According to the National Institutes of Health, vitamin B-6 comes in three forms: pyridoxine, pyridoxal and pyridoxamine. Ensuring adequate levels of the water-soluble vitamin is important for overall health. Most people get enough vitamin B-6 from dietary intake. Some individuals are at high risk for vitamin B-6 deficiency that can lead to health problems. Vitamin B-6 therapy should be guided by a physician.
Why Vitamin B-6 is Important
Vitamin B-6 is important for metabolism and cellular function. Low levels can lead to poor immune function. All of the B vitamins work in harmony to synthesize fats and protein that provide the body with daily energy. Vitamin B-6 gives skin a healthy glow, balances mood and is important for nervous system function, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center.
Risks for B-6 Deficiency
People who are at high risk for deficiency of pyridoxine include elders and patients taking antidepressants, such as phenelzine (Nardil) and tranylcypromine (Parnate), known as MAO inhibitors. The National Institutes of Health explains that older adults are more likely to be deficient in vitamin B-6 because of limited food choices. Chronic alcohol use is also a risk for low levels of the vitamin. Children treated for asthma with the drug theophylline may have lower vitamin B-6 levels.
Symptoms
Symptoms of pyroxidine deficiency occur when levels are extremely low for long periods of time, according to the NIH. When levels are severely low symptoms include skin inflammation, tongue redness, pain and swelling or glossitis, depression, seizures and confusion. Deficiency can also result in anemia that causes symptoms of fatigue, shortness of breath and pale skin. People who consume large amounts of alcohol might experience nerve damage known as neuropathy that causes feelings of numbness or tingling in the extremities.
Recommendations for Daily Intake
Evaluating your risk factors and diet can provide clues as to whether you should take vitamin B-6 and should be discussed with a health-care provider. Taking too much pyridoxine can have untoward health consequences, The upper limit of vitamin B-6 intake, according to the National Academies, is 100 mg per day for all adults. Doses in excess can lead to pain, numbness and weakness in the limbs from sensory neuropathy. The best way to get enough pyroxidine for optimal health is from a variety of nutritious foods.
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