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Vitamin B-6 has a wide variety of metabolic functions in the body, especially in amino
acid metabolism and in the central nervous system.
Vitamin B6 is a co-factor in over 100 enzymatic reactions in the body. These include
the formation and breakdown of amino acids, the conversion of amino acids to carbohydrate
or fat, and in fat metabolism. It is involved in the manufacture of most protein-related
compounds and plays a role in almost all bodily processes.
Central Nervous System
Adequate vitamin B6 is vital to the healthy development and function of the nervous
system. It is involved in the manufacture of several neurotransmitters, and plays an
important role in regulating mental processes and mood.
Immune System
Vitamin B6 plays a vital role in many different aspects of the immune system, including
the quality and quantity of antibodies and the number of infection-fighting white blood
cells.
Vitamin B-6 is also involved in the manufacture of hormones and red blood cells,
sodium-potassium balance, histamine metabolism, and the conversion of tryptophan to
niacin.
Cardiovascular System
Vitamin B6 has been observed to exert beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system
through several suggested mechanisms. The first is vitamin B-6's role in maintaining a
normal homocysteine level. Homocysteine is a byproduct of amino acid metabolism. Low
circulating levels of homocysteine are associated with heart and vascular health.
Vitamin B6 is essential for the manufacture of fat-derived substances known as
prostaglandins which are involved in processes such as blood pressure regulation, heart
function and platelet aggregation.
Skin and Hair
Vitamin B6 is important in maintaining healthy hair and skin.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Vitamin B6 is effective in relieving some of the symptoms of PMS, including depression,
breast tenderness and bloating.
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