Health experts are raising alarms about an ingredient in energy drinks linked to an increasing number of serious blood toxicity cases. Vitamin B6, an essential nutrient found naturally in many foods, is safe in small amounts but can cause severe health issues when consumed excessively in manufactured forms.
The recommended daily intake of Vitamin B6 for adults is just 1.3 to 1.7 milligrams. However, many popular energy drinks contain significantly higher doses. For example, a 250-milliliter can of energy drink contains five milligrams of B6, a 500-milliliter can of another brand has 4.3 milligrams per serve, and some even contain as much as ten milligrams in a single 500-milliliter can.
George Institute food policy researcher Associate Professor Alexandra Jones explained, “There is no good reason why energy drinks need to have six times the recommended daily intake of B6 in them. While it’s unlikely that someone would exceed the upper limit from energy drinks alone, many individuals consume multiple products that contain high levels of B6, increasing the risk of toxicity.”
Vitamin B6 is added to thousands of supplements and fortified foods, including magnesium, zinc, breakfast cereals, and protein bars.
Recent blood test data obtained from Australian pathology labs revealed more than 2,700 cases of probable neuropathy and other health issues linked to B6 blood toxicity since January. Dr. Terri-Lynne South, a dietitian and general practitioner, highlighted that “typical consumption patterns mean people are getting much higher doses not just from individual products but from multiple sources simultaneously.”
As concerns mount, health authorities are calling for increased awareness and regulation to prevent further cases of B6-related health issues stemming from energy drink consumption.
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