Often touted as an ally against fatigue or nervous disorders, vitamin B6 is far from harmless when consumed without medical advice. Essential for the proper functioning of the body, it is widely obtained through a regular diet, making deficiencies relatively rare in the general population.
This vitamin plays a key role in protein metabolism and neurotransmitter production. It is found in abundance in cereals, legumes, certain vegetables, and also in many animal products such as fish and liver. Daily requirements remain modest and are generally met by a balanced diet, including for pregnant women and the elderly, whose recommended intake is slightly higher.
An overdose with neurological consequences
Deficiencies do occur, however, particularly in people suffering from chronic alcoholism, after taking certain medications, or in cases of specific poisoning. In these specific cases, targeted supplementation may be justified to prevent complications such as anemia, skin disorders, or neurological damage.
However, in the absence of a proven deficiency, prolonged intake of vitamin B6 supplements poses a risk of toxicity. Excessive intake can cause neuropathy, resulting in persistent numbness or tingling. A maximum consumption limit has been established to reduce this risk, especially since vitamin B6 is already included in many products sold to combat fatigue or improve the health of hair and nails. Therefore, particular caution is advised before starting any unsupervised course of treatment.
