Swollen Ankles and Vitamin B6

In the human body, ammonia is essential for making proteins and eliminating waste. However, a build up of ammonia can create water retention issues such as swollen limbs, bloating during periods, or any neurological symptoms.*

Vitamin B-6
Eight neurotransmitters are B6 dependent, making this vitamin critical for proper function of the nervous system.

Some of the classic signs of B6 deficiency include:

• cracks at the corners of the mouth
• burning on the soles of feet
• neuritis / neuropathy
• sore or swollen tongue
• chapped lips  
• depression
• confusion
• dermatitis
• anemia
• weakened immune function

Vitamin B6 is also a cofactor in over 100 enzymatic reactions in the body. In particular, the liver enzymes AST and ALT rely on B6 to move ammonia around in the body. When B6 is deficient, ammonia waste builds, and ALT and AST will often be low on a blood test.
 

Dietary vitamin B6 is converted into its active form Pyridoxyl-5 Phospate (P5P) with the help of Zinc, Riboflavin, Phosphorus, and Magnesium. Most nutritional companies today have phased out the production of vitamin B-6 in favor of P5P. While supplementation with P5P can be beneficial, it's generally more favorable to supplement with said precursors, and / or vitamin B6 itself. This will allow the body to synthesize P5P on its own and provide the body with what it needs. 
 

Most people get enough vitamin B6 through their diet, however a diet that is high in carbohydrates, sweets, or alcohol will deplete B6. In Applied Kinesiology, screening tests have been developed to detect vitamin B6 deficiency as well as excess ammonia in the system. In choosing the appropriate supplements, muscle testing is employed to meet the needs of each individual. 

*Swollen ankles can be a sign of heart, liver, or kidney disease. Such conditions must be ruled out by a medical doctor when considering a functional medicine approach.