B6-vitamin (pyridoxine)

What role does it play in the organism?
It is crucial for the regulation of a number of metabolic processes; it is also essential for the functioning of the nervous system, the metabolism of the skin and the formation of blood.

What foodstuffs contain it?
Good dietary sources of pyridoxine are meat and liver.

Who are exposed to vitamin B6 deficiency and what does this deficiency state cause?
Its deficiency is caused the most frequently by an inadequate diet, effects of medicinal products (e.g. oral contraceptives) and regular alcohol consumption. Vitamin B6 deficiency may result in the inflammation of the skin, the tongue, as well as anaemia and cramps mainly in babies and small children.

What is the recommended intake for vitamin B6?
The daily requirement is 0.3-2 mg for children depending on age and 2 mg for adults.

What are the health risks of excessive vitamin B6?
Even high doses do not cause acute poisoning. Nervous system related side effects were perceived in adults taking 200 mg for a longer period of time. No such data is known for children, but as vitamin B6 is also used to eliminate nausea and can be found in many households, we need to make sure to keep it out of reach of children.