Ray Peat on Vitamin B6

January 29, 2026

Long-term Damage to the Pancreas from Malnutrition and Deficiencies

“The pancreas can be damaged by prolonged malnutrition, so that the inability to produce insulin may become permanent. It is known that a deficiency in magnesium and vitamin B6 is involved in the damage to the pancreas. Insulin itself is only part of the insulin-like system (Adv in Metabol Disorders 7, p. 26, 1974); proper treatment requires a thorough consideration of all factors.”

Nutrition For Women

Dietary Relief of Tension Caused by Excess Copper or Estrogen

“Tension caused by excess copper or estrogen can be relieved through diet. Usually, zinc supplementation is necessary – about 20 mg per day; for this problem, about 30 mg of vitamin B6 has been recommended, but the amount varies depending on the person. The other B vitamins as well as vitamin E and vitamin A should also be used.”

Nutrition For Women

Zinc Deficiency Related to Excess Estrogen and Its Dietary Consequences

“A zinc deficiency is often associated with a vitamin B6 deficiency and an excess of copper; since estrogen is linked to zinc loss, other nutrients – including vitamin E and folic acid – should also be considered when nails have white spots.”

Nutrition For Women

Mitigating Prolactin Excess with Vitamin B6, Thyroid, and Progesterone

“All effects of prolactin excess (including amenorrhea), which respond to an increase in the DOPA/serotonin ratio, can to some extent also be achieved with other, more readily available substances. Vitamin B6, thyroid, and progesterone all have this effect.”

Nutrition For Women

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