While pyridoxine might sound like a harmful poisonous chemical, it’s an essential vitamin required by our bodies for healthy and proper function. Now, there’s absolutely no shame in admitting that you haven’t heard of this word; after all, it’s not a word that often comes up in conversation.

So what exactly is it? And what does it do?

What is pyridoxine?

Pyridoxine, also known as vitamin B6, is a crucial vitamin present in many different foods. Our bodies use vitamin B6 to promote a healthy immune system and metabolism, but it also plays a role in brain development during pregnancy and infancy. Fish, poultry, potatoes, and fruit are all great sources of pyridoxine.

But how much vitamin B6 do kids need?

Exactly how much pyridoxine does my child need?

Most children will get all of the pyridoxine they need from the foods they eat, but if you’re looking for exact figures, please see below.

From birth to 6 months, babies need 0.1 mg.

Infants aged 7 to 12 months require 0.3 mg.

Children aged 1 to 3 need 0.5 mg.

4 to 8-year-olds need 0.6 mg.

Children aged 9 to 13 need 1.0 mg.

Teenagers aged 14 to 18 need between 1.2 and 1.3 mg.

Those who have kidney problems or transplants, or suffer from autoimmune symptoms like Crohn’s disease, may require vitamin B6 supplements.

So, what happens if my child isn’t getting enough pyridoxine?

Those who don’t get enough pyridoxine can suffer from a range of symptoms, including

Anaemia.

Itchy rashes.

Scaly skin on the lips and cracks at the corners of the mouth.

A swollen tongue.

Depression.

Confusion.

A weak immune system.

Infants who don't get enough pyridoxine can become irritable, develop sensitive hearing, and even suffer from seizures.

What is pyridoxine, and how much does my child need?

Vitamin B6 is essential. Here's why kids need it.