Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine hydrochloride) toxicity, also known as pyridoxine toxicity, typically occurs from excessive supplementation rather than from food sources, as the body regulates vitamin B6 levels from food effectively.
While B6 found in supplements is water soluble, it can accumulate in the body when taken at high levels over a long period and may build up to toxic levels depending upon your daily intake.
The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for vitamin B6 varies based on age, sex, and life stage, but for adults is generally considered to be 1.5 mg per day. Higher doses may be consumed over short periods, but these should be monitored by your health professional.
A supplement range between 10 - 50mg per day is considered adequate.
Levels above 100mg per day can lead to toxicity symptoms in some individuals after a few months of continuous daily consumption.
Vitamin B6 is often included with other nutrients in supplements to support their functions.
It is often included in Magnesium, Iron, Zinc & Immune Support supplements as well as Vitamin B Complex supplements.
The amount of B6 in these supplements can range from 5 to 50mg per dose.
So if you are taking a high dose B supplement once per day and a magnesium supplement twice a day, you may be consuming as much as 150 mg of B6 per day.
The exact level at which Vitamin B6 becomes toxic may vary from individual to individual, however if you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed below, please see your Doctor and have a blood test to determine if your B6 levels are too high.
Symptoms of vitamin B6 toxicity include:
Nerve damage: High doses can lead to sensory neuropathy, causing tingling, numbness, and pain in the extremities.
Difficulty walking (ataxia)
Decreased coordination
Muscle weakness
Light sensitivity
Gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea or heartburn
These symptoms are generally reversible once supplementation is stopped, though recovery may take time.
Please be careful when buying over-the counter supplements and always read the warnining on labels carefully.
Also be aware of self-prescribing supplements.
If you are feeling run down or low in energy, seek professional advice,
not Instagram.
To avoid toxicity, it's best to stick to the recommended doses and consult with a healthcare provider before taking high doses of vitamin B6 supplements,
or other supplements containing Vitamin A, D or iron.
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