The 5 benefits of vitamin B6 for heart health
Homocysteine Metabolism Uses Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is essential for the metabolism of homocysteine, an amino acid that, when elevated in the blood, is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases such as heart disease and stroke. Vitamin B6 helps convert homocysteine into other amino acids or molecules that can be excreted from the body, thus lowering its levels and reducing the risk of cardiovascular events.
Reduces Inflammation
Vitamin B6 has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation throughout the body, including in the blood vessels. Chronic inflammation is a major contributor to the development and progression of cardiovascular diseases, and by lowering inflammation, vitamin B6 may help protect against conditions such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, and heart failure.
Supports Heart Muscle Function
Vitamin B6 is involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which play important roles in regulating heart rate, blood pressure, and cardiac muscle contraction. Adequate levels of vitamin B6 support optimal heart muscle function, helping maintain a healthy cardiovascular system.
Vitamin B6 Helps Regulate Blood Pressure
Vitamin B6 is involved in the synthesis of haemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen to tissues throughout the body, including the heart. By supporting red blood cell production and oxygen delivery, vitamin B6 helps regulate blood pressure and maintain optimal cardiovascular function.
Antioxidant Activity
Vitamin B6 acts as a cofactor for several antioxidant enzymes that help neutralise harmful free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage. By reducing oxidative stress, vitamin B6 may help prevent endothelial dysfunction, arterial plaque formation, and other processes that contribute to the development of cardiovascular diseases.
Should I Supplement Vitamin B6?
Good dietary sources of vitamin B6 include poultry, fish, beans, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fortified cereals. However, in the UK it’s surprisingly common to have lower than ideal levels of vitamin B6 along with other B vitamins. Age, stress, alcohol and certain medications can all increase the amount of vitamin B6 we need. So can kidney disease, autoimmune conditions and other health problems.
If you choose to supplement vitamin B6, it’s far better take it as part of a well-balanced complex than just on its own. B vitamins work synergistically in the body, meaning they often rely on each other for optimal function. For example, vitamin B6 requires other B vitamins like folate and B12 for proper metabolism and utilisation. Additionally, deficiencies in one B vitamin can affect the absorption or utilisation of others.
By taking a B-complex supplement, you can make sure that you’re getting the full spectrum of B vitamins in the correct proportions, which can support overall health and energy metabolism more effectively.
Cautions
Remember to consult your doctor without delay if you have any concerns about your heart. If you’re on medication for your heart, especially blood thinners, you must always check with your doctor before starting any new supplements to make sure they’re safe to take together.
