Pyridoxine is a water-soluble vitamin that belongs to the B group of vitamins. Also known as B6, good food sources of this nutrient include beans, green vegetables, grains and pork, reports the Colorado State University. It plays an important role in the metabolism and absorption of protein and helps the body use fats and form red blood cells. MayoClinic.com states that this vitamin also plays a role in the synthesis of the neurotransmitters, serotonin and norepinephrine and in the formation of the myelin sheath around nerves. Beside these functions, pyridoxine has many benefits.
Heart Disease
One of the many benefits of pyridoxine includes the prevention of heart disease, states Medline Plus. Homocysteine is a chemical that is supposed to increase the susceptibility of an individual to heart disease. Vitamin B6 reduces the level of homocysteine in the blood. It is also used for the treatment of high cholesterol and to keep clogged arteries open after angioplasty.
Menstruation and Pregnancy
Medline Plus reports that pyridoxine is effective for treating premenstrual syndrome and other problems related to the monthly periods of women. It also helps in nausea and vomiting, which is a characteristic of early pregnancy. Some women experience depression during pregnancy or while using birth control pills. Pyridoxine serves as treatment for these forms of depression, and relieves symptoms of menopause.
Other Benefits
Pyridoxine has been found to be effective for kidney stones when taken alone or in combination with magnesium. This is enumerated by Mayo Clinic, which further states that pyridoxine only appears to work for type I hyperoxaluria kidney stones and not for other types of stones. Pyridoxine serves as treatment for movement disorders in people taking medications for mental disorders. Children with low levels of the neurotransmitter, serotonin, exhibiting the characteristics of behavior disorders may also benefit from this vitamin. Pyridoxine seems to be effective for preventing an eye disease called macular degeneration, when taken in combination with folic acid and vitamin B12.
Member Comments