14 Signs and Symptoms of Vitamin B6 Deficiency

Individuals having vitamin B6 deficiency might notice symptoms like skin rashes, mood swings, tingling sensation and pain in the hands and feet. Several factors such as consuming vitamin B6 inactivating drugs, excessive alcohol, or medical conditions like malabsorption can cause a deficiency.

Stay tuned to know more about the causes and symptoms of this nutrient deficiency and the ways of recovery.

Vitamin B6 deficiency usually occurs along with a low level of other B vitamins such as vitamin B12 (cobalamin) and vitamin B9 (folic acid). It can cause biochemical changes, becoming more apparent with gradual increase in deficiency level.

Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is one of the central molecules in cells of a living organism. It is also associated with more than 150 enzymatic reactions as a coenzyme, thus playing a crucial role in the functioning of cells.

It is rare to have an isolated vitamin B6 deficiency; instead, low levels of other B-complex vitamins, like folic acid and vitamin B12, are typically linked to poor vitamin B6 status.

A number of variables, including age, food, medical problems, and prescription use, can affect the prevalence. Because fortified meals and dietary supplements are readily available, deficiencies are comparatively uncommon in developed countries.

Vitamin B6 deficiency can occur due to several reasons. Some of them are:

• Malabsorption syndromes, such as Crohn’s disease, celiac disease, and ulcerative colitis.
• Individuals who have genetic diseases, such as homocystinuria, can cause insufficiency of vitamin B6.
• Certain medications, such as antiepileptic drugs.
• Intake of vitamin B6 inactivating drugs such as antiseizure, isoniazid, hydralazine, and corticosteroids.
• Alcoholism.
• Hyperthyroidism.

Now that you are aware of what causes low vitamin B6, it is time to learn about its long-term effects.

Take a look at the diseases caused by deficiency of vitamin B6.

If individuals have a low level of vitamin B6 for a long period, it can lead to vitamin B6 deficiency diseases, such as –

• Cognitive decline and dementia.
• Alzheimer’s disease. 
• Anaemia.
• Various types of cancer.
• Eye diseases.
• Vitamin B6 deficiency can cause rheumatoid arthritis.
• Cardiovascular diseases.   

It is clear from the above discussion that a long-term deficiency of vitamin B6 causes which disease. Therefore, individuals must learn about prevention methods to overcome the health issues related to it.

There are several ways to diagnose vitamin B6 deficiency in individuals. Below are a few common methods:

1. Blood Tests

Blood tests are the primary method used to diagnose vitamin B6 deficiency. Specifically, healthcare providers measure pyridoxal phosphate (PLP) levels, the active form of vitamin B6 in the blood. Low levels of PLP indicate a deficiency. Blood tests may also measure other markers related to vitamin B6 metabolism to confirm the diagnosis.

2. Clinical Evaluation

Healthcare providers also rely on clinical evaluation to diagnose vitamin B6 deficiency. This involves assessing the patient's symptoms and medical history, including dietary habits, alcohol consumption, and any underlying medical conditions that could affect vitamin B6 levels. Symptoms commonly associated with vitamin B6 deficiency, such as neuropathy, anaemia, and cognitive changes, are considered during clinical evaluation.

3. Dietary Assessment

A dietary assessment is often part of the diagnostic process for vitamin B6 deficiency. Healthcare providers review the patient's typical diet to evaluate their intake of vitamin B6 rich foods, supplements, and potential dietary restrictions that may affect absorption. A diet low in vitamin B6 sources can contribute to deficiency and is considered during diagnosis.

Individuals can easily prevent Vitamin B6 deficiency by consuming vitamin B6 rich foods, vegetables, fruits. Here is a list detailing these food items –

• Protein-rich foods such as poultry, fish, organ meats, beef and turkey seafood, nuts and seeds; beans, peas, lentils, and soy products.
• Potatoes and other starchy vegetables.
• Fat-free and low-fat milk, oils, yoghurt, and cheese.
• Fruits, except for citrus fruits.

You can always consult a dietician to get a proper diet chart comprising these food items in appropriate proportions.

Include adequate vitamin B6 rich foods in your diet to ensure no deficiency. The lists below have various food items mentioned:

Fruits to Overcome Vitamin B6 Deficiency

Vegetables to Overcome Vitamin B6 Deficiency

Other Eatables to Overcome Vitamin B6 Deficiency

A lack of vitamin B6 is typically accompanied by deficiencies in other B vitamins, including vitamin B12 and folic acid (vitamin B9). For those over 50, 1.3 milligrams of vitamin B6 should be taken daily. The recommended daily dose for women is 1.5 milligrammes, and for males is 1.7 milligrammes beyond the age of 50.

There are many diseases linked to vitamin B6 deficiency. Microcytic anaemia, electroencephalogram irregularities, dermatitis with cheilosis (lip scaling and mouth cracking) and glossitis (tongue swelling), disorientation and depression, and compromised immune systems are all linked to vitamin B6 insufficiency.

Consume a range of foods high in vitamin B6 as part of a balanced diet. If your doctor advises it, take a vitamin B6 supplement. Steer clear of smoke and alcohol. People should take vitamin B6 supplements orally if they are deficient in the vitamin or if they are taking medication that causes the body to lose vitamin B6. For adults, supplementing with vitamin B6 generally resolves the shortage.

Most nutritional deficiencies take up to 6 months to resolve with proper treatment. Patients can observe improvements before this time as well, depending on the treatment procedure. The exact time required to correct vitamin B6 deficiency entirely depends on the nutrient level in a body and the severity of the condition.

The above discourse on vitamin B6 deficiency, symptoms, and causes will hopefully help in the early identification of such a condition. Accordingly, Individuals can take necessary precautions to avoid a deficiency or consult a professional for recovery.

Given below are some groups of people at the risk of contracting vitamin B6 deficiency diseases:

1. Poor Dietary Intake

Individuals who do not consume enough foods rich in vitamin B6, such as poultry, fish, potatoes, bananas, and fortified cereals, are at risk of deficiency. Vegetarians and vegans who do not supplement their diets adequately with B6 sources may also be susceptible.

2. People With Certain Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can impair the absorption or utilisation of Vitamin B6. These include kidney disease, liver disease, autoimmune disorders affecting the intestines, and genetic conditions that affect vitamin B6 metabolism.

3. Alcoholism

Chronic alcohol consumption can lead to vitamin B6 deficiency due to poor dietary intake, impaired absorption, increased excretion, and altered metabolism of the vitamin.

4. Older Adults

Ageing is associated with decreased absorption and utilisation of vitamin B6. Older adults may also have reduced intake of B6 rich foods due to changes in appetite, dental health, or socioeconomic factors.

5. Intake of Certain Medications

Certain medications can interfere with vitamin B6 metabolism or increase its excretion, leading to deficiency. Examples include isoniazid (used to treat tuberculosis), penicillamine (used for Wilson's disease), and anticonvulsant medications.

6. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Mothers

Pregnant and breastfeeding women have increased vitamin B6 requirements. Deficiency during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal development, while breastfeeding mothers may require additional B6 to meet their own and their baby's needs.

Prevent the risk of low vitamin B6 by taking proper precautions and ensuring adequate vitamin B6-rich foods in your daily diet. For best results, take supplements if required after being prescribed by a medical practitioner.