Pyridoxine, commonly known as vitamin B-6, is part of the B-complex family of vitamins. B-complex vitamins help your body metabolize and use carbohydrates, fats and proteins derived from food sources. This family of vitamins also supports proper nervous system function. Vitamin B-6 has specific characteristics and risks.
Sources
Pyridoxine is available as a standalone supplement and is a component of B-complex vitamin supplements. It is also available in several food sources. The richest sources of pyridoxine include carrots, walnuts, flaxseeds, spinach, poultry, wheat germ and sunflower seeds, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Avocados, brown rice, bananas, lentils, whole-grain breads, corn and potatoes also contain this vitamin.
Recommended Daily Intake
Recommended daily allowances of pyridoxine for children vary according to age; the recommended intake for newborns is 0.1 mg per day, compared to 1.3 mg for adolescent males and 1.2 mg for adolescent females. The recommended daily intake for adults up to 50 is 1.3 mg. The daily recommended dose for seniors is slightly higher -- 1.7 mg for males and 1.5 mg for females. Consult with your health care provider before supplementing with pyridoxine.
Benefits
Pyridoxine may relieve depression by stimulating the production of serotonin and norepinephrine, which are neurotransmitter chemicals that elevate mood. However, current research has not conclusively linked pyridoxine to depression relief. It may stimulate melatonin, a substance that regulates your sleep cycle. This vitamin also works in conjunction with folic acid and cobalamin to control homocysteine levels in your bloodstream. Homocysteine is a substance linked to heart disease.
Risks
Rheumatoid arthritis is linked to depletion of pyridoxine in your body; this condition may increase your risk for vitamin B-6 deficiency. Chemotherapy drugs may also contribute to pyridoxine deficiency. Doses of more than 200 mg per day may contribute to neurological problems, loss of balance and numbness in your extremities. Pyridoxine may inhibit the effectiveness of tetracycline, a prescription antibiotic. It may also interfere with the action of levodopa, a prescription drug for Parkinson's disease.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
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