B vitamins are used in the body individually or in combination withenzymes to help release energy from carbohydrates, fat, and protein.Vitamin B coenzymes are crucial to the metabolic pathways that generatethe energy needed by every cell in the body. Because they are co-dependentin their metabolic activities, a deficiency of one B vitamin can affectoptimal functioning of organ systems throughout the body.

Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is an important component of the coenzymePLP, which metabolizes amino acids. Because of its amino acid transferability, the body can produce nonessential amino acids from availableamino groups, as well as metabolize protein and urea. Without vitaminB6, our bodies would not be able to manufacture red and white bloodcells, hormones, insulin, adrenaline, antibodies, neurotransmitters(such as serotonin that controls sleep patterns, appetite, and sensitivityto pain), and enzymes.

Found in foods such as eggs, brewers yeast, carrots, chicken, fish,brown rice, whole grains, and cabbage, vitamin B6 deficiency will manifestitself in poor functioning of the central nervous system, anemia, anddepression.

In some individuals, the recommended dose of vitamin B6 is inadequateto to help maintain the proper levels of homocysteine.* Homocysteinewhen out of balance creates a negative cascade of events that involvesthe vascular system. For these individuals, larger quantities may beneeded. Blood testing along with physician supervision is highly recommendedbefore increasing dosages to avoid the possibility of serious side effects,such as peripheral nerve toxicity.

Some people have reported symptoms of peripheral neuropathy (tingling,numbness sensation, decreased sensation to touch or balance difficulties)when taking vitamin B6 in doses above 500 mg daily, especially if thenutrient is taken without other B-complex vitamins. This vitamin shouldnot be taken without co-ingestion of equivalent doses of other B-complexvitamins. Consult your physician before taking this vitamin if you aretaking levodopa (L-dopa). It is recommended that pyridoxine be takenwith other members of the B complex family.