What is vitamin B6 good for and which foods contain the vitamin?

What is vitamin B6?

Vitamin B6 is a common name for pyridoxine, pyridoxal and pyridoxamine, which is also often referred to as pyridoxine hydrochloride. They function as the body’s auxiliary enzymes for the construction and metabolism of proteins, fats and DNA. The vitamin is therefore of great importance for the body’s general growth and maintenance.

What is vitamin B6 good for?

• Immune system function: B6 helps form antibodies, red blood cells, T and B cells. The vitamin also helps strengthen and prevent shrinkage of the thymus gland, which is important for the immune system. 
• Protein metabolism: The metabolism is dependent on the presence of B6. 
• Magnesium: B6 activates magnesium, which is an important mineral that maintains the body’s nervous system, energy metabolism, bones, teeth and muscles. 
• Allergy: B6 is a natural antihistamine and is used for allergies, as it helps regulate the potassium/sodium balance and is thus diuretic and can be used for allergic fluid retention. 
• Blood: B6 is important for the formation of hemoglobin. The vitamin prevents blood clots by making the blood thinner, and prevents atherosclerosis and varicose veins by inhibiting the formation of plaque on the walls of the veins. 

How do I get vitamin B6? Which vegetables contain B6?

​​B6 is found in most foods. 

• Meat, especially lean, poultry, fish 
• Vegetables, such as garlic, potatoes, and peppers
• Whole grains in rice and bread
• Beans, especially soybeans 
• Fruit, such as banana

Meat and fish in particular are good sources of vitamin B6, as they contain 3-5 times more than many fruits and vegetables.

It should be noted that large amounts of vitamin B6 are destroyed by frying, boiling and exposure to light.

When is it best to take vitamin B6?

All B vitamins are water-soluble and act quickly, and they can also be excreted quickly if taken on an empty stomach, so it is recommended to take them with a meal. 

There are benefits to taking B6 both in the morning and evening. The vitamin helps maintain normal energy metabolism, so it may be beneficial to take it in the morning. However, the most nutritious meal is typically dinner. 

How does a deficiency of vitamin B6 manifest itself?

Symptoms of vitamin B6 deficiency may include: 

• Stomatitis
• Irritability 
• Depression
• Confusion 
• Anemia, microcytic anemia 
• Convulsions, as in epilepsy 
• Skin changes
• Indigestion

Vitamin B6 deficiency, which manifests itself through the above symptoms, is rare and can occur through abuse, impaired intestinal function, malnutrition and contamination with the pesticide Hydrazine. However, a minor deficiency of the vitamin can occur through a one-sided diet and heavy alcohol consumption, but will not show symptoms.

Osteopathy and indigestion

Osteopathy treats many patients every week who suffer from some form of digestive disorder. The osteopath manually treats the digestion but also acts as a specialist as a guide and advisor in relation to lifestyle and exercises.