Vitamin B6         

Essential for

the release of energy from food
healthy cardiovascular, nervous and immune systems
protein metabolism and hormone production
healthy skin, hair and red blood cells
manufacture of the genetic material of the cell
the conversion of tryptophan to niacin

Absorption and metabolism

Daily intake is necessary.

Deficiency

Symptoms include weakness, poor appetite, dermatitis, a sore mouth, susceptibility to infection, and eventually, convulsions and anemia. Deficiency may play a role in heart disease, kidney stone formation, carpal tunnel syndrome and depression.

Sources

These include meat, fish, eggs, milk and whole grains.

Daily recommended dietary intakes

Men                        1.3 mg

Men (over 50)         1.7 mg

Women                   1.3 mg

Women (over 50)   1.5 mg

Pregnancy             1.9 mg

Lactation                2.0 mg

Toxic effects of excess intake

High doses for long periods may cause nerve damage.

Interactions

Alcohol, smoking, estrogen, some antibiotics and antidepressants may increase requirements.

Therapeutic uses of supplements

These include asthma, cardiovascular disease, mood disorders, PMS, stress, carpal tunnel syndrome, fatigue, nausea of pregnancy, skin problems and kidney stones.

Cautions

Those taking the anti-Parkinsonian drug, levodopa, or anticonvulsant drugs should consult a doctor before taking supplements.

Vitamin B6 Categories:

Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 health
Vitamin B6 absorption
Vitamin B6 deficiency
Vitamin B6 sources
Vitamin B6 recommended daily
Vitamin B6 overdose
Vitamin B6 supplements
Vitamin B6 interactions
Vitamin B6 dangerous

Other Vitamins:

Vitamin A
Carotenes
Beta carotene
Lycopene
Lutein
Thiamin
Riboflavin
Niacin
Vitamin B6
Folate
Vitamin B12
Biotin
Pantothenic acid
Vitamin C
Vitamin D
Vitamin E
Vitamin K