The health benefits of vitamin B6
The Health Benefits of Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin, also known as pyridoxine, that is essential for a number of bodily functions. Your body cannot produce vitamin B6, so it must be consumed via food or supplements. This vital nutrient supports everything from mood regulation to protein metabolism, making it particularly important for anyone following a high-protein diet or taking collagen supplements.
Reduces Symptoms of Depression and Improves Mood
Vitamin B6 plays an important role in regulating your mood because it is involved in the production of neurotransmitters that are responsible for regulating your emotions, including dopamine, serotonin and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA). These chemical messengers influence how you feel, sleep and respond to stress.
Research also suggests that vitamin B6 may be important in decreasing the levels of homocysteine in the blood, which is an amino acid linked to psychiatric issues such as depression. Studies have found that people with depression often have lower levels of vitamin B6, and supplementation may help improve mood in those with deficiency.
Supports Haemoglobin Production and May Help Prevent Anaemia
Due to the part vitamin B6 plays in producing haemoglobin, it could be helpful in preventing anaemia caused by haemoglobin deficiency, particularly in women of childbearing age and pregnant women. Haemoglobin is the protein responsible for delivering oxygen to your cells, so when your haemoglobin levels are low, your cells are deprived of oxygen which can lead to anaemia symptoms such as tiredness, weakness and pale skin.
Vitamin B6 deficiency is rare in the majority of healthy adults in developed countries, so research is limited regarding the use of vitamin B6 supplements to treat anaemia. However, ensuring adequate intake is important for maintaining healthy red blood cell production.
May Help Treat Nausea During Pregnancy
For decades, vitamin B6 supplements have been used to treat vomiting and nausea in pregnant women. The vitamin is an ingredient in Diclegis, the medication often prescribed to treat morning sickness. Scientists do not yet have a complete understanding of why vitamin B6 helps to reduce morning sickness, but a number of studies have found that it can significantly improve symptoms.
A study of 342 women who were under 17 weeks pregnant found that a 30mg supplement of vitamin B6 taken every day was effective in reducing vomiting and nausea after only five days. If you're experiencing morning sickness, speak with your GP or midwife before starting any supplement.
Vitamin B6 and Collagen Production
Vitamin B6 supports protein metabolism, which is essential for collagen synthesis in your body. When you consume collagen peptides, your body breaks them down into amino acids and rebuilds them into new collagen tissue. Vitamin B6 helps facilitate this process by supporting the enzyme reactions involved in protein breakdown and reassembly.
This is why Kollo includes vitamin B6 alongside marine collagen peptides - the two work synergistically to ensure your body can effectively use the collagen you consume.
Food Sources of Vitamin B6
| Food Source | Vitamin B6 per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Chickpeas (1 cup) | 1.1mg | 55% |
| Salmon (100g) | 0.6mg | 30% |
| Chicken breast (100g) | 0.5mg | 25% |
| Banana (1 medium) | 0.4mg | 20% |
| Avocado (1 whole) | 0.4mg | 20% |
| Spinach (1 cup cooked) | 0.4mg | 20% |
Other Health Benefits of Vitamin B6
- Supports immune function by helping produce antibodies
- May reduce risk of heart disease by lowering homocysteine levels
- Helps maintain healthy brain function and may reduce age-related cognitive decline
- Supports healthy skin by reducing inflammation
- May help prevent clogged arteries and reduce heart disease risk
- Supports healthy pregnancy and foetal development
Who Needs Extra Vitamin B6?
Certain groups may benefit from higher vitamin B6 intake or supplementation:
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women who have increased nutrient needs
- Older adults who may have reduced absorption
- People with kidney disease or autoimmune disorders
- Those following restrictive diets that limit B6-rich foods
- Anyone taking high doses of protein supplements or following high-protein diets like keto
Why Kollo Includes Vitamin B6
Kollo Premium Liquid Marine Collagen is formulated as a complete daily supplement, not just collagen peptides. Each sachet delivers 100% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin B6 (along with vitamins C, B1, B5, B12 and l-lysine) to ensure your body has all the cofactors needed to support collagen production, protein metabolism and overall health.
The liquid format ensures optimal absorption of both the collagen peptides and the vitamins, making it easy for your body to use these nutrients effectively. Whether you're taking Kollo for skin health, joint support, hair growth or overall wellness, the vitamin B6 content ensures your body can maximise the benefits.
Kollo Premium Liquid Marine Collagen provides 10,000mg of premium Naticol marine collagen peptides plus a complete vitamin profile including vitamin B6. Each batch is Informed Choice certified for purity and safety.
If you're pregnant, breastfeeding, or managing a medical condition such as anaemia or depression, always consult your GP before starting any new supplement to ensure it's appropriate for your individual circumstances.
Kollo Health was co-founded by Jenni Falconer - TV presenter, Smooth Radio breakfast host, ten-time London Marathon runner and host of the RunPod podcast. Jenni understands the importance of complete nutrition for performance and recovery, which is why Kollo includes a full vitamin profile alongside premium marine collagen peptides - not just collagen alone.
