- Etiology
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| VITAMIN | SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS | |
|---|---|---|
| DEFICIENCY | TOXICITY | |
| B 6 (pyridoxine) | Peripheral neuropathy, cheilosis, stomatitis, convulsions in infants, microcytic anemia, seborrheic dermatitis | “Stocking-glove” peripheral neuropathy, depressed deep tendon reflexes |
What it does: Vitamin B-9 is also called folate or folic acid. Folate is found naturally in foods. Folic acid is the synthetic form, often found in fortified, processed foods. Like most B vitamins, B-9 fosters the growth of red blood cells. It also reduces the risk of birth defects when consumed by pregnant women.
Where you get it: Vitamin B-9 can be found in:
- meats
- whole grains
- beets
- citrus fruits
- fish
- fortified cereals
- legumes
- green leafy vegetables
- liver and kidney
Make this spicy roasted beet hummus as a snack or appetizer.
Why you need it: Without enough folate, a person can develop diarrhea or anemia. Pregnant women with a folate deficiency could give birth to babies with defects. Excessive supplemental folic acid during pregnancy, however, may also lead to neurological problems in the baby.
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CASE SCENARIO A 34-year-old man is put on a 6-month course of isoniazid for purified protein derivative skin test conversion. He develops tingling in his hands and feet. What vitamin deficiency might he have?
Vitamin B 6 (pyridoxine)—remember to always give vitamin B 6 if prescribing isoniazid.