Vitamin B-6
Vitamin B-6 is a nutrient that your body uses to synthesize serotonin and norepinephrine - two of the most important neurotransmitters in your body. Found in grains, vegetables, dairy, eggs and meat, Vitamin B-6 plays a key role in a variety of functions outside of neurotransmitter creation. In fact, Vitamin B-6 is added to supplements for a variety of functions, including:
- Increased energy levels.
- Reducing the risk of carpal tunnel syndrome.
- Preventing the formation of DHT on the skin.
- Improved immune system function.
What are the Benefits of Vitamin B-6?
Because Vitamin B-6 plays a role in a variety of enzymatic functions as well as neurotransmitter production, it is a necessary vitamin that should be in every individual's diet. That said, there are many supplementation benefits to getting Vitamin B-6 in your diet.
B-6 has been shown to help naturally increase energy levels and stamina, particularly in athletes. It is a key converter of fat and nutrients into energy, and allows the body to last longer under increased physical pressure.
When combined with Zinc, Vitamin B-6 has also been shown to reduce DHT production in the skin. Since DHT is one of the leading causes of hair loss, Vitamin B-6 helps to reduce the amount of DHT that affects hair follicles and prevents them from receiving nutrients.
Preliminary research also shows that Vitamin B-6 may reduce the effects of carpal tunnel syndrome. These studies are relatively new and are currently undergoing more thorough testing.
Vitamin B-6 has also been linked to:
- Asthma health.
- Heart health.
- Kidney health.
- Lung health.
How Safe is Vitamin B-6?
Vitamin B-6 is well tolerated - as much as 150mg can be consumed without side effects, though only 2mg of Vitamin B-6 are needed per day. At high doses (greater than 200mg), headache and nerve issues have occurred, though this is approximately 100 times the required daily value. Those with B-6 allergies should avoid B-6 supplements, but no other side effects have been found.
How is Vitamin B-6 Taken?
Most people get a healthy dose of Vitamin B-6 in food. However, supplementation may be useful for providing increased amounts of energy, supplementing diets, and reducing hair loss. In these cases, the Vitamin is usually received through nutritional supplement form.
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