Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, has been known to medical science since the 1930s, and like the other B complex vitamins performs numerous functions which are essential for human health. A regular supply must be ensured from the diet because the vitamin can be neither synthesized nor stored in the body.

Vitamin B6 has probably attracted most attention from medical researchers and nutritional therapists as a means of reducing blood homocysteine levels, because an excess build up of this compound is well established as an indicator of an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. One European research project, for example, reported in 1997 that the risk was more than doubled in subjects who showed levels of blood homocysteine in the top 20% of the range revealed by the tests.

Vitamin B6 is known to operate together with vitamins B12 and folic acid to break down homcysteine into the harmless, and in fact beneficial, amino acids, methionine and cysteine; and the effect is potentially very significant. Some research in fact suggests that moderate supplementation with B6 may consequently reduce disease risk by as much as a third. But as important as this function of pyridoxine is, it's just one of the many health benefits it can offer; benefits which have led some practitioners to conclude that B6 may be the most vital of all the B complex vitamins.

On a general level, vitamin B6 is vital for the body's production of prostaglandins, hormone type compounds which are responsible for the proper operation of so many of the body's vital functions, including the blood supply and respiratory system, that imbalances are suspected to be a major cause of ill-health. This is also essential for the functioning of at least 100 enzymes governing such biochemical reactions as the manufacture of necessary proteins, genetic matter and amino acids; and the digestion of dietary carbohydrates and fats.

More specifically, good intakes of pyridoxine have been strongly linked to a robust immune system, particularly in older adults; whereas deficiencies appear to be directly correlated with a reduction the number of the body's T cells, the most vital for immune system function.

There is also evidence to suggest that vitamin B6 may help stabilise blood sugar and reduce the tissue and particularly eye damage which commonly follows the blood sugar problems associated with diabetes.

Vitamin B6 is also particularly associated with women's health, and is important in maintaining the correct balance of oestrogen and other female hormones. This relationship with the sex hormones has led to pyridoxine being used by some therapists as treatment for the depression that often accompanies the contraceptive pill. And more general depression is just one of the neurological disorders, along with epilepsy and impaired cognitive function for which B6 is claimed to be beneficial.

Vitamin B6 has been used for the relief of morning sickness in pregnancy since the 1940s, and is also believed to help alleviate pregnancy related high blood pressure. Vitamin B6 has also been used with some success in the relief of pre-menstrual tension and with the yeast growth, candidiasis.

On the face of it, given its wide availability in common foods, the Western world should never see deficiencies of vitamin B6. But like the other B complex vitamins, it is all too easily removed from the body by the normal process of excretion. Intensive exercise, sweating, and the taking in of excessive fluids may therefore increase the body's requirement. The body's need for B6 also appears to be greater in proportion as it is comprised of lean, particularly muscle, tissue and more is required the more protein foods are consumed. So even orthodox opnion therefore acknowledges the probable benefit of supplementing with B6 at a level sufficient to ensure an intake of at least 2 mg per day. Some practitioners, however, recommend a normal target of 50 mg a day because of the wide ranging benefits attributed to the action of pyridoxine. But even higher doses of 100 mg may be recommended when attempting to tackle specific conditions. This kind of intake is in fact the suggested safe maximum suggested by the US Food and Nutrition Board, limits which are always set at very conservative levels; and the only toxicities observed from vitamin B6 intake have been in consequence of amounts very far in excess of this dosage.

But when taking B vitamins it needs always to be remembered that they are so closely dependent on each other that no single one of them can discharge its functions effectively in the absence of an adequate supply of each of the others. It is for this reason that the B complex vitamins are commonly found together in foods, and why any additional B vitamins should only be taken in the form of a supplement including the entire complex. Importantly as well, like all vitamins, those of the B complex operate best when in the presence of good quantities of all the nutrients required by the body. Most authorities therefore recommend that they be taken in conjunction with comprehensive multi-vitamin and mineral supplements, magnesium being particularly important in maximising the effect of vitamin B6.

By: Stephen P Smith
Steve Smith is a freelance copywriter specialising in direct marketing and with a particular interest in health products.
Find out more at http://www.sisyphuspublicationsonline.c ... mation.htm.

Submitted by:
Barry Arcant
Legal Resources Services

Contrary to popular belief, belly dancing doesn't involve only the belly in its movement. The entire body moves in the dance and it has evolved from traditional forms to heart pumping work-outs. Its a form of exercise that any adult, regardless of age, gender, weight, agility and knowledge of dance steps, can participate in. This is something that serves as an excellent alternative for people who don't normally like going to the gym. One thing is sure though, belly dancing can be highly addictive. Belly dancing is low impact (the risk of injury is minimal when the dance movements are done correctly). The most distinguishing feature of belly dancing is the isolated motions of the abdomen. These circular, rolling, angular and vibrating movements are all based on natural body movements and it is exactly that makes belly dancing such a safe form of exercise for people of any age.

