Vitamin B6 is a home remedy that some people like to use to manage nausea and prevent vomiting. Even though it’s not an approved treatment for digestive problems, this natural supplement is generally considered to be both effective and safe. For example, many pregnant women with morning sickness consider B6 and other natural remedies. But, before you start taking supplements, it’s smart to talk to your doctor and ask: can I take B6 alone for nausea?
How Vitamin B6 Helps with Nausea
Doctors and researchers are still trying to understand why B6 can have a positive impact onreducingnausea. There are several forms of B6, and it is still undetermined which form offers anti-nausea effects.
So far, the suggestion is that pyridoxal 5’-phosphate (PLP), which is a metabolite from vitamin B6, offers antiemetic benefits.
Can I Take Vitamin B6 During Pregnancy?
An estimated 74% of pregnant women experience vomiting and nausea during pregnancy, which is most common in the first trimester of pregnancy. Even though additional research is needed to understand the effects of vitamin B6 on pregnant women, initial reports suggest that this supplement is safe during pregnancy.
Talk to a healthcare expert to determine the ideal dosage and frequency. The most common dosage recommendations range between 10 – 25 mg, taken up to three times per day. This dose is considered safe for both the mother and the baby, although individual recommendations can vary depending on unique health considerations that need to be addressed.
Precautions About Vitamin B6 Overdosing
Keep in mind that just because a supplement is helpful doesn’t mean that more is better. In fact, taking too much Vitamin B6 can be dangerous.
If more than 100mg of vitamin B6 is taken daily, it could cause temporary nerve damage. So, it’s best to stick with lower dosages and take this supplement under the supervision of a doctor.
Forms of Vitamin B6
Even though vitamins are available over the counter at a local health food store, there are also prescription options that your doctor can provide. These fixed-dose medications include vitamin B6 and are FDA-approved.
When you plan to take vitamin B6 to help with nausea, pay attention to any other supplements, medications, or fortified foods that might also provide this vitamin. Vitamin B6 is often found in fortified foods, prenatal vitamins, and multivitamins. So, you’ll want to check all labels to avoid overdosing by getting vitamin B6 from multiple sources.
Natural food sources of vitamin B6 include:
- Wild salmon
- Tuna
- Turkey
- Chicken
- Beef
- Pork
- Apricots
- Raisins
- Prunes
- Spinach
- Avocado
- Banana
Organ meats, such as liver, are also high in vitamin B6. But these food sources are not recommended for pregnant women since they also have a high vitamin A content, which can increase the risk of toxicity.
Natural Relief from Nausea and Morning Sickness
Instead of asking, “Can I take B6 alone for nausea,” why not have several natural remedies on hand to help you manage the symptoms? Hana Tonic is an excellent option for people of all ages, with powerfulingredients that help to calm the digestive system, including B vitamins. Try it today!