Vitamin B 6 is an essential water soluble vitamin required for the metabolism of amino acids and fatty acids. It exists in three chemical forms namely, pyridoxine, pyridoxal and pyridoxamine. Commonly found in fortified cereals, beans, poultry, fish, green leafy vegetables and fruits, Vitamin B 6 plays a major real in building up a healthy body.
Vitamin B 6 is required for normal functioning of nervous and immune system. It is also involved in the formation of red blood cells, protein metabolism, oxygen transportation and conversion of tryptophan to niacin. Hemoglobin, made from this vitamin, carries oxygen throughout the body. It is required for the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. These transmitters are responsible for normal nerve cell communication.
Vitamin B 6 for children is very important because this vitamin plays a major role in building healthy bodies. Imbalanced diet or certain medical condition can lead to deficiency of Vitamin B 6. Intake of drugs that deplete Vitamin B 6 present in a child’s body can also be a major cause contributing to the deficiency of Vitamin B 6.
Deficiency of Vitamin B 6 can cause seizures in children, resulting in reduced brain activity, abnormal nerve functions and various other health issues. The deficiency can be corrected by consuming nutritious diet or various vitamin supplements. Taking supplements of Vitamin B 6, children can easily combat the signs and symptoms of this deficiency.
Inadequate diet leads to deficiency but an overdose results in toxicity of Vitamin B 6. Overdose of this vitamin causes pain and numbness in the feet and legs. Although, toxicity of Vitamin B 6 can be fatal, there are many doctors who prescribe overdose of this vitamin to cure carpal tunnel syndrome and nerve damage.
Vitamin B 6 is required in small traces by a child’s body but don’t ignore the functions performed by these traces. Encourage your child to eat healthy foods to have healthy body and mind.