Vitamin B6
Understanding Vitamin B6
What is Vitamin B6?
Vitamin B6 test measures the levels of Vitamin B6 present in the blood. Vitamin B6 is also known as Pyridoxal phosphate (PLP) or Pyridoxine. It is usually present in sufficient amounts in the diet, but if a person is deficient in other B complex vitamins, there are chances of getting Vitamin B6 deficiency as well.
What is Vitamin B6 used for?
The Vitamin B6 test is done in case of signs and symptoms such as:
Skin rashes
Cracked and sore lips
Sore, glossy tongue
Mood swings
Weakened immune function
Tiredness and low energy
Tingling and pain in hands and feet
Seizures
What does Vitamin B6 measure?
The Vitamin B6 test measures the levels of Vitamin B6 in blood. Vitamin B6 belongs to the Vitamin B complex group. Generally, this vitamin is found in the diet, but its deficiency can be found in people who are deficient in other B complex vitamins. The chances of vitamin B6 deficiency are more in people having liver, kidney, digestive, or autoimmune diseases. Along with that, people who are smokers, overweight, alcoholics, and pregnant women can also have a deficiency of this vitamin.
Vitamin B6 plays a role in the processing of protein, carbohydrates, and fats in the body. It is also important for the proper functioning of the nervous system and the immune system. It is also said to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which help in preventing chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer.
Vitamin B6 is found in food sources like poultry, fish, meat, eggs. potatoes, bananas, chickpeas, cereal grains and flour, vegetables (e.g., peas, spinach, and carrots), seeds and nuts, legumes, milk, and cheese. It is also found in fortified cereals and nutrition bars. The recommended daily amount of Vitamin B6 required for adults is around 1.7 mg. People eating only plant-based food require additional foods to meet the required amount of Vitamin B6 intake in the body.