Scientific Name of Vitamin B6

Explore the scientific name of Vitamin B6, understand its significance, and learn about its various forms, benefits, and sources.
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3 min
10-September-2024

Vitamin B6, scientifically known as pyridoxine, is a crucial nutrient that plays various roles in maintaining our health. Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin found naturally in various foods, fortified in others, and available as a dietary supplement. This article explores what pyridoxine is, its functions in the body, dietary sources, recommended intake, and the importance of ensuring adequate nutrition for overall well-being.

Check out: List of scientific names of vitamins

What is the scientific name for vitamin B6?

The scientific name of vitamin B6 is pyridoxine. Pyridoxine belongs to the family of B vitamins, which are water-soluble and essential for converting food into energy. It exists in three natural forms: pyridoxine, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine. Among these, pyridoxine is the most common form found in foods and supplements.

Functions of vitamin B6

Vitamin B6 serves as a coenzyme in over 100 enzyme reactions involved in metabolism. Here are some key functions:

1. Amino acid metabolism

It helps break down proteins into amino acids and convert one amino acid into another. This process is vital for building and repairing tissues.

2. Neurotransmitter production

Vitamin B6 is necessary for synthesizing neurotransmitters like serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). These chemicals regulate mood, sleep, and stress response.

3. Hemoglobin production

It aids in the formation of hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body.

4. Glycogen breakdown

Vitamin B6 supports the breakdown of stored glycogen into glucose, providing energy during exercise and fasting.

5. Immune function

It plays a role in immune function by supporting the production of antibodies and immune cells that defend against infections.

What are the types of vitamin B6?

Discussed below are the types of vitamin B6 in brief:

  • Pyridoxine: The most common form found in supplements and fortified foods.
  • Pyridoxal: Active in enzymatic reactions related to metabolism.
  • Pyridoxamine: Plays a key role in amino acid metabolism.
  • Pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP): The biologically active form involved in over 100 enzyme reactions in the body.

Also read: Vitamin B6 deficiency

What are the health benefits of vitamin B6?

Given below are a few common health benefits of vitamin B6:

  • Supports brain development and function
  • Aids in the production of neurotransmitters
  • Promotes red blood cell formation
  • Helps regulate mood by producing serotonin and dopamine
  • Boosts immune system function
  • Reduces symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Vitamin B6: Essential roles in the body

Vitamin B6 plays an essential role in the body, discussed below is the same in brief:

  • Involved in protein, fat, and carbohydrate metabolism.
  • Supports the creation of neurotransmitters for brain communication.
  • Assists in hemoglobin production for oxygen transport in blood.
  • Regulates homocysteine levels, reducing heart disease risk.
  • Vital for immune system health and hormonal regulation.

Also, read: Vitamin B 12 Benefit

Dietary sources of vitamin B6

Pyridoxine is naturally present in a variety of foods, making it accessible through a balanced diet. Good dietary sources include:

  • Poultry: Chicken and turkey breast.
  • Fish: Tuna, salmon, and trout.
  • Meat: Lean cuts of beef and pork.
  • Whole grains: Brown rice, oats, and whole wheat.
  • Vegetables: Potatoes, spinach, and bell peppers.
  • Fruits: Bananas and avocados.
  • Nuts and seeds: Sunflower seeds, walnuts, and pistachios.

Explore: Types of nutrition

What is the dosage of vitamin B6?

Age group

Recommended daily allowance

Infants (0-6 months)

0.1 mg

Children (1-3 years)

0.5 mg

Children (4-8 years)

0.6 mg

Children (9-13 years)

1.0 mg

Adults (14-50 years)

1.3-2.0 mg

Adults (51+ years)

1.5-2.0 mg

Pregnant Women

1.9 mg

Lactating Women

2.0 mg


How to get vitamin B6 for the body?

You can obtain Vitamin B6 from a variety of foods, including poultry, fish, bananas, and whole grains. Fortified cereals and supplements are also effective sources. A balanced diet incorporating these foods ensures adequate Vitamin B6 intake for overall health.

Risks associated with vitamin b6 deficiency

Vitamin B6 deficiency poses significant health risks, affecting multiple bodily systems. Discussed below are a few in brief:

1. Neurological issues

Causes peripheral neuropathy, with symptoms like numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness, and may lead to severe cognitive problems including depression, confusion, and seizures due to impaired neurotransmitter synthesis.

2. Anemia

Leads to microcytic anemia, characterised by fatigue and weakness, as vitamin B6 is crucial for hemoglobin production in red blood cells.

3. Immune dysfunction

Weakens the immune system, reducing the body's ability to produce antibodies and fight off infections effectively.

4. Skin problems

Results in dermatitis, manifesting as itchy, inflamed rashes, due to disrupted amino acid metabolism.

5. Cardiovascular risks

Elevates homocysteine levels, potentially increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

6. General malaise

May cause overall fatigue, irritability, and mood swings, impacting daily life and wellbeing.

Read more: Nutritional problems in India – Causes, effects and solutions

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Importance of vitamin B6 for health insurance

Health insurance often covers preventive care, including nutritional counseling and regular check-ups that can help ensure you're meeting your dietary needs, including vitamin B6. Here’s how health insurance can be relevant:

1. Nutritional counseling

Some health insurance plans offer coverage for sessions with registered dietitians or nutritionists. These professionals can help assess your vitamin B6 intake and provide personalised advice on achieving optimal nutrition through diet.

2. Routine health check-ups

Regular health check-ups covered by insurance can include blood tests that assess your nutrient levels, including vitamin B6. This can help detect any deficiencies early on and guide appropriate dietary adjustments or supplementation.

3. Chronic disease management

Adequate intake of vitamin B6 is associated with reduced risks of certain chronic conditions, such as heart disease. Health insurance coverage for managing these conditions may include support for nutritional strategies aimed at prevention and management.

Explore: Wellness benefits in health insurance

In conclusion, vitamin B6, known scientifically as pyridoxine, is indispensable for various bodily functions, from energy metabolism to neurotransmitter production and immune support. Ensuring an adequate intake of vitamin B6 through a balanced diet rich in poultry, fish, whole grains, and vegetables is key to maintaining overall health and well-being. Insurance can play a supportive role by covering preventive services that help monitor and optimise your nutritional status. By understanding the scientific name of vitamin B6, importance of vitamin B6 and leveraging available health insurance benefits, individuals can take proactive steps towards achieving and maintaining optimal health.

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Frequently asked questions

What is another name for vitamin B6?
Another name for vitamin B6 is pyridoxine. It encompasses three forms: pyridoxine, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine. These forms are vital for protein metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and various other physiological functions, making them essential for overall health.
What is the compound name for vitamin B6?
The compound name for vitamin B6 is 2-methyl-3-hydroxy-4,5-bis(hydroxymethyl)pyridine. It includes three forms: pyridoxine, pyridoxal, and pyridoxamine, all critical for various metabolic processes and overall health.
What is Vitamin B6's generic name?

The generic name for vitamin B6 is pyridoxine. It is one of the several forms of vitamin B6 and is commonly used in dietary supplements and fortified foods.

How many days can I take vitamin B6?

Vitamin B6 can typically be taken daily as part of a balanced diet or supplement regimen. For therapeutic purposes, it's best to follow specific guidance from a healthcare provider to avoid potential side effects.

How much vitamin B6 is too much per day?

The upper safe limit for Vitamin B6 is 100 mg per day for adults. Excessive intake can lead to nerve damage, numbness, or tingling. Always consult a healthcare provider before taking high doses.

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