Vitamins > Vitamin B >

aka Vitamin B6, commonly in supplements as pyridoxal-5-phosphate

Things ∞

• Helps with the transport and metabolism of amino acids.
• Intimately involved with the processes of B12 and Folic Acid.
• Increased protein intake should be supplemented by B6
• B6 is sufficiently rare that supplements are recommended.
• eggs, red meat, bananas, carrots, cantaloupe, wheat grem, sunflower seeds
• Avocados, bran, Brewer’s yeast, lentils, brown rice, soybeans, white albacore tuna, whole-grain flower

• required to prevent the damage done to arteries by high protein diets

Benefits ∞

Physical and mental health, water retention, production of hydrochloric acid and the absorption of fats and protein, maintaining sodium and potassium balance, and promotes red blood cell formation, cancer immunity, prevention of arteriosclerosis, premenstrual syndrome, kidney stones, allergies, arthritis, asthma.

Symptoms of Deficiency ∞

Anemia, convulsions, headaches, nausea, flaky skin, a sore tongue, and vomiting, acne, anorexia, arthritis, conjunctivitis, cracks or sores on the mouth and lips, depression, dizziness, fatigue, hyper-irritability, impaired wound healing, inflammation of the mouth and gums, learning difficulties, weak memory, hair loss, hearing problems, numbness, oily facial skin, stunted growth, and tingling sensations.

Sources ∞

Brewer’s yeast, carrots, chicken, eggs, fish, meat, peas, spinach, sunflower seeds, walnuts, and wheat germ, avocado, bananas, beans, blackstrap molasses, broccoli, brown rice and other whole grains, cabbage cantaloupe, corn, dulse, plantains, potatoes, rice bran soybeans, and tempeh, alfalfa, catnip, and oat straw. All foods contain some vitamin B6.