Vitamin B6: guardian of dreams

Vitamin B6: it plays a very important role in protein assimilation

Isolated and named pyridoxine in 1936, this substance is required by the body in multiple biological systems and its deficiency can cause serious physical and mental disorders.

Because this vitamin is actually a key intermediate in amino acid metabolism, useful as a coenzyme in more than 40 enzymatic systems and more than necessary for the synthesis, degradation and absorption of amino acids in the intestine.

• Vitamin B6 is involved in the regeneration of DNA and RNA as well as in the structuring of membranes and nerve cells.
• It also plays a role in the synthesis of porphyrin, which is the origin of pigments such as haemoglobin, myoglobin or cytochromes.
• This vitamin is also involved in the formation of active and essential amines in the nervous system (histamine, serotonin, dopamine and adrenaline).
• It is a water-soluble vitamin often associated with magnesium, whose action it enhances.
• Its role is also noted in the brain in the formation of GABA, a neurotransmitter with sedative properties.
• Important in cases of stress and depression

A lack of this substance can cause spasmophilia, tetany or convulsions. Other studies have highlighted its interest in the treatment of Parkinson's disease.

Excess pyridoxine being excreted in the urine, there is a tendency for this acid to cause calcium oxalate crystals which are the origin of certain stones, hence its interest in urology.

The need for B6 is increased in cases of stress and clinical studies show that patients under vitamin B6 treatment begin to recall their dreams again.
Moreover, dream recall is a sign of normality in biochemistry and provides a good test of recent memory.
Remembering dreams then becomes an indicator of the degree of cerebral B6 deficiency, just like nausea or anorexia.

The importance of this vitamin is also noted for pregnant women, to counteract stress as well as for the needs of the foetus.

A too low level of the transaminase enzyme GOT may also indicate a lack of B6.

Closely linked to zinc, B6 deficiency is felt through various symptoms:

• anorexia and morning depression,
• unexplained chills,
• pain in the spleen,
• numbness,
• painful legs, tingling, cramps, spasms…

Vitamin B6 is mainly found in sprouted cereals (safflower seeds, wheat germ), yeasts, egg yolk, meats and fish. Note that most fruits and vegetables are poor in vitamin B6.

Vitamin B6 is water-soluble and not synthesised by the body, so it must be provided by the diet in sufficient quantity as it cannot be stored.