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What Is the Connection between Vitamin B6 and Magnesium?

Brandon May
Brandon May

Both vitamin B6 and magnesium are essential compounds needed for proper functioning in the human body, from healthy metabolism and protein breakdown to immune system support. B6 and magnesium have been linked in a few studies that show promise in alleviating behavioral and emotional disorders in children, but it is unclear as if this aides adults. It seems that both magnesium and vitamin B6, whether they are obtained from food or supplements, also work together to create proper cell function and metabolism, helping with energy production. The main difference between the two nutrients is that vitamin B6 is an organic compound, whereas the nutrient magnesium is an inorganic mineral needed in small amounts.

Vitamin B6 and magnesium are both important nutrients that aid in the proper metabolism, or break down, of carbohydrates and protein. They both function to serve as regulators to a number of enzymes that break down carbohydrates into glucose and proteins into amino acids. Glucose and amino acids are both utilized as an energy source, one reason why both magnesium and vitamin B6 are needed in the diet. Since these nutrients are known as essential nutrients, they cannot be made by the human body and must be obtained from the diet or from supplements. Very good dietary sources include chard, tuna, and bananas.

Bananas are a good source of vitamin B6.
Bananas are a good source of vitamin B6.

One study has shown that vitamin B6 and magnesium, when supplemented together in safe amounts, may be somewhat effective in alleviating behavioral problems in children. The two nutrients in combination were also shown to alleviate some symptoms of autism in children, yet vitamin B6 and magnesium shouldn't make the bulk of a treatment plan. It is unknown whether or not these same effects of the two nutrients will occur in adults, but the same chemical pathways would take place regardless of age. Most researchers conclude that magnesium and vitamin B6 show promise for the development future medicines to help fight behavior issues and even autism.

Magnesium serves many important purposes inside the body, including maintaining a stable blood pressure and heartbeat.
Magnesium serves many important purposes inside the body, including maintaining a stable blood pressure and heartbeat.

Supplemental forms of vitamin B6 and magnesium are generally regarded as safe, as long as they are taken in doses recommended by a doctor or a qualified medical professional. It is usually better to receive these nutrients from food, for better absorbability and safety, yet supplemental forms also work. The main difference between vitamin B6 and magnesium is that vitamin B6 is an organic compound, whereas magnesium is an inorganic compound. Vitamin B6 is helpful in energy production, as is magnesium, but also plays a role in alleviating inflammation, a function that magnesium has yet to show.

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    • Bananas are a good source of vitamin B6.
      By: Nikolai Sorokin
      Bananas are a good source of vitamin B6.
    • Magnesium serves many important purposes inside the body, including maintaining a stable blood pressure and heartbeat.
      By: concept w
      Magnesium serves many important purposes inside the body, including maintaining a stable blood pressure and heartbeat.
    • High levels of magnesium, a mineral that is crucial to all major organs, can be found in spinach and other green leafy vegetables.
      By: travelbook
      High levels of magnesium, a mineral that is crucial to all major organs, can be found in spinach and other green leafy vegetables.
    • Salmon is one of many foods naturally rich in magnesium.
      By: pilipphoto
      Salmon is one of many foods naturally rich in magnesium.
    • Prolonged fatigue and poor concentration are symptoms of a magnesium deficiency.
      By: kmiragaya
      Prolonged fatigue and poor concentration are symptoms of a magnesium deficiency.