Evidence supporting the use of: Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal 5 phosphate)
For the health condition: PMS Type C
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal 5'-phosphate) has some scientific basis for use in supporting or treating PMS Type C (the "cravings" type, characterized by symptoms such as carbohydrate cravings, increased appetite, headache, and fatigue). Several clinical studies and systematic reviews have explored the effects of vitamin B6 on premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms in general, with some focusing on mood and somatic symptoms, but few have isolated Type C specifically. The rationale for B6 use is primarily linked to its role in neurotransmitter synthesis, particularly serotonin and dopamine, which influence mood and appetite regulation. A meta-analysis (Wyatt et al., 1999, BMJ) found that vitamin B6 may be more effective than placebo in relieving overall PMS symptoms, though study quality and effect sizes varied, and specific symptom clusters like cravings were not always separately analyzed. Doses up to 100 mg/day have been studied, with moderate improvements in symptoms such as irritability, fatigue, and carbohydrate cravings reported in some trials. However, the overall evidence is limited by methodological weaknesses and heterogeneity among studies. While vitamin B6 is commonly recommended in clinical practice for PMS, especially for mood and somatic symptoms, the evidence specific to PMS Type C is modest at best, justifying a low-to-moderate evidence rating.
More about Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal 5 phosphate)
More about PMS Type C
Other ingredients used for PMS Type C
ashwagandhacalcium
chaste tree
chromium
cinnamon
dong quai root
magnesium
vitamin B6
vitamin C
wild yam
zinc
Agnuside
Vervain
Other health conditions supported by Vitamin B6 (pyridoxal 5 phosphate)
AnemiaAnxiety
Autism
Depression
Diabetes
Emotional Sensitivity
Memory and Brain Function
Migraine
Nerve Damage
Nervous Exhaustion
Nervousness
Neuralgia and Neuritis
Peripheral Neuropathy
PMS (general)
PMS Type A
PMS Type C
PMS Type D
PMS Type H
PMS Type P
PMS Type S
Pregnancy (herbs and supplements for)
Seizures
Sleep (restless and disturbed)
Stress
Worry