Why Avoid B6?
Choosing a B complex supplement without B6 can be a wise decision, especially considering toxicity risks and individual supplementation needs. Here’s why you might want to avoid B6 in your food supplement:
1. Risk of B6 Toxicity
Unlike other water-soluble B vitamins, B6 can accumulate in the body, leading to nerve damage (neuropathy) if taken in excess.
Symptoms include:
- Numbness and tingling in hands and feet
- Burning pain or loss of coordination
- Difficulty walking or clumsiness
Long-term intake of 50 mg+ daily can cause symptoms in some people.
2. B6 is Usually Not Deficient
We generally get enough B6 from food (poultry, fish, bananas, potatoes, etc.), making supplementation unnecessary.
- Unlike B12 or folate, which are crucial for preventing anaemia and neurological issues, extra B6 doesn’t provide additional benefits unless there’s a true deficiency.
- B6 deficiency is rare, occurring mostly in cases of alcoholism, kidney disease, or medication-induced depletion.
3. Individual Supplementation is Better
If you need B6, taking it separately in a controlled dose is better than using a B-complex, which may contain excessive amounts.
- Allows flexibility to adjust intake based on individual needs.
- Some B-complex supplements far exceed daily requirements (often 50-100 mg or more), increasing the risk of toxicity.
4. No Clear Benefit of High-Dose B6 in a B-Complex
Some assume that "more is better," but that’s not the case with B6.
- High doses don’t boost energy like B12.
- While B6 supports neurotransmitter production, excess amounts don’t enhance cognitive function or mood in healthy individuals.
- Unlike other B vitamins, B6 isn’t rapidly excreted and can accumulate over time.
5. A Safer, Targeted B-Complex Formula Exists
FETTYL B Complex without B6 is designed for:
- People at risk of B6 toxicity (e.g., those with neuropathy or long-term supplementation).
- Those who get enough B6 from diet but need other B vitamins: B12, folate, B1, B2, B3, B5, and B7.
- Individuals with MTHFR mutations who need methylfolate and methylcobalamin without unnecessary B6.
B complex without B6 is a safer choice if:
- You are concerned about B6 toxicity or neuropathy
- You already get enough B6 from food
- You prefer to take B6 separately if needed
- You want to avoid excessive or unnecessary supplementation.