Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is very important for the life of our organism, especially for children on artificial feeding, pregnant women and people taking antibiotics for a long time.Pyridoxine - soluble in water, colorless crystals. Vitamin B6 is quite stable: resistant to heating, and oxygen effect, but is destroyed by light.
The daily intake of vitamin B6 for adults is 1.5 - 3 mg, for children aged up to one year - 0,3-0,6 mg for breastfeeding and pregnant women - 2-2,2 mg.
Vitamin B6 functions in the human body
- Vitamin B6 strengthens the immune system: improves quality and increases the number of defenders of the organism (antibodies). Also pyridoxine ensures the normal production of T-cells - an indicator of the functionality of the immune system.
- Pyridoxine supports the health of the cardiovascular system, prevents the formation of blood clots, reduces the likelihood of heart attack, stroke, and atherosclerosis. It is able to regulate blood pressure.
- Vitamin B6 actively involves in the amino acids exchange, protein and fat metabolism. Pyridoxine with folic acid can normalize cholesterol metabolism.
- Pyridoxine in conjunction with other substances involves in the process of hematosis.
- Pyridoxine regulates the activity of the nervous system, increases the efficiency of the brain, and improves memory.
- Vitamin B6 ensures the normal functioning of the liver.
Excess and deficiency of vitamin B6
An overdose of pyridoxine can cause allergic reactions and lead to problems with circulation of the blood.
Vitamin B6 deficiency is characterized by the following symptoms: dermatitis, memory and attention loss, headaches, anemia, loss of appetite. Long-term vitamin deficiency leads to violations of the central nervous system, accompanied by convulsions and other specific manifestations.
Sources of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)
Especially rich in pyridoxine: germinated seeds, nuts, spinach, potatoes, cabbage, carrots, beans, tomatoes, cherries, strawberries, lemons, oranges. Also, pyridoxine is present in meat and dairy products, liver, eggs, fish. In addition, vitamin B6 is capable to be synthesized by intestinal microflora.