Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal)
For the body system: Serotonin

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 4

Vitamin B6, particularly in its active form pyridoxal 5'-phosphate, plays a crucial role in the biosynthesis of neurotransmitters, including serotonin. The conversion of the amino acid tryptophan to serotonin is a two-step process, the second of which (decarboxylation of 5-hydroxytryptophan to serotonin) requires Vitamin B6 as a cofactor. This biochemical requirement is well-established in the scientific literature. Deficiency of Vitamin B6 has been shown to lead to reduced serotonin levels, which may contribute to mood disorders such as depression. Supplementation with Vitamin B6 can improve serotonin synthesis, particularly in individuals who are deficient or have suboptimal levels of the vitamin. Several clinical studies support the role of B6 in mood regulation and its adjunctive use in the management of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and depression, likely due to its involvement in serotonin production. However, while the biochemical mechanism is clear and supported by experimental data, the clinical efficacy of B6 supplementation for mood enhancement in the general population is less robust, with some studies showing modest benefits and others showing limited effects. Overall, there is strong scientific justification for the role of Vitamin B6 in serotonin synthesis, with moderate evidence that supplementation may benefit serotonin-related functions in individuals with low B6 status.

More about Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal)
More about Serotonin

Other body systems supported by Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal)

Blood
Brain
Glandular System
Immune System
Nerves
Serotonin
Skin

Products containing Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal)

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