Content
The excess of vitamin B6 usually arises in people who supplement the vitamin without the recommendation of a doctor or nutritionist, and it is very rare to happen only through eating foods rich in this vitamin, such as salmon, bananas, potatoes or nuts, for example. example.
To manifest symptoms of vitamin B6 poisoning, it is necessary to consume more than 500 to 3000 times the recommended daily dose, which is quite difficult with food alone.
Vitamin B6 is very important for keeping nerves and muscle cells healthy, and it is recommended that each adult ingest between 1 to 2 mg per day. However, when this amount is well above 3000 mg for more than 2 months, the vitamin can damage the nerves, causing symptoms such as:
- Tingling in the hands and feet;
- Muscle cramps and spasms;
- Severe headache;
- Nausea and loss of appetite;
- Increased blood pressure;
- Excessive tiredness;
- Difficulty sleeping;
- Muscle and bone pain;
- Dizziness and imbalance;
- Sudden changes in mood.
These symptoms usually disappear 1 to 2 weeks after the vitamin intake is reduced, leaving no sequelae.
However, in cases where the excess of vitamin is maintained for several months, permanent nerve damage can occur, causing sequels such as difficulty walking, constant pain in the legs and weakness of the muscles.
How the treatment is done
The treatment for symptoms caused by excess vitamin B6 is done by reducing or interrupting the vitamin intake, and the symptoms disappear after a few weeks.
However, when permanent nerve damage already exists, it may be necessary to undergo physical therapy, for example, to deal with the sequelae and improve the quality of life.
When it is necessary to take supplements
Vitamin B6 supplements are recommended to treat various health problems, such as depression, frequent nausea, PMS symptoms, carpal tunnel syndrome and even to relieve symptoms caused by the use of oral contraceptives.
However, the use of this type of supplements should always be guided and supervised by a doctor or nutritionist, since, to exercise their therapeutic effect, they must be used in high quantities, often in doses above 2000 mg per day, making the person more susceptible to suffer side effects caused by excess vitamin.
See more about the indications for vitamin B6 supplementation, as well as the recommended amount.
Created by: Tua Saúde Editorial Team
Bibliography>
- STATPEARLS. Vitamin B6 Toxicity. 2020. Available at:. Accessed on 15 Jun 2020
- COZZOLINO Silvia. Nutrient bioavailability. 4th. Brazil: Manole Ltda, 2012. 645-669.