From the Guidelines
The recommended daily dose of vitamin B6 for women is 1.3 mg/day. This dosage is based on the Dietary Reference Intake (DRI) established by the Institute of Medicine Food and Nutrition Board, as outlined in the study published in Diabetes Care in 2002 1.
Key Points to Consider
- The recommended daily intake of 1.3 mg/day is sufficient to meet the nutrient requirements of nearly all healthy women.
- It is essential to note that the tolerable upper intake level for vitamin B6 is 100 mg/day, and exceeding this amount can lead to adverse effects such as sensory neuropathy 1.
- Vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including metabolism, brain development, and immune function.
- A balanced diet that includes foods like poultry, fish, potatoes, chickpeas, bananas, and fortified cereals can provide the necessary amount of vitamin B6.
- For women with specific health conditions or those considering supplements, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage and avoid potential interactions with medications.
From the Research
Vitamin B6 Recommended Daily Intake for Women
The recommended daily intake of vitamin B6 for women can vary depending on several factors, including age, pregnancy, and lactation.
- According to the study 2, the average requirement (AR) for vitamin B6 intake for adult females is 1.2 mg/day, and the recommended intake (RI) is 1.4 mg/day.
- For pregnant women, the AR is 1.3 mg/day in the first trimester and 1.5 mg/day in the second and third trimesters, while the RI is 1.5 mg/day in the first trimester and 1.8 mg/day in the second and third trimesters 2.
- For lactating women, the AR is 1.3 mg/day and the RI is 1.6 mg/day 2.
- Another study 3 suggests a vitamin B6 Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) for young women of 1.1 mg/d or 0.016 mg/g protein, and a Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of 1.5 mg/d or 0.020 mg/g protein.
Factors Affecting Vitamin B6 Status
Several factors can affect vitamin B6 status in women, including:
- Dietary intake: A study 4 found that approximately 11% of Puerto Rican adults were deficient in vitamin B6, and another 17% were insufficient.
- Household income: Low household income was associated with lower plasma PLP levels 4.
- Physical activity: Physical inactivity was associated with lower plasma PLP levels 4.
- Smoking: Current smoking was associated with lower plasma PLP levels 4.