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What is Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate?

Pyridoxal-5-phosphate is the coenzyme form of the essential vitamin B6, pyridoxine. It is the most bioavailable form of vitamin B6 and does not need conversion in the liver.

Also known as P5P B6 or P-5-P, pyridoxal-5-phosphate is an enzyme catalyst in numerous processes that include energy metabolism, neurotransmitter functions and muscle growth and repair.

Vitamin B6 is important in proper amino acid metabolism and neurological function. Vitamin B6 in the form of pyridoxal-5-phosphate serves as a cofactor in many enzyme reactions, including the transsulfuration pathway, in which homocysteine is converted to cystathionine and then to cysteine. This phosphate form of pyridoxal is also essential to many reactions in tissue, such as amino acid decarboxylations.

Its chemical name is 4-formyl-5-hydroxy-6-methylpyridin-3-yl)methoxy]phosphonic acid

Health Benefits of Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (P5P B6)

In order for vitamins to be utilized by the body, they must first be converted into their active coenzyme forms. This means vitamin B6 must be converted by the liver into pyridoxal-5-phosphate before it is active in the body.

As the active form of vitamin B6, pyridoxal-5-phosphate allows for the best absorption in the body, because it is ready to go to work immediately.

Supplementation may be necessary as, in some individuals, the body does not convert pyridoxine to pyridoxal-5-phosphate very efficiently. This active form of vitamin B6 can become as much as 10 times more effective than Pyridoxine when it is indicated.

Vitamin B6 is required in amino acid metabolism, sphingolipid biosynthesis and degradation, heme biosynthesis, neurotransmitter biosynthesis, collagen formation and glucocorticoid action. Pyridoxal-5-phosphate, an essential co-factor that facilitates transamitation reactions, also helps to drive metabolic reactions necessary for BCAA (Branched Chain Amino Acids) utilization at the cellular level.

By helping manage the balance of sodium and potassium in the body, vitamin B6 is crucial in the fluid balance regulation and the electrical functioning of the nerves, heart and musculoskeletal system.

Vitamin B6 is especially important with respect to protein metabolism. Many amino acid reactions rely on vitamin B6 to help get amino acids across the intestinal mucosa into the blood and from the blood into cells. By itself and with other enzymes, pyridoxal-5-phosphate helps build amino acids, break them down, and change one to another.

It is directly related to the production and metabolism of choline, methionine, serine, cysteine, tryptophan, and niacin.

Pyridoxal-5-phosphate supports the central nervous system in the production of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

The pyridoxal group is beneficial in the utilization of all food sources for energy and in facilitating the release of glycogen (stored energy) from the liver and muscles. It assists in the production of antibodies and red blood cells (hemoglobin synthesis) as well, and in the synthesis and functioning of both DNA and RNA.

So many functions are performed by pyridoxal-5-phosphate that its deficiency affects the whole body. Most of these deficiency symptoms are fairly vague. Muscle weakness, nervousness, irritability and depression are not uncommon. Many of the symptoms are similar to those of both niacin and riboflavin deficiencies.

Purity and Concentration of Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate(P5P B6)

Purebulk pyridoxal-5-phosphate contains no fillers, taste additives or anti-caking agents.

Suggested Use of Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate

The suggested serving size for P5P is 2.5 milligrams to 50 milligrams daily, depending on individual needs. You can see the full bulk density/volumetric conversion chart for pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P5P B6) here. A serving size of 1/64 teaspoon is equal to 42 milligrams (mg). For precision measuring use a milligram weight scale, which PureBulk also sells.

The FDA recommend a daily intake value (DV) of 2 milligrams Vitamin B6 per day for adults. Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate yields 68% Vitamin B6. Thus, a 2.5 mg serving yields 1.7 mg Vitamin B6. A 3 mg serving will yield about 2 mg Vitamin B6. Do not take more than 200 mg P-5-P in a day.

Potential Side Effects of Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (P5P B6)

No toxicity has been reported with P-5-P, however Vitamin B6 overuse can cause neurological disorders, such as loss of sensation in legs and imbalance, when taken in high quantities of more than 200 milligrams per day over an extended period of time. Symptoms of a pyridoxine overdose may include poor coordination, staggering, numbness, and decreased sensation to touch, temperature, and vibration.

Bioavailability, Mixing and Solubility of Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (P5P B6)

Pyridoxal-5-phosphate powder dissolves quickly in warm or hot water, but rather slowly in cold water. Mix with water or juice and drink.

Magnesium may increase the effectiveness of P-5-P.

How should I store it?

You will receive this powder in a resealable bag. Store it in a cool, dry, dark location. Reseal tightly between uses.

References & Further Research

University of Maryland Medical Center: Vitamin B6

Linus Pauling Institute, Micronutrient Information Center

NOTE: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

The information at Purebulk.com is NOT a substitute for medical advice. ALWAYS consult your doctor or pharmacist. Do not use any dietary supplement as a replacement for conventional care, or as a reason to postpone seeing a doctor about a medical problem. Tell all your health care providers about any complementary and alternative practices you use. Give them a full picture of what you do to manage your health. This will help ensure coordinated and safe care.

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