B6

Description
Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin. It is also known by the names pyridoxine, pyridoxamine, and pyridoxal. Vitamin B6 performs as a cofactor for about 70 different enzyme systems – most of which have something to do with amino acid and protein metabolism. Because vitamin B6 is also involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters in the brain and nerve cells, it is frequently recommended as a nutrient to support nerve conduction and mental function (mood), which in turn can promote sexual confidence. Some athletic supplements and products for increasing libido include vitamin B6 because of its role in conversion of glycogen to glucose for energy in muscle tissue. Food sources include poultry, fish, whole grains and bananas.

• Supports optimal nervous system function
• May improve emotional outlook/mood (serotonin synthesis)
• Needed for hemoglobin synthesis and red blood cell growth
• Immune support (white blood cell development)
• Arthritis relief

Theory
Vitamin B6, like most of the B-vitamins, is involved as a cofactor in a wide variety of enzyme systems. As such, "structure/function" claims can be made for virtually any health condition (including decreased libido). For example, because B6 is needed in the conversion of the amino acid tryptophan into niacin, a common B6 claim relates to "healthy cholesterol levels" (because niacin can help lower cholesterol in some people). Because B6 also plays a role in prostaglandin synthesis, claims are often made for the "benefits" of B6 in regulating blood pressure, muscle and heart function and pain levels (each of which is partially regulated by prostaglandins).

Scientific Support
Vitamin B6 supplements (in conjunction with folic acid) have been shown to have a significant effect in reducing plasma levels of homocysteine (an amino acid metabolite linked to increased risk of atherosclerosis). Scientific data show that homocysteine concentrations are reduced with low to medium divided doses of vitamin B6 (with or without folic acid). When combined with magnesium (300 mg/day as magnesium oxide), vitamin B6 (10 mg/day) appears to reduce oxalate excretion and decrease the occurrence of kidney stones.

Safety
As a water-soluble B vitamin, B6 is generally very safe as a dietary supplement. Excessive intakes (2-6 grams acutely or 500 mg chronically) are associated with sensory neuropathy (loss of feeling in the extremities) which may or may not be reversible. The RDA for vitamin B6 is only 2 milligrams per day, an amount contained in virtually all multi-vitamin supplements. Pregnant and lactating women should not take more than 100 mg of vitamin B6 per day.

Value
The daily value for vitamin B6 is 2mg, but it is rarely needed as an isolated supplement. Since B6 deficiency rarely occurs by itself, it makes sense to get your B6 as part of a more complete B-complex, multi-vitamin, or horny goat weed herb supplement.

Dosage
The Daily Value for B6 is 2mg.