Vitamin B6 (P5P)

WHAT IS PYRIDOXAL-5'-PHOSPHATE (P5P)?

Pyridoxal-5'-phosphate is the biologically active form of vitamin B6, which is involved in over 168 vital enzymatic processes throughout the body including; helping to break down proteins, carbohydrates, and fats, maintaining normal levels of homocysteine, and supporting heart, brain, and immune function.

Foods containing Vitamin B6 include; beef liver, and other organ meats, poultry, fatty fish, legumes, fruits, and vegetables such as dark leafy greens, bananas, papayas, oranges, and cantaloupe, as well as fortified cereals. Though B6 deficiency is uncommon in the industrialized world, certain conditions such as kidney disease, celiac disease, ulcerative colitis, Crohn’s disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and alcoholism can increase the risk of deficiency. Supplementation can also be useful to help prevent and treat certain symptoms and/or health conditions.

The P5P form is the preferred form of B6 and has been shown to offer better absorption than the conventional pyridoxine form. The P5P form, in fact, is in its most advanced stage of metabolism, wherein B6 has been converted into a coenzyme that can readily be absorbed in the small intestine.

BENEFITS of P5P

• Helps Maintain Healthy Heart & Blood Flow
• Relieves Symptoms of PMS
• Supports Nervous System & Metabolism
  
  

WHO NEEDS P5P?

P5P is frequently suggested to help lower levels of the amino acid homocysteine in the blood, which is key to lowering susceptibility to heart disease and stroke, as well as preventing brain atrophy and protecting brain health. P5P is also a common recommendation during pregnancy for nausea, as well as to support brain development in the fetus and later in infancy, to support immune function. Women are also frequently recommended B6 to help treat the symptoms of PMS and menopause, as well as more broadly for mood disorders.

P5P POTENCY & FORMATS

P5P Potency

P5P supplements are typically available in 30 to 100 mg potency.

P5P Formats

Bioactive B6 in P5P form can be purchased in tablets, capsules, and liquids. They can also be found in timed or delayed-release formats, that offer a delayed delivery of the nutrient to the body. 

GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR P5P SUPPLEMENT

Taking vitamin B-6 with certain recommendation medications can reduce their effectiveness. If you are taking any medication that interacts with the central nervous system, anticonvulsants, or Levodopa, speak to your health care provider before starting to supplement with B6.

An isolated B vitamin should not be taken for an extended period to prevent throwing off balance in the other B vitamins. A quality B complex is best for long-term use.