What are the Benefits of Vitamin B6?

Vitamin B6 is an essential nutrient in the body that assists in metabolism, as well as more than 100 other enzymatic processes, and provides many additional benefits to the body. It is found naturally in many foods, including vegetables, soybeans, nuts, potatoes, chicken, bananas, and fish, among others, and is actually made up of a combination of three different nutrients: pyridoxine, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine. Despite the fact that it is found in a number of different foods, adults are frequently deficient in the water-soluble vitamin, meaning they are not receiving the additional benefits of vitamin B6.

For this reason, vitamin B6 is found in most multivitamins; the amount included is usually under 2 mg, which is the recommended minimum daily amount. Adults may also choose to take a supplement for the additional benefits of vitamin B6, and these supplements are generally available in 25, 50, or 100 mg increments. It is important to always follow the instructions on bottles of supplements, and to take them as directed; remember to keep them out of reach of children.

One of the main benefits of vitamin B6 is its metabolism-boosting properties. In addition, vitamin B6 is often used as a treatment for a number of conditions including autism, asthma, arthritis, schizophrenia, attention deficit disorder, and clinical depression, among others. It has been shown to improve brain function and may even prevent Alzheimer's or Parkinson's disease. It may also be able to lower blood pressure and prevent heart disease by reducing homocysteine levels.

Treatment of PMS is another one of the main benefits of vitamin B6. The vitamin is able to prevent water retention, as well as yeast infections. Some women also take a vitamin B6 supplement in order to help prevent morning sickness due to pregnancy. The vitamin may even be able to help prevent and stop hair loss. Finally, strengthening the immune system is just one more of the many benefits of vitamin B6. Ask a doctor if unsure whether an additional vitamin B6 supplement can be beneficial for one's individual needs.

Vitamin B6 supplements may be found in most grocery stores, health food stores, or ordered online. They are typically very inexpensive, and are generally intended to be taken every day for the maximum benefits. Another option is to take a B-complex supplement, which contains vitamin B6 in addition to vitamin B12 and other nutritional supplements, combined for the most effective absorption and positive effects on the body.