Using Vitamin B6 for Gout Relief and Prevention

Vitamin B6, otherwise known as pyridoxine, is water-soluble vitamin that is part of the B vitamin family. B vitamins are essential in the support of adrenal function, maintaining the nervous system and are crucial for key metabolic processes. Vitamin B6 is necessary for proper growth and development of key organs such as the brain, nerves, skin and other parts of the body.

Vitamin B6 for Gout Relief and Prevention

Low levels of vitamin B6 is a common incident in rheumatoid arthritis patients. Additionally, medications such as Colchine, which is used for acute gout attacks are known to induce vitamin B6 deficiency, causing patients to be more likely to develop gout in the future. As an essential vitamin for organ development and growth, as well as being a critical part of the metabolism (breakdown of nutrients) process, vitamin B6 is necessary not just for gout relief and prevention, but for long term health as well.

Vitamin B6 Sources

Vitamin B6 can be easily obtained through a balanced and varied diet. Some good food sources of vitamin B6 include: fortified ready-to-eat cereal, poultry, tuna, salmon, milk, cheese, lentils, beans, spinach, carrots, brown rice, sunflower seeds, bananas and whole grain flour.

Vitamin B6 Supplement Variations

Vitamin B6 is available in the following supplement variation:

• Multivitamins
• Chewables
• Liquid Drops
• B Complex Vitamins
• Tablets
• Softgels

Most forms of vitamin B6 variations will provide the same amount of benefits and efficacy.

How to Use Vitamin B6 for Gout Relief and Prevention

The daily recommended amount of Vitamin B6 can be obtained through a balanced and varied diet, however if taking medications can cause vitamin B6 deficiency (such as gout medications), it is a good idea to receive your intake through supplements such as vitamins or vitamin B6 combination supplements. The recommended dosage amount for adults is 1.3 mg, for adults over 50, the recommended amount should be upped to 1.5 to 1.7 mg a day.

Precautions

Dietary supplements such as vitamin B6 are generally safe to take in moderated amounts. If you have concerns of taking vitamin B6, consult with your health care practitioner before use. Very high doses of 200mg or more per day can cause neurological disorders. Pregnant and breastfeeding women can take vitamin B6 at a daily recommended amount of 1.9 mg and 2.0 mg respectively.

References

Woolf K, Manore MM. Elevated plasma homocysteine and low vitamin B-6 status in nonsupplementing older women with rheumatoid arthritis. J Am Diet Assoc. 2008;108(3):443-453.