1NUTRIENTS

Why Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate? (Vitamin B6)

3 min read

Essentials

Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (P5P) is the only active coenzyme form of Vitamin B6, superior to pyridoxine hydrochloride (PHCl) due to its direct bioavailability and efficiency, as it does not require liver conversion.*
P5P plays a crucial role in methylation, a vital biological process involved in DNA repair, immune function, and more; without P5P, the conversion of homocysteine to methionine, a necessary step in methylation, is hindered.*

Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate. P5P. Quite a scientific-sounding name for a vitamin, isn’t it? It's the kind of term that makes you think of lab coats, microscopes, and complex chemical reactions. And in a way, you wouldn't be wrong.

Why your body network (head, heart, and gut) may like P5P more than PHCl.

P5P is the only active coenzyme form of Vitamin B6. It’s the form we, at HCF®, favor for our advanced nootropics over more traditional Vitamin B6 (like Pyridoxine Hydrochloride). Why? Simple. Because of its potential benefits when compared to other forms of Vitamin B6.

P5P (PYRIDOXAL-5-PHOSPHATE)		PHCL (PYRIDOXINE HYDROCHLORIDE)
More Bioavailable and Readily Utilized by the Body*	BIOAVAILABILITY	Less Bioavailable Compared to P5P*
Already in the Active Form, So No Conversion is Needed for Utilization by the Body*	CONVERSION REQUIREMENT	Requires Conversion to Its Active Form (P5P) in the Body Before Utilization*
Participates Directly in Various Enzymatic Reactions as an Active Coenzyme*	ENZYMATIC REACTIONS	Requires Conversion to P5P to Act as an Active Coenzyme in Enzymatic Reactions*
Plays a Vital Role in the Synthesis of Neurotransmitters Like Serotonin, Dopamine, and Norepinephrine*	NEUROTRANSMITTER SYNTHESIS	Contributes to Neurotransmitter Synthesis but May Require Conversion to P5P for Optimal Effect*
Shows Better Tissue Uptake and Utilization Due to Its Active Form*	TISSUE UPTAKE	Requires Conversion to P5P for Efficient Tissue Uptake and Utilization*
Generally Well-Tolerated with a Lower Likelihood of Allergic Reactions*	POTENTIAL ALLERGENICITY	May Have a Higher Potential for Allergic Reactions in Sensitive Individuals*
Generally More Expensive Compared to PHCl Due to Additional Processing and Higher Bioavailability	PRICE	Often Less Expensive Compared to P5P
Sources DOI: 10.32394/rpzh.2021.0157, 10.3390/nu9030189, Gastroenterology. 1976 Dec;71(6):1043-9

Research suggests that Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate has properties related to bioavailability, efficiency, and methylation. On the other hand, PHCl is more like a raw material. It needs processing. The liver has to convert it into P5P before the body can use it.*

But unlike its cousin, Pyridoxine Hydrochloride, P5P doesn't need a liver detour. It's ready for action, directly available for the body to use. No conversion necessary.*¹

Another significant benefit of P5P is its role in methylation.*^2,3

Methylation is a crucial biological process in DNA repair, immune system function, neurotransmitter production, detoxification, energy production, cell division and growth, and heart health.

Yes, it's that important!

P5P (as active Vitamin B6) can play an important role in all these. It aids in converting homocysteine to methionine, a necessary step in methylation. Without P5P, this conversion may be hindered and the whole process disrupted.*

For some, the choice between Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate and PHCl is about more than just absorption and efficiency.

Ever heard of PDXK mutations?

Typically, PDXK mutations can affect the peripheral nerves, causing weakness, numbness, and pain. However, ongoing research has shown that this mutation is responsive to P5P supplementation (making this nutrient a potential support for those affected).^4,5 For them, P5P isn't just a better option—it may be very important for their well-being.*

Gentle on your stomach, tough on deficiencies.

Most prefer Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate (although significantly more expensive) due to its perceived gentleness on the digestive system.*

But despite the Vitamin B6 importance, many people still don't get enough from food alone. The Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) for Vitamin B6 is 1.3 milligrams for adults under 50, but many people fall short of this amount.

Vitamin B6 is found in a wide variety of foods. The richest sources include fish, beef liver, potatoes, starchy vegetables, and some non-citrus fruits.

In the U.S. for example, adults can get most of their dietary Vitamin B6 from beef, poultry, starchy vegetables, and some non-citrus fruits. However, only about 75% of Vitamin B6 from a mixed diet is bioavailable.*

Here's where HCF® comes in to bridge the gap. By using the more bioavailable form of Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxal-5-Phosphate), our HCF® advanced nootropics can help you get this important neuro-nutrient in a more efficient and effective way.*

See what next level neuro-nutrients nourish HCF®

* 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 contents of this website do not constitute advice and are provided for informational purposes only. See our full medical disclaimer

Sources

Meet Our Experts

Kerri Rachelle PhD c., RDN, LDN, CSSD, A-CFMP

Author, Linkedin

Kerri Rachelle, a Registered Dietitian (RDN, LDN, CSSD, A-CFMP), PhD candidate in Integrative Medicine, and published author, specializes in nutrient absorption, cellular health, gut health, detoxification, and mental health. She is an international presenter for the Integrative and Functional Nutrition Specialist Certificate Program and the founder of Revolution Health, where she leads a team dedicated to sharing her expertise in natural practices that address the root causes of health issues, empowering health professionals worldwide.