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

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Synopsis

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

Vitamin B6, particularly in its active form pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP), plays a critical biochemical role in the synthesis of serotonin, a key neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation, sleep, and overall mental well-being. PLP functions as a coenzyme for aromatic L-amino acid decarboxylase, the enzyme responsible for converting 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) into serotonin. Deficiency of vitamin B6 can therefore impair serotonin production, leading to potential mood disturbances and other neurological symptoms.

Multiple human and animal studies have demonstrated that low vitamin B6 status is associated with depressive symptoms and altered neurotransmitter metabolism. Supplementation with vitamin B6 has been shown to increase plasma serotonin levels in some clinical settings, particularly when baseline levels are deficient. However, while the biochemical rationale and some clinical evidence are strong, the direct impact of B6 supplementation on mood or serotonin-related disorders in individuals with adequate B6 status is less clear, and results from intervention trials are mixed.

Nonetheless, the role of vitamin B6 as a necessary cofactor in the serotonin synthesis pathway is well-established and widely accepted in biochemistry and clinical nutrition literature. Thus, supporting serotonin synthesis is a scientifically validated use for vitamin B6, especially in cases of deficiency or increased requirement.

More about Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine phosphate)
More about Serotonin

Other body systems supported by Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine phosphate)

Blood
Brain
Circulatory System
Glandular System
Immune System
Nerves
Serotonin

Products containing Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine phosphate)

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.