What is the Difference Between Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12?

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Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12 are two essential water-soluble vitamins that play crucial roles in the body. They are both members of the B-vitamin complex, but they have different functions and can be found in different food sources.

Vitamin B6:

  • Regulates hormones and supports the immune system.
  • Involved in the breakdown and build-up of amino acids, which are the foundation of proteins.
  • Essential for the production of blood, the functioning of the nervous system, and the reinforcement of the immune system.
  • Found in animal products such as meat, fish, dairy products, and eggs, as well as in some plant-based foods.

Vitamin B12:

  • Essential for nerve function and DNA synthesis.
  • Helps in the production of red blood cells.
  • Found in meats, fish, and dairy products, and can also be added to foods or supplements.

Both vitamins participate in red blood cell production and help boost immunity, supporting healthy immune system function. However, they also have separate functions: Vitamin B6 works to regulate hormones, while B12 is essential to nerve function and DNA synthesis. Neither vitamin is better than the other; they are both equally essential to your well-being.

Comparative Table: Vitamin B6 vs Vitamin B12

Here is a table highlighting the differences between Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12:

Characteristic Vitamin B6 Vitamin B12
Definition Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin. Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin.
Chemical Formula C8H11NO3 C63H88CoN14O14P
Sources Chicken, beef, fish, sweet potato, and banana. Clams, liver, dairy products, fish, and meat.
Benefits - Hemoglobin formation and blood pressure support. - Nervous system and heart health.
Deficiency Symptoms - Microcytic anemia and chapped lips. - Megaloblastic anemia.

Both Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12 are essential for the body, but they have distinct roles and functions. Vitamin B6 is involved in more than 100 metabolic processes and supports healthy immune system function. On the other hand, Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve function and DNA synthesis.