Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal 5'-phosphate) is sometimes used to support or treat premenstrual syndrome (PMS), including PMS Type H, which is characterized by symptoms such as bloating and water retention (often linked to "hyperhydration"). The rationale for using B6 in PMS relates to its role as a cofactor in neurotransmitter synthesis (such as serotonin and dopamine), which can influence mood and other PMS symptoms, as well as its potential to influence hormonal regulation and fluid balance. Several clinical studies have examined vitamin B6 for PMS broadly, though fewer specifically address PMS Type H or water retention. A 1999 systematic review in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology concluded that vitamin B6 may be beneficial in reducing overall PMS symptoms, but the quality of evidence was low and results were inconsistent. A 2014 Cochrane review found limited and low-quality evidence for B6 reducing PMS symptoms compared to placebo; the specific effect on fluid retention and bloating was not clear. The proposed mechanism for reducing water retention involves B6’s effect on aldosterone and estrogen metabolism, but this remains speculative. Overall, while some practitioners use B6 based on both scientific rationale and preliminary studies, robust evidence specifically supporting its use for PMS Type H symptoms like bloating is lacking. The scientific validity is weak (evidence level ~2/5), and further high-quality research is needed.

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