1) It has a central role in cells
Vitamin B6, found in foods like meats , fish , nuts , legumes , and fruits , plays an essential role in our cells . It is often added to multivitamin formulas and dietary supplements.
This water-soluble (water-soluble) vitamin is essential for many enzymatic reactions, influencing the metabolism of carbohydrates and amino acids. It is also crucial for neurotransmitter synthesis and immune function . ( 1 )
2) It is a coenzyme involved in many reactions
Vitamin B6 is truly remarkable because of its central role in our body. This molecule, which acts as a coenzyme (a substance that helps enzymes catalyze chemical reactions) , is at the heart of more than a hundred chemical reactions essential to our well-being. It is particularly involved in the way our body processes carbohydrates , fats , proteins in the form of amino acids and nucleic acids .
In addition, it plays a key role in communication between our cells . In other words, vitamin B6 is a pillar of the proper functioning of our metabolism and cell signaling, making it an essential element for our health . ( 2 )
3) It plays a role in energy, fatigue and cognition
Vitamins play a fundamental role in the optimal functioning of our body, intervening in many metabolic processes essential to our cellular functions .
Among these vitamins, vitamin B6 stands out for its importance. It is crucial for vital functions like energy metabolism , DNA synthesis and neuronal functions . These roles are essential for the proper functioning of the brain, which has direct repercussions on our cognitive and psychological abilities , as well as our level of fatigue .
A study sheds light on vitamin B6, exploring its biochemical basis in detail and describing its actions at the molecular and cellular level. In addition, research establishes a link between this vitamin and cognitive and psychological symptoms, as well as the signs of fatigue that can appear when this vitamin is in insufficient quantity in our body. ( 3 )
4) It preserves muscle mass during diets
Researchers have studied the effect of reduced-calorie diets on vitamin B6 levels in women. They compared two diets: one rich in vegetables and the other in grains , particularly breakfast cereals. The results showed that women in both groups saw their vitamin B6 intake increase.
However, only those in the group consuming more grains showed a noticeable increase in vitamin B6 in their blood. To conclude, a diet rich in grains could help improve vitamin B6 levels, which is beneficial when looking to lose weight while preserving muscle mass . ( 4 )
5) Vitamin B6 deficiency can lead to depression
Vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in our mental well-being. One study found that people, especially women , who consume less vitamin B6 are more likely to experience symptoms of depression .
In other words, insufficient intake of vitamin B6 could increase the risk of mood disorders . Paying attention to our consumption of this vitamin is therefore very important, as it could have a direct impact on our mental health and our quality of life. Ensuring adequate vitamin B6 intake is a preventative step in maintaining good mental health. ( 5 )