Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)

What is a Vitamin B6 test?

The blood's amount of vitamin B6 is measured by a vitamin B6 test. Pyridoxal phosphate (PLP) or Pyridoxine is another name for vitamin B6. Although it is typically present in adequate amounts in food, there is a potential Vitamin B6 shortage if a person needs other B complex vitamins.

The vitamin B6 test measures the blood levels of B6. B complex vitamins include vitamin B6, which is one of them. Although this vitamin is often obtained through diet, those lacking in other B complex vitamins may also need to improve. A vitamin B6 the deficit is more likely in persons with autoimmune, intestinal, liver, or kidney problems. Additionally, those who smoke, are overweight, are alcoholics, or are pregnant may also be deficient in this vitamin.

The body processes protein, carbs, and lipids with the help of vitamin B6. Additionally, it is necessary for the immune system and nervous systems to work correctly. Further, it is claimed to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities that aid in preventing chronic diseases, including cancer and heart disease.

Foods like potatoes, bananas, chickpeas, cereal grains and flour, vegetables (including peas, spinach, and carrots), seeds and nuts, legumes, milk, and cheese are all excellent sources of vitamin B6. Additionally, it can be found in nutrition bars and fortified cereals. According to recommendations, adults need about 1.7mg of vitamin B6 each day. For individuals who solely consume plant-based diets, extra foods are necessary to provide the body with the required amounts of vitamin B6.

Who Should Get a Vitamin B6Test?

The Vitamin B6 test measures the levels of Vitamin B6 in blood. Vitamin B6 belongs to the Vitamin B complex group. Generally, this vitamin is found in the diet, but its deficiency can be found in people deficient in other B complex vitamins. The chances of vitamin B6 deficiency are more in people having liver, kidney, digestive, or autoimmune diseases. Along with that, people who are smokers, overweight, alcoholics, and pregnant women can also have a deficiency of this vitamin. Vitamin B6 deficiency is associated with microcytic anemia, electro-encephalographic abnormalities, dermatitis with cheilosis (scaling on the lips and cracks at the corners of the mouth) and glossitis (swollen tongue), depression and confusion, and weakened immune function.

The Vitamin B6 test is done in case of signs and symptoms such as:

• Skin rashes
• Cracked and sore lips
• Sore, glossy tongue
• Mood swings
• Weakened immune function
• Tiredness and low energy
• Tingling and pain in hands and feet
• Seizures

Why Get Tested for Vitamin B6?

The chances of vitamin B6 deficiency are more in people having liver, kidney, digestive, or autoimmune diseases. Along with that, people who are smokers, overweight, alcoholics, and pregnant women can also have a deficiency of this vitamin. 

Sample Required

The healthcare provider takes a blood sample from the arm. The site where the blood is to be withdrawn is cleaned with a swab of rubbing alcohol. This is followed by inserting a small needle with a tube attached to it for collecting blood. Once sufficient blood for analysis is withdrawn, the hand is removed. The site is then covered with a gauze pad.

Is Fasting Required Before a Vitamin B6 Test?

 A complete Vitamin B6 Test requires 10-12 hours of fasting. However, one should fast for 8 hours or overnight for natural vitamin B6 nutritional status. For more information, it is better to consult the lab technician before taking a Vitamin
B6 Test.