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Pyridoxine or Vitamin B6 is an important member of the B Complex family. This nutrient is thought to be involved in more body processes than any other vitamin or mineral. It is needed to break down and release of energy from protein, and is critical to the proper functioning of the immune and nervous systems. Vitamin B6 works as a chemical transmitter, a building block for neurotransmitters (serotonin) in the brain, forms red blood cells, and prostaglandins, and maintains hormonal balance. Vitamin B6 plays a vital role in the multiplication of cells, therefore is of critical importance to a healthy pregnancy.

Nutritional sources of Vitamin B6 include wholegrains, legumes, bananas, potatoes, nuts and seeds. A deficiency of Vitamin B6 is characterised by depression, blood sugar fluctuations, impaired nerve function, cracking of the lips and tongue and eczema.

Numerous clinical studies demonstrate the importance of Vitamin B6 in a number of health conditions including premenstrual syndrome (PMS), despondency, morning sickness and kidney stones. Alleviation in the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) may be due to Pyridoxine’s involvement in reducing excess oestrogen in the body.

Vitamin B6 deficiency is a common finding in carpel tunnel syndrome; a painful disorder caused by suppression of the median nerve as it passes between the bones and ligaments of the wrist. Double blind placebo controlled studies at Texas University have treated hundreds of carpel tunnel sufferers with Vitamin B6 supplements. Also ‘Chinese restaurant syndrome’, a medically recognised condition that occurs because of a reaction to monosodium glutamate (a food additive) may be eliminated by the use of Vitamin B6 supplementation.

According to a recent USA study a lack of Vitamin B6 may cause stress, anxiety and a reduction in enjoyment of life. Researchers concluded that effective treatment for depondency might begin with Vitamin B6 supplements.
Certain substances are known to reduce Vitamin B6 levels, these include food colourings, drugs like dopamine and penicillamine, oral contraceptives, alcohol and excessive protein intake.

Thompson’s Pyridoxine is in the form of Pyridoxine hydrochloride - the most popular form of Vitamin B6.