Vitamin B6 - Sources and Functions

Sources of Vitamin B6

1. Yeast, sunflower seeds, wheat germ, soya beans and walnuts are the richest sources of pyridoxine among plant foods.
2. Lentils, lima beans and other vegetables provide fair amounts.
3. Raw foods contain more of this vitamin than cooked foods.

Functions of Vitamin B6 Pyridoxine

1. Pyridoxine aids in food assimilation and protein and fat metabolism, especially in the metabolism of essential fatty acids.
2. It activates many enzymes and enzyme systems.
3. It is involved in the production of antibodies which protect against bacterial diseases.
4. Pyridoxine helps in the healthy functioning of the nervous system and brain.
5. It is essential for the normal reproductive process and healthy pregnancies.
6. This vitamin prevents nervous and skin disorders, provides protection against a high cholesterol level, certain types of heart disease and diabetes.
7. It prevents tooth decay.
8. Vitamin B6 regulates the balance between sodium and potassium in the body, which is vitally important for normal body functions.
9. It is also required for absorption of vitamin B12 and for the production of hydrochloric acid and magnesium.

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