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

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Table of Contents

Synopsis

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

Vitamin B6, including its form pyridoxamine HCl, is scientifically recognized as an essential cofactor in the synthesis of several neurotransmitters, including serotonin. Vitamin B6 acts as a coenzyme for aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase, which catalyzes the conversion of 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) to serotonin (5-HT). Deficiency in vitamin B6 can impair this step, potentially leading to reduced serotonin levels and associated mood disturbances.

Clinical studies have linked low vitamin B6 levels with depressive symptoms, and supplementation has shown some efficacy in improving mood, particularly when deficiency is present. For example, a review in the Journal of Neural Transmission (2021) summarizes evidence that vitamin B6 supplementation can increase central serotonin synthesis and may support mood regulation, especially under conditions of deficiency. However, evidence for benefit in non-deficient, healthy individuals is less clear.

While most research focuses on pyridoxine (another form of B6), pyridoxamine HCl shares similar biological activity. Overall, vitamin B6 is scientifically validated as necessary for serotonin synthesis, and supplementation is justified in cases of deficiency. The evidence for mood or serotonin support in the general population without deficiency is moderate but not as strong. Thus, the evidence rating is 4 out of 5.

More about Vitamin B6 (pyridoxamine HCl)
More about Serotonin

Other body systems supported by Vitamin B6 (pyridoxamine HCl)

Blood
Brain
Dopamine
Heart
Immune System
Nerves
Serotonin
Specific Neurotransmitters

Products containing Vitamin B6 (pyridoxamine HCl)

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