all kinds of Vitamins & Herbs are offered. Please visit: http://www.supervitaminpower.com

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