Are you overdosing on this vitamin without even knowing it? Hidden dangers to watch out for
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As we age, we often become more conscious of our health and well-being, and it's not uncommon to turn to supplements to maintain our vitality.
However, what if the products we trust to keep us healthy could be causing us harm?
This question has come to light with recent concerns over the potential dangers of excessive vitamin B6 intake.
Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is an essential nutrient that supports brain health and the body's conversion of food into energy.
It's naturally present in many foods and is added to others.
Still, it's also a common ingredient in over-the-counter supplements, including multivitamins, energy drinks, and even some weight loss shakes.
While it's true that B6 is vital for cognitive function, it's important to note that only individuals with confirmed deficiencies typically need to supplement it.
The risks associated with high doses of vitamin B6 over extended periods have become a serious concern.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia's regulatory body for therapeutic goods, has received 119 reports since 2020 relating to peripheral neuropathy due to vitamin B6 poisoning.
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves, leading to symptoms such as pain, weakness, and fatigue in the limbs.
One such case is that of Dr Mary Buchanan, a retired emergency physician whose mobility and independence were severely impacted after unknowingly consuming high levels of vitamin B6 through a magnesium supplement called 'Muscleze'.
Despite its benefits in treating her leg cramps and aiding sleep, the supplement led to a decline in her muscle strength and the development of peripheral neuropathy, diagnosed after two years of routine consumption.
The misconception that the body excretes excess vitamin B6 is dangerous.
Manufactured B6 can remain in the body for up to 30 days, and in Dr Buchanan's case, it accumulated in her neurological cells, causing irreversible nerve and muscle damage.
The TGA has addressed these concerns by requiring warning labels on products containing more than 10mg of B6.
However, the effectiveness of these labels is questionable, with some, like Dr Buchanan, finding them difficult to read due to small print.
The TGA is now considering further measures, such as storing B6 products behind the counter to limit public access and ensuring they are sold only by pharmacists.
The broader issue is the perception that vitamin supplements are harmless and the belief that 'more is better.'
Dr Michael Bonning from the Australian Medical Association points out that over half of Australians regularly take supplements, most of which have no beneficial impact on their health.
The reality is that a balanced diet typically provides all the necessary vitamins, and excess consumption can lead to health issues.
Social media influencers often promote supplements without disclosing their financial interests, contributing to misinformation about their necessity and safety.
It's a multi-billion dollar industry, with 75 per cent of Australian households using complementary medicines.
While some supplements are based on science and can be beneficial, consumers should look for third-party testing to verify the quality and purity of their chosen products.
Have you had an experience with supplements that you'd like to share? Do you have questions about safely incorporating them into your health routine? Let us know in the comments below.
However, what if the products we trust to keep us healthy could be causing us harm?
This question has come to light with recent concerns over the potential dangers of excessive vitamin B6 intake.
Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is an essential nutrient that supports brain health and the body's conversion of food into energy.
It's naturally present in many foods and is added to others.
Still, it's also a common ingredient in over-the-counter supplements, including multivitamins, energy drinks, and even some weight loss shakes.
Since 2020, the TGA has received 119 reports of peripheral neuropathy from vitamin B6 toxicity. Credit: bet_noire / iStock
While it's true that B6 is vital for cognitive function, it's important to note that only individuals with confirmed deficiencies typically need to supplement it.
The risks associated with high doses of vitamin B6 over extended periods have become a serious concern.
The Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA), Australia's regulatory body for therapeutic goods, has received 119 reports since 2020 relating to peripheral neuropathy due to vitamin B6 poisoning.
Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that affects the nerves, leading to symptoms such as pain, weakness, and fatigue in the limbs.
One such case is that of Dr Mary Buchanan, a retired emergency physician whose mobility and independence were severely impacted after unknowingly consuming high levels of vitamin B6 through a magnesium supplement called 'Muscleze'.
Despite its benefits in treating her leg cramps and aiding sleep, the supplement led to a decline in her muscle strength and the development of peripheral neuropathy, diagnosed after two years of routine consumption.
The misconception that the body excretes excess vitamin B6 is dangerous.
Manufactured B6 can remain in the body for up to 30 days, and in Dr Buchanan's case, it accumulated in her neurological cells, causing irreversible nerve and muscle damage.
The TGA has addressed these concerns by requiring warning labels on products containing more than 10mg of B6.
However, the effectiveness of these labels is questionable, with some, like Dr Buchanan, finding them difficult to read due to small print.
The TGA is now considering further measures, such as storing B6 products behind the counter to limit public access and ensuring they are sold only by pharmacists.
The broader issue is the perception that vitamin supplements are harmless and the belief that 'more is better.'
Dr Michael Bonning from the Australian Medical Association points out that over half of Australians regularly take supplements, most of which have no beneficial impact on their health.
The reality is that a balanced diet typically provides all the necessary vitamins, and excess consumption can lead to health issues.
Social media influencers often promote supplements without disclosing their financial interests, contributing to misinformation about their necessity and safety.
It's a multi-billion dollar industry, with 75 per cent of Australian households using complementary medicines.
While some supplements are based on science and can be beneficial, consumers should look for third-party testing to verify the quality and purity of their chosen products.
