Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)

Question 1

List the properties of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)

6

Answer 1

Water soluble

Insoluble in fat

Heat stable up to 100 degrees Celsius

Destroyed by oxygen

Destroyed alkalis

Destroyed by light

Question 2

What destroys vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)

4

Answer 2

Heat above 100 degrees Celsius
Oxygen
Alkalis
Light

Question 3

List the sources of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)

6

Answer 3

Meat 
Fish 
Green vegetables 
Nuts 
Bananas 
Offal

Question 4

List the functions of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)

7

Answer 4

Aids the metabolism of carbohydrates to release energy

Aids the metabolism of proteins to release energy

Aids the metabolism of fats to release energy

Relieves symptoms of pre-menstrual tension (PMT)

Relieves symptoms of nausea in early pregnancy

Supports healthy nerve activity

Prevents pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy in babies

Question 5

List the effects of a deficiency of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine)

5

Answer 5

Tiredness and irritability due to a lack of energy

PMT symptoms

Nausea during pregnancy

Cognitive impairment

Convulsions and seizures in young babies

Question 6

List some symptoms of pre-menstrual tension

5

Answer 6

Mood swings 
Irritability 
Depression 
Anxiety 
Bloating

Question 7

A lack of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) results in cognitive impairment, describe this deficiency

Answer 7

Delayed nerve impulses lead to cognitive impairment e.g. memory loss or disorientation