Want To Promote A Healthy Brain? Don’t Skip Vitamin B6

1 min

Vitamin B6, also called pyridoxine, is a water-soluble nutrient that helps in the production of neurotransmitters, the chemicals that allow brain and nerve cells to communicate with one another. Pyridoxine also ensures that metabolic processes such as fat and protein metabolism run smoothly and is important for immune system function in older individuals.
It may also help address a number of conditions, including:

1. Nerve compression injuries (like carpal tunnel syndrome)
2. Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
3. Some cases of depression and arthritis

It is also part of a regimen used to treat high blood homocysteine levels along with folate (B9) and vitamin B12. Memory loss, diabetes, asthma attacks, high blood pressure, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), kidney stones, lung cancer, acne and atherosclerosis may also be alleviated with vitamin B6 supplementation as it can help in lowering an elevated homocysteine level; particularly in combination with B12 and folate.

Good food sources of vitamin B6 include brewer’s yeast, whole grains, legumes, vegetables (especially carrots, spinach and peas), potatoes, milk, cheese, eggs, fish and sunflower seeds.

Try these recipes that offer up B6:

• Pickled Carrots
• Potatoes with Kale

Dr. Weil recommends taking B6 as part of a complete daily B-complex supplement that contains a full spectrum of B vitamins, including thiamine, B12, folate, riboflavin and niacin. While B6 is a common nutrient that be depleted, either due to low dietary intake or caused by certain medications, there is also a downside to getting too much. It’s best to work on your ideal diet and supplement routine with one of our fellowship-trained integrative medicine providers.

Today’s Health Topics

Editor's Pick

• Are Resistance Bands Safer Than Free Weight Training?

Health Focus

• Is Sourdough Bread The Best Bread?

Ask Dr. Weil's Q&A

• A Better Kind of Sugar?

sponsor

The Weil Nutrition Corner™ New Year Fresh Start: Create an Anti-Inflammatory Kitchen Challenge begins January 12, 2026. The Weil Nutrition Corner™ New Year Fresh Start: Creating an Anti-Inflammatory Kitchen Challenge begins January 12, 2026. This guided, two-part experience helps you implement an anti-inflammatory kitchen, simplify food choices, and reconnect with the way you eat - without restriction or extremes. Rooted in Dr. Weil’s trusted Anti-Inflammatory Diet, the program offers practical kitchen guidance, with daily action steps, buy/replace and phase-out refresh lists, nourishing recipes, a meal plan, and digital guides. The second phase introduces reflective prompts and workbook-style exercises focused on building a healthier, more balanced relationship with food, supporting sustainable habits that extend well beyond January. Learn more and join us inside Weil Nutrition Corner™ for a healthy 2026!

Sign Up Today