VITAMIN B-6
PYRIDOXINE
 
  • Dosing
    		•
  • Therapeutic Uses
    		•
  • Sources
    		•
  • High-Risk Groups
    		•
  • Deficiency Consequences
    		•
  • Toxicity/Side Effects
    		•
  • Contraindications
    		•
  • Additional Information
    		•
  • Drug Interactions
    		•
     

     
    United States Recommended Dietary Allowances
    Men - 1.7 - 2 mg/day, Women - 1.4 - 1.6 mg/day, Pregnant women - 2.2 mg/day
    Nursing mothers - 2.1 mg/day, Children - 1 - 1.4 mg/day, Infants - 0.3 - 0.6 mg/day
     


     
     
     
     
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    Therapeutic Uses
    Pyridoxine is necessary for normal protein, carbohydrate, fat metabolism and nervous system functioning. It is necessary for the proper functioning of over 60 enzymes. It aids in the synthesis and degradation of carbohydrates, fats and protein; conversion of tryptophan to niacin; development of hemoglobin and red blood cells; conversion of linoleic acid to arachidonic acid; cholesterol metabolism; conversion of glycogen to glucose; steroid metabolism and encocrine-related diseases; synthesis of many neurotransmitters, including dopamine, gamma amino butyric acid (GABA), histamine, norepinephrine, and serotonin.
     
     
     
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    Sources
    Bananas, brown rice, meats, poultry, fish, sunflower seeds, lugumes, potatoes, tomatoes, corn, milk, dark green vegetables, eggs, raisins, whole grain breads and cereals, cottage cheese, avocados, cabbage, cauliflower, soybeans, peanuts.

     
     
     
     
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    High-Risk Groups
    Pregnancy. Early infancy. Elderly. Individuals on oral contraceptives, estrogens, amphetamines, chlorpromazine and reserpine. Alcohol abusers. High protein diet.
    High stress. People exposed to radiation. People with heart disease.


     
     
     
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    Deficiency Consequences
    Depression as a result of making less serotonin. Increased risk for kidney stones from increased oxalic acid production. Increased homocystine production from not breaking down amino acids. Decreased tolerance to monosodium glutamate. Possibly impaired ability to regulate blood sugar. Peripheral nerve dysfunction. Immune system depression. Convulsions. Lethargy. Anemia. Irritability. Confusion.
     
     
     
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    Toxicity/Side Effects
    Neurological disturbances such as ataxia, sensory neuropathy, unstable gait, numbness in feet, awkwardness of hands, numbness around the mouth and other paresthesia, drowsiness, decreased sensation to touch, temperature and vibration.



     
     
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    Contraindications
    None indicated.
     
     
     
     
     
     
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    Additional Information/Precautions
    B-6 is a water soluble vitamin and well absorbed from the upper portion of the small intestine. An acid enviroment increases its absorption. Symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menstrual tension including acne, depression, breast pain and bloating may benefit from B-6 supplementation 7 to 10 days prior to each menstrual period. B-6 has been associated with reducing gallstones by allowing cholesterol to stay in bile solution. In combination with magnesium, B-6 may help autistic children. It can also help/cure individuals with carpal tunnel syndrome. It is suggested that all B-vitamins be consumed in a ratio to one another or consumed simultaneously, although never proven. It would be prudent to take smaller amounts of B-complex whenever using a large dose of any B-vitamin.


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    Drug Interactions
    B-6 decreases levodopa's (Larodopa, Dopar) effectiveness (used to treat Parkinson's Disease) by increasing its metabolism. Phenobarbital and phenytoin (Dilantin) serum levels may be decreased.

     
     
     
     
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    References
    1. Chiropractic Nutritional Reference 1987 Edition, James M. Gerber, DC
    2. Facts and Comparisons Drug Information, Updated Monthly, Loose-leaf drug information service
    3. Understanding Vitamins and Minerals, by the editors of Prevention Magazine, 1984