Vitamins are vital for the human body to function properly and play an important role in many bodily processes. They act as mediators for cell regulation, tissue growth, differentiation and as antioxidants. They function as catalysts and aid in the body's metabolic actions. Each vitamin has its purpose within the body. Two essential vitamins are pyridoxine, or vitamin B6, and cobalamin, or vitamin B12.
Vitamin B6 Function
According to the Nutritional Health Information Center, vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that cannot be stored in the body and is excreted through urine. Therefore, vitamin B6 must be replenished regularly through diet. It is important for the development and maintenance of a healthy immune system and plays a crucial role in the manufacture of proteins, neurotransmitters, hemoglobin and prostaglandins within the body. Vitamin B6 is also involved in hormone balance and fertility. It is essential for protein and fat metabolism, proper cell division and multiplication, and many other processes in the body.
Vitamin B12 Function
The Vegetarian Society says B12 is also a water-soluble vitamin, but it is unique in that it can be stored in the body for several years in the liver. Vitamin B12's primary function is the formation of red blood cells and the maintenance of the central nervous system. It is necessary for synthesis of DNA, healthy growth and development, and the metabolism of carbohydrates, fats and protein. Vitamin B12 also protects the body against toxins, allergens and infections.
Vitamin B6 Food Sources
The Office of Dietary Supplements reports that vitamin B6 is found in a broad array of foods, including beans, fortified cereals, fish, poultry, meat, and even some fruit and vegetables. The maximum milligrams per serving are found in cereals, potatoes, bananas, garbanzo beans, chicken, pork, trout, sunflower seeds and oatmeal. Vitamin B6 can be found in a number of foods. In addition, the recommended dietary allowance for Vitamin B6 is relatively low; therefore, a pyridoxine deficiency is considered rare.
Vitamin B12 Food Sources
The Office of Dietary Supplements emphasizes that vitamin B12 is naturally abundant in animal products, including meat, poultry, eggs and milk. It can also be found in fortified cereals. Calf's liver and snapper are excellent sources of vitamin B12. These are followed by sardines, venison, salmon, beef, scallops, breakfast cereals, yogurt, cheese, tuna and milk. While vitamin B12 cannot be found in fruit and vegetables, grain products--including pasta, breakfast cereals and bread--are continually being B12-fortified.
Factors Affecting Function
According to the World's Healthiest Foods website, factors other than dietary insufficiency may contribute to a vitamin B6 or B12 deficiency. Smoking and the use of prescription medications can deplete the body's supply of vitamin B6. Vitamin B12 can be affected by stomach irritation or inflammation that prevents proper cell functions. This causes the stomach to stop secreting acids, so it cannot absorb vitamin B12. In addition, vegetarians who do not consume animal products may suffer from a vitamin B12 deficiency. In these cases, a health care practitioner may recommend a vitamin B complex supplement to replace losses.
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