Vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine) is important for normal brain development and for keeping the nervous system and immune system healthy. Vitamin B-12 (cobalamin) is a water-soluble vitamin that plays essential roles in red blood cell formation, cell metabolism, nerve function and the production of DNA.
Vitamin B-6 and B-12 are available as oral supplements, but instead of taking separate tablets, Alexander Medical prescribes a Vitamin B Complex in order for our patients to have a more overall approach to Vitamin B deficiencies.
People who have kidney disease or conditions that prevent the small intestine from absorbing nutrients from foods (malabsorption syndromes) are more likely to be vitamin B-6 deficient. Certain genetic diseases and some epilepsy medications also can lead to deficiency. This can cause a condition in which you don't have enough healthy red blood cells to carry adequate oxygen to your body's tissues (anemia), confusion, depression and a weakened immune system.
If left untreated, a vitamin B deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue, muscle weakness, intestinal problems, nerve damage and mood disturbances.
Evidence
Research on the use of Vitamin B-6 and B-12 for specific activities and conditions shows:
Heart and blood vessel disease.
Vitamin B-12, in combination with folate, has been shown to control high levels of homocysteine in the blood. Elevated homocysteine might increase your risk of diseases of the heart and blood vessels (cardiovascular disease).
Dementia.
Vitamin B-12 deficiency is associated with dementia and low cognitive function.
Heart and blood vessel disease and stroke.
Vitamin B-6 has been shown to work together with folate (vitamin B-9) and vitamin B-12 to control high levels of homocysteine in the blood. Elevated homocysteine levels might increase your risk of diseases of the heart and blood vessels (cardiovascular disease).
Morning sickness.
Vitamin B-6 might reduce the severity of morning sickness during pregnancy. If you have persistent morning sickness symptoms, your pregnancy care provider might prescribe vitamin B-6 supplements.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS). There is evidence that vitamin B-6 might reduce symptoms of PMS.
Sideroblastic anemia. Vitamin B-6 is effective at treating this genetic type of anemia.
Alexander Medical tailors your treatment plan to both your lab levels, as well as symptoms. We prescribe clinical grade Vitamin B Complex in our office to ensure all patients receive a product we believe in.
*all information is taken from the Mayo Clinic