Want To Promote A Healthy Brain? Don’t Skip B6
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:
- Nerve compression injuries (like carpal tunnel syndrome)
- Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
- Some cases of depression and arthritis
B6 is also part of a regimen used to treat high homocysteine levels along with folic acid and vitamin B12. Memory loss, diabetes, asthma attacks, attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), kidney stones, lung cancer, acne and atherosclerosis may also be alleviated with vitamin B6 supplementation usually paired with the other B vitamins, as they lower one’s homocysteine level, which can be measured as part of a routine blood test.
Good food sources of vitamin B6 include brewer’s yeast, whole grains, legumes, vegetables (especially carrots, spinach and peas), potatoes, whole milk, cheese, eggs, fish and sunflower seeds. 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.
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