Doctor's Assessment Included
Every result includes a professional assessment from a BIG-registered doctor. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.
Vitamin B6
Vitamin B6 is considered important for cognitive function, immune health, and metabolism in older adults. Requirements may change with age, and some medications common in later life may affect B6 status. Healthcare providers can help assess your needs.
Reference Ranges
Low
20
Normal
125
High
Low
20
Normal
125
High
Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.
What It Measures
This test measures vitamin B6 (pyridoxal phosphate) levels in your blood, expressed in nmol/l. It may help assess whether your body has adequate B6 for amino acid metabolism and neurotransmitter production. Your healthcare provider can provide personalised interpretation.
Why It Matters
For adults over 60, adequate B6 may be particularly important for maintaining cognitive function, supporting immune health, and preventing anaemia. Age-related changes and medication use may affect B6 requirements. A healthcare provider can recommend appropriate monitoring.
When to Test
Testing may be considered when experiencing mood changes, peripheral neuropathy, weakened immunity, or anaemia symptoms. Healthcare providers may also recommend testing for individuals taking certain medications, those with kidney conditions, or people with limited dietary variety.
Symptoms
Low Levels
Some people with low vitamin B6 may experience irritability, depression, confusion, mouth sores, or a weakened immune response. Peripheral neuropathy with numbness and tingling has also been reported. A healthcare provider can help identify the cause of these symptoms.
High Levels
Elevated vitamin B6 levels, typically from excessive supplementation, may sometimes be associated with nerve damage causing numbness or difficulty with coordination. Some people may experience skin sensitivity. Consult your healthcare provider if your levels appear elevated.
Lifestyle Tips
Foods considered rich in vitamin B6 include poultry, fish, potatoes, chickpeas, bananas, and fortified cereals. A varied diet typically provides adequate amounts. Some people may benefit from discussing supplementation with their healthcare provider, especially if on restricted diets.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does vitamin B6 affect mood and mental health?
Vitamin B6 is believed to be involved in producing neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine, which may influence mood regulation. Low levels have been associated with mood changes in some studies. Discuss any concerns about mood with your healthcare provider.
Can you take too much vitamin B6?
Excessive vitamin B6 intake from supplements over prolonged periods may potentially cause nerve damage in some individuals. This is generally not a concern with food sources alone. Always follow your healthcare provider's recommendations regarding supplementation dosages.
Does vitamin B6 interact with medications?
Certain medications, including some used for epilepsy, tuberculosis, and autoimmune conditions, may affect vitamin B6 levels. If you are taking medications, consult your healthcare provider about whether B6 monitoring or supplementation may be appropriate for you.