From the Guidelines
Vitamin B6 deficiency symptoms include fatigue, anemia, skin rashes, cracks at the corners of the mouth, swollen tongue, depression, confusion, weakened immune function, and peripheral neuropathy (numbness or tingling in hands and feet) as noted in a study published in Nutrition Research Reviews 1. These symptoms can be attributed to the diverse roles of vitamin B6 in the body, including amino acid metabolism, neurotransmitter synthesis, and red blood cell formation.
Key Symptoms
- Fatigue
- Anemia
- Skin rashes
- Cracks at the corners of the mouth
- Swollen tongue
- Depression
- Confusion
- Weakened immune function
- Peripheral neuropathy (numbness or tingling in hands and feet) The effects of vitamin B6 deficiency on the nervous system and blood cell production are particularly concerning, as they can lead to more severe health complications if left untreated.
Dietary Recommendations
Good dietary sources of vitamin B6 include poultry, fish, potatoes, chickpeas, and bananas, as mentioned in a study published in the American Journal of Kidney Diseases 1. For diagnosed deficiencies, supplements typically range from 25-100 mg daily, though doses should be determined by a healthcare provider, and long-term high-dose supplementation (over 100 mg daily) should be avoided as it can cause nerve damage. Recent studies have also highlighted the potential link between vitamin B6 deficiency and age-related sarcopenia, emphasizing the importance of adequate vitamin B6 intake for maintaining muscle mass and function in older adults 1.
From the Research
Vitamin B6 Deficiency Symptoms
The symptoms of a vitamin B6 deficiency can vary, but some common symptoms include:
- Seizures, as reported in adults with chronic renal disease, liver disease, pregnancy, and certain medications 2, 3
- Neurological disorders, including convulsions and epileptic encephalopathy 3, 4
- Peripheral neuropathies, such as paresthesia, burning and painful dysesthesias, and thermal sensations 5
- Impaired cognitive function, Alzheimer's disease, cardiovascular disease, and different types of cancer, which may be related to suboptimal vitamin B6 status 6
- Sensory abnormalities, such as numbness, tingling, and pain, which can improve with vitamin B6 supplementation 5
Specific Populations
Certain populations may be more susceptible to vitamin B6 deficiency, including:
- Elderly patients, particularly those on chronic peritoneal dialysis 5
- Adults with chronic alcoholism 3
- Patients with liver disease, pregnancy, and certain medications 2
- Individuals with genetic epilepsies, such as pyridoxine-dependent epilepsy and hyperprolinemia type II 4
Treatment and Prevention
Vitamin B6 deficiency can be treated with supplementation, and in some cases, symptoms can improve significantly within a short period of time 5. It is essential to consider vitamin B6 deficiency as a potential cause of seizures and other neurological symptoms, especially in patients with underlying diseases that can cause seizures 2, 3.