Pyridoxine, also called vitamin B-6, is a nutrient your body needs to convert the food you consume each day into energy your cells can use. Although a pyridoxine deficiency is rare, insufficient supplies of this nutrient may lead to nervousness, depression, difficulty concentrating, weakness or short-term memory loss. If you're not sure how much pyridoxine you need on a daily basis, check with your doctor.
Children
Breast-fed infants up to age 1 usually get the recommended 0.1 to 0.3 mg of pyridoxine from consuming breast milk. Women who chose not to breast-feed should talk with a doctor about how to make sure their baby is getting enough vitamins and minerals for development. As children get older, their nutritional needs generally increase. For example, children between ages 1 to 3 need 0.5 mg pyridoxine daily, while children 4 to 8 years old need slightly more--0.6 mg per day. Preteens up to age 14 require 1 mg of this nutrient daily. Providing your child with pyridoxine-rich foods, such as fish, dairy, whole grains, carrots and spinach, can help her get the nutrients she needs naturally.
Adolescents
During adolescence, the recommended daily dosage of pyridoxine varies depending on gender. Young women ages 14 to 18 require 1.2 mg of B-6 daily, while young men in this age group should get 1.3 mg. If your teen has difficulty getting enough pyridoxine in her diet, talk with your pediatrician about adding a multivitamin or pyridoxine supplement.
Men and Women Age 50 and Younger
Men and women up to age 50 should consume 1.3 mg of pyridoxine every day. Adults with certain health conditions, such as heart disease or high homocysteine levels, may benefit from taking a higher dose of pyridoxine, but only if such treatment is recommended by a physician.
Men and Women Age 51 and Older
Men and women ages 51 and older have differing nutritional needs that vary based on gender. For example, women in this age group only need 1.5 mg pyridoxine each day, while men need 1.7 mg.
Pregnant or Breast-Feeding Women
During pregnancy and lactation, women need to consume higher daily levels of vitamin B-6 to support the healthy growth and development of their baby. While pregnant, women should get 1.9 mg of pyridoxine daily. Women who breast-feed need to increase their intake of pyridoxine to 2 mg each day.
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