Vitamin B6 (pyroxidine)

…is the focus for this weeks Vitamin Rich post (previous post on Vitamin B5 click here).

Vitamin B6, also called pyroxidine is necessary for the absorption and metabolism of amino acids. It also plays roles in the use of fats in the body, the formation of red blood cells, decreases homocysteine levels and risk of heart disease and improves glucose tolerance. Vitamin B6 also improves carpal tunnel syndrome, mood and sleep disorders and, possibly, reduces PMS symptoms.

Pyridoxine deficiency is characterized by skin disorders, cracks at the mouth corners, smooth tongue, convulsions, dizziness, nausea, anaemia, and kidney stones.

The best sources of pyridoxine are…

Whole (but not enriched) grains
Cereals
Liver
Avocados
Spinach
Green beans
Bananas
Rice bran
Brown rice
Oatmeal
Soybeans
Sunflower seeds
Broccoli
Brewer’s yeast
Halibut
Pork

Vita-Rich Recipe 8

After a long period of indulgence I often crave simple, nutritious and ‘cleansing’ foods which help restore my abused digestive system! I am a great fan of Japanese food in general (not just sushi) and I find many Japanese dishes to be comforting and restorative. One snack/side dish I enjoy particularly is boiled Edamame - Soybeans boiled in their pods, which just so happens to be rich in vitamin B6.

Boiled Soybeans (Edamame)

Ingredients

150g soybeans (in their pods) per person - frozen or fresh if you’re lucky enough to find them.
Boiling water
Salt

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add the beans and cook uncovered at a medium boil until the beans are tender but still firm, 5 to 10 minutes.
Timing and doneness vary according to batch and personal preference.
Begin testing every minute after the first 5 minutes to avoid overcooking.
When the beans are done, drain them and run under cold water to set the colour and halt cooking.
Drain well and transfer to a bowl.
Serve edamame at room temperature in a large bowl, split open the pods (easily done with a thumbnail), revealing the green beans that are sweet, nutty and highly nutritious!

Come back soon for the next post on Vitamin B7.

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