Vitamin B6 has been called ‘Pyridoxine’ and exists in three forms- Pyridoxal, Pyridoxamine, and Pyridoxine, which could be mutually interchangeable in the body.
Functions
It is associated with several enzyme systems which aids in metabolism, the utilization of amino acids and fatty acids in the body and the release of energy.
Sources
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Liver, meat, fish, egg yolk, wheat, green chilies, brewier’s yeast; lemons are good sources of this Vitamin.
Daily Allowance
The requirement of Vitamin B6 has not been definitely estimated; but it is suggested that a daily intake of 1 to 2 mg. is necessary.
Deficiency
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Although Vitamin B6 deficiency symptoms in humans have not been clearly evident, yet some types of angular stomatitis (cracking at the angles of the lips) and certain types of anemia have been shown to be cured by the administration of Vitamin B6. Even, inadequate intake of this Vitamin by infants has been reported to cause convulsions.