The flowing movements of hip drops, rolls, pivots that are done during belly dancing use the muscle groups in the abdomen, pelvis, spine and neck. During belly dancing, the joints and ligaments in your lower back and hips are put through a full range of gentle repetitive motions. Don't you know that belly dancing can prevent pregnancy pains? The movements of the dance mimic the childbirth process and teaching mothers how to move their pelvises. Pregnant mothers also find that belly dancing helps relieve them of back pain and keep their body supple. While shimmies should be avoided during pregnancy, the figure eights and rolling circular movements are good preparation for childbirth; they assist the normal pelvic relaxing process to prepare for birth and at the same time, helps firm the pelvic muscles for labor and post pregnancy recovery.

A woman's body also gets into shape faster after a natural birth if the woman has been belly dancing both before and after giving birth, because the emphasis on muscle control helps encourage abdominal tone. Post birth incontinence(inability to control of urine) is also avoided due to strong pelvic floor muscles. The gentle repetitive movements of belly dancing helps lessen the pains of pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) and cramps during the periods of women of childbearing age by stimulating blood flow to the lower regions of the body. Hip rolling, figure eights and undulations also help improve circulation in and alleviate congestion in the pelvic area.

The relaxation that belly dancing gives to its practitioners help them deal with stress, which a major contributing factor to pre-menstrual syndrome. It is also considered to be a weight bearing exercise since a dancer is on her feet, constantly moving all throughout. Weight bearing exercises can help prevent osteoporosis (calcium deficiency) and increase bone density. It can also burn up to 300 calories/hr. depending on the intensity of your dancing. The biggest problem for people trying to lose weight and maintain a lifestyle is boredom. Belly dancing is fun, improvisational, personal and easy; its a good idea for those who are on their first attempts to lose weight, and for those who tend to backslide on their exercise programs. Closely related to stress release is the deep breathing results in better oxygenation of the blood, which helps us eat and sleep better, and slows down the aging process.

Physical therapists and doctors who have known this dance recommend belly dancing because of its suppleness and fluidity of movement that can help relax and lubricate joints and can be helpful in cases of arthritis, particularly in the wrists and shoulders. There are some emotional benefits that can be derived from belly dancing. It has been noted that it can free your mind from stress and tension. The subtle rhythm, repetitiveness of the dance allows you to let go of other concerns, inducing a state of mental relaxation that gives you breathing room in your mind. It has been also noted that it can boosts self esteem and gives you a feeling of empowerment.

By: Arnold Cafe
Arnold Cafe is an active internet marketer and author of Ideas Galore: http://www.affleap.com/blog/

Submitted by:
George Snedrow
Reverse Phone Directories

This article gives an overview of The Mediterranean Diet and how using it will enable you to lose weight effectively, healthily and as importantly for good! If you are looking to lose 10 pounds this week, then this diet and this article aren't for you. However, if you are looking to make significant and lasting weight loss and become healthier in the process then read on.

Crash diets that we are all to familiar with are saturating the weight loss market - people who want to lose weight want to lose weight yesterday. This approach just doesn't work.

Typically these diets restrict your eating or deprive you of what your body wants or needs. You may lose weight initially but this mainly due to calories loss and dehydration. When we come off the diet the weight invariably piles on again - usually more so - and we are in a vicious cycle of trying the next 'best' diet ever.

So how do you lose weight?

There is a simple answer to this question. It isn't a great secret, but the diet industry try very hard to keep it that way. The only way is to lose weight is to eat a little less and exercise a little more.

Eating Less + Exercising More = Weight Loss.

On top of this you should only aim to lose a small amount of weight each week. No more than 1 or 2 pounds a week is plenty. In this first month you can expect to have lost over a stone! If you are willing to adjust your mindset, include an exercise plan and healthy eating habits, then The Mediterranean Diet is for you.

Remember being slim is only good if you are able to enjoy it!

What is The Mediterranean Diet?

People who live in European countries like Spain, Italy and Greece eat a typical Mediterranean Diet. A diet that is rich in fish, fruit, vegetables and olive oil.

Doctors and nutritionists worldwide agree that eating this way is very good for your health and can help avoid overweight related illnesses. It has now been established that there is a direct link between obesity and cancer, heart disease and kidney and liver failure.

Not only can it help you lose weight it can also make you live longer!

How does it work?

Experts agree that all the fruit and vegetables eaten by our European friends along with 'good' fats in foods like nuts, fish and olive oil are the key. All the fish and nuts mean it's also rich in essential fatty acids and antioxidants, a combination that will help improve your cholesterol levels and keep your heart healthy.

By: Mike Toal
If you would like to find out more information on The Mediterranean Diet, including detailed weight loss plan and recipes follow the link to my site.

Mike Toal is the author of many articles on dieting and healthy weight loss. For more information on this and other weight loss plans visit his website http://www.weight-loss-programs.co.uk.