Vitamins B6 and B3 are part of the group of B vitamins essential for converting food into energy. Vitamin B6, also know as pyridoxine, is also essential for proper peripheral nerve function, synthesis of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, and for maintaining skin, mucous membranes, and circulatory function. Pyridoxine also helps regulate immune function by assisting in the production of interleukins, and for hemoglobin formation.

Fortunately, many foods are a good source of vitamin B6. These foods include grains, meat, fish, beans, peas, dairy foods, and many fruits and vegetables. Deficiencies are not common but can be seen in chronic alcoholism, obesity, pregnancy and intestinal disorders involving malabsorption such as Crohn’s Disease, and ulcerative colitis.

Vitamin A is also essential to all types of body cell growth, such as blood, skin and nerve cells. Also known as retinol, vitamin A is responsible for preventing night blindness and fighting free radicals, a by product of cell destruction. It is a powerful anti-oxidant, which is defined by fighting free radicals. This helps fight disease and aging. Retinol and the various B vitamins work hand in hand to help maintain cellular functions in all the body systems.

Our bodies manufacture niacin from pyroxidine, so getting enough B vitamins is absolutely necessary. Vitamin B3, or niacin, is essential in the manufacture of sex hormones and for normal blood circulation. Since the liver regulates the production of most vitamins, or stores them, patients with liver disease are at high risk for vitamin deficiencies.

All of these vitamins, but especially B6 helps resist the formation of homocysteine, a chemical that is detrimental to cardiac function. Adequate overall nutrition is the best way to keep the body in the best possible working order.