In regards of vitamin B6, ncbi says, “Beyond its role as a necessary cofactor in the folate cycle…the role of vitamin B6 in amino acid metabolism makes it a rate limiting cofactor in the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as dopamine, serotonin, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), noradrenaline and the hormone melatonin.” Vitamin B6 assists the brain perform properly as it regulates the body’s chemicals, makes the body more resistant to stress, supplies energy to the muscles by working with other vitamins and minerals, and it is an essential component of cell growth. Furthermore, vitamin B6 contriubutes to the production of hormones that help improve brain injury side-effects such as unbalanced mood, sleep. depression, anxiety, and more.
Another responsibility of vitamin B6 is to convert sugar into glucose, which is essentially fuel for your brain, And promote General circulation of the blood which can in turn help with memory. Additionally, Mayo Clinic claims, “Vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine) is important for normal brain development and for keeping the nervous system and immune system healthy.” Vitamin B6 is neccessary for brain development and a healthy immune system, both of which are often times negatively affected and in need of repair after a traumatic brain injury (TBI). Spasticity is an example of a common TBI side-effect that is involved with the nervous system. While vitamin B6 is no a cure for TBI, or spasticity, ample evidence points out that vitamin B6 is essential for brain healing and development and healing.
Vitamin B6 is available in the form of supplements and often consumed balanced diet. Below are examples of foods that are rich in vitamin B6.
- Whole grains
- Chicken
- Rice
- Beef
- Lentils
- Liver
- Bananas
- Avocados
- Beef
- Fish
- Carrots
- Soybeans
