Other Names

pyridoxal phosphate, pyridoxine, pyridoxine 5’-phosphate, pyridoxal, pyridoxal 5’-phosphate, pyridoxamine, pyridoxamine 5’-phosphate, 4-pyridoxic acid

Background

In its various forms, Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin that occurs naturally in a wide variety of foods.  It plays a role in over one hundred forty enzyme reactions related to the metabolism of amino acids, carbohydrates, neurotransmitters and lipids.  Its many functions are linked to numerous health benefits. In addition to its prominent presence in meats, starchy vegetables and non-citrus fruits, Vitamin B6 is also frequently offered in multivitamins or as an individual dietary supplement.  

Mode of Action

This vitamin’s mode of action as far as its nootropic qualities are concerned is a matter of some discussion.  Vitamin B6 is present in so many of the body’s physiologically significant functions that isolating a direct causal correlation between Vitamin B6 consumption and the treatment of a specific condition has proven difficult.   A common hypothesis is that Vitamin B6, often in conjunction with other B vitamins, can reduce cognitive impairment and brain atrophy by lowering the associated elevated homocysteine levels in the bloodstream.  Studies have demonstrated, however, that while the intake of B6 and other vitamins can reduce homocysteine levels and decelerate brain atrophy, it is not an effective method of preventing or curing cognitive impairment. 

Vitamin B6 – Benefits

Because of its involvement in so many enzyme reactions, benefits of healthy Vitamin B6 intake are often subtly visible across the spectrum of health-related concerns.  In addition to its uses for normalizing homocysteine levels to slow cognitive degeneration and prevent cardiovascular disease, it has been shown to help decrease risks of colorectal cancer in a study of postmenopausal women, maintain healthy blood sugar levels and treat pregnancy-related nausea.  There are numerous other benefits and applications for Vitamin B6, both for standard daily health and for the treatment of developed conditions.