What Is Vitamin B6? What Does It Do?

What is Vitamin B6? What Does It Do? Pyridoxine, commonly referred to as a B-group vitamin, is also known as B6 vitamin, yet it remains insufficiently known by the public. B6 vitamin, which the human body cannot produce, plays an important role in more than 100 enzyme reactions. For the body to perform its daily functions properly, it needs to meet its requirements through healthy and balanced nutrition. In cases where problems occur, support is obtained from vitamin and mineral supplements. Nowadays, some vitamin supplements receive more attention than others. Drawing attention to B6 vitamin, which is not sufficiently known in society and cannot be produced by the human body, the Sabri Ülker Foundation made the following statements regarding B6 vitamin supplementation, which plays an important role in more than 100 enzyme reactions:

What does B6 vitamin do in the body?

B6 vitamin helps our body break down proteins, carbohydrates and fats that build muscle, provide energy and perform numerous essential functions. It strengthens the immune system and plays a role in the formation of important neurotransmitters including serotonin and dopamine. It also plays a role in hemoglobin production, the protein responsible for carrying oxygen in red blood cells.

Mortality rates higher in people with insufficient B6 levels

According to a recent study, mortality rates may be slightly higher in individuals with insufficient or deficient B6 levels. Experts on this subject note that the increase in mortality rates can generally be seen in individuals who have a diet with a low dietary quality index, and therefore it is difficult to hold B6 vitamin deficiency alone responsible for the rising mortality rates.

Recommendations for getting adequate B6 vitamin

Fish, dairy products and poultry are among the richest sources of B6, but this vitamin is also found in legumes, nuts and many fruits and vegetables. Experts note that individuals who follow a diet pattern containing fresh foods and unprocessed foods will obtain adequate amounts of B6 vitamin through diet. However, with increasingly rising numbers, some people are beginning to reduce their consumption of meat, dairy and fish for health or environmental reasons. Experts point out that when lost calories are not replaced with healthy, plant-based proteins such as legumes and nuts, the risk of B6 vitamin deficiency increases significantly. That said, a standard multivitamin supplement can provide adequate amounts of B6 vitamin and other B-group vitamins. However, be careful not to use multivitamins without your doctor's recommendation.