PYRIDOXINE - B6

Pyridoxine- B6 deficiency is rare. However medications such as INH for tuberculosis interfere with metabolism and performance and results in peripheral neuropathy. Oral contraceptives cause increased urinary excretion of B6 metabolites and accompanying states of malaise, depression and glucose intolerance. Extreme deficiency results in convulsions and irreversible mental retardation in the neonatal period.

Pyridoxine has a vital role in protein metabolism. It is involved in the formation of hemoglobin and it is needed to convert the amino acid tryptophan to the vitamin niacin. High levels of B6 are maintained in the brain, where it functions to help protect nerve cells. B6 is essential for the formation and function of neurotransmitters. Certain brain abnormalities such as dementia may be the result of inadequate cerebral uptake of certain vitamins, particularly B6.

Vitamin B6 has been reported to help women suffering from premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It seems to act as a diuretic and relieve the symptoms of depression, tiredness, painful and swollen breasts and bloated abdomen. Because of its role in the nervous system has been used successfully to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. Vitamin B6 along with folic acid also protects against heart attacks by lowering homocysteine levels

Food sources of B6-eggs, fish, spinach, carrots, peas, meat, chicken. Fish (esp. herring and salmon), brewer's yeast, walnuts, sunflower seeds and wheat germ. Brown rice and other whole grains are medium sources. Heat, oxygen and light affect the B6 in foods. Up to 70% of the B-6 in foods may be lost during cooking, processing and refining. It appears safe at dosages up to 300mg. When taking 200 mgs daily, a dependency can occur, this results in a deficiency when stopped abruptly

High dose vitamin B6 can be toxic and result in ataxia and severe sensory neuropathy.

Donna Tinnerello, MS, RD, CD/N.

Donna Tinnerello MS, RD,, CD/N is registered dietician with more than 10 years experience in HIV and nutrition. She works at Cabrini Medical Center in lower Manhattan,in private practice and the community.Her subspecialties are cardiovascular, renal, and gastrointestinal disease, diabetes and weight loss. Donna is available for private consultation by referral only.