What is Vitamin B6?

In short

Vitamin B6 is a water-soluble vitamin. The name covers several related substances, including pyridoxine.

What does the body need it for?

Vitamin B6 contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism. It contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system and the immune system.

Where is it found?

• Banana (1 medium banana (approx. 120 g without pe)0.44 mg
• Chicken breast (150 g)0.75 mg

How much is good?

NRV (EU reference value)

1.4 mg

Too much

Safe upper limit (EFSA)

12 mg

Maximum per daily dose (BfR)

3.5 mg

Too much vitamin B6 over a long period can damage nerves. EFSA's upper intake level for adults is 12 mg daily from all sources.

Other names

Pyridoxin, Pyridoxal, Pyridoxamin, Pyridoxine, Vitamin B6, Vitamina B6, Piridoxina

Source

EU Regulation 432/2012; EFSA 2023