Low B6 Levels: Can It Increase Your Risk of Heart Disease?

When it comes to the risk of heart disease, there’s little doubt that diet plays an important role. Diets high in saturated fat increase the risk of heart disease and heart attacks – while some fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated ones help to protect against heart disease. But, what about vitamins? According to a new study, low levels of vitamin B6 may play a role in the risk of developing heart disease.

What is B6 and Why is It Important?

Vitamin B6 is a vitamin that’s found in five different forms in the human body. Some of these forms are from animal sources, while others are found in plant based foods. Vitamin B6 is important for metabolizing proteins and for synthesizing neurotransmitters that allow nerve cells to communicate and regulate mood and brain function. It’s also important for the formation of healthy blood cells.

Low B6 Levels and Heart Disease

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition showed that higher levels of vitamin B6 are associated with lower levels of a protein called c-reactive protein – a protein that’s a marker for a high risk of heart disease. This study which involved 1,205 people showed a clear association between vitamin B6 and c-reactive protein levels – as well as levels of another protein called 8-OHdG. This particular protein increases in quantity when a cell experiences oxidative stress. Low B6 levels were associated with higher levels of this “oxidative stress” protein – which is not good in terms of heart disease risk. A previous Harvard study also showed an association between low B6 levels and a higher c-reactive protein.

Should You take B6 Supplements?

These studies suggest that getting enough B6 may be important for heart health – but don’t be tempted to go out and buy B6 supplements. Too much B6 can cause problems – including permanent nerve damage. The best way to get vitamin B6 is through the diet. Some of the best sources of vitamin B6 are animal proteins including chicken, tuna, salmon, and liver. Vegetarians are at the highest risk of a deficiency, but they can get B6 from legumes, wheat germ, bananas, navy beans, and walnuts. Vitamin B6 is better absorbed from meat than from plant based sources.

Low Levels of B6: The Bottom Line?

Although this study is interesting, it doesn’t necessarily show that low B6 levels cause heart disease, but only that the two are associated. Most people get adequate amounts of vitamin B6 in their diet if they’re not vegetarian. Vegetarians should make a conscious effort to get more vitamin B6 rich foods in their diet.

http://www.nutraingredients.com/Research/Vitamin-B6-may-affect-heart-disease-risk-Study