Birth Control: Issues with B6 are Just the Beginning

Woman taking oral contraceptives in most cases are unaware that there would be any serious side effects.  This is a common medication that is used regularly and therefore many people assume it to be safe with no side effects. 

This is NOT an accurate assumption.  Oral birth control causes many issues with the immune system, hormones and overall nutrient balance.  I have personally dealt with this and helped countless female clients (and couples) with this issue.

One of the major challenges in this circumstance is that these birth control pills can create a major depletion of vitamin B6.  Although the average woman needs at least 1.3 mg/day, they need at least 1.56 mg/day when taking birth control.¹ 

Although this isn’t a huge difference, many women take these medications for years so there is a cumulative effect over time.  The point I am making is twofold.  One, that B6 issues caused by taking these drugs are a major problem.  And second, the fact that woman (and doctors as well for that matter) aren’t aware of this issue and so it can go on undiagnosed for a long time.

Why does B6 matter?

B6 is a coenzyme involved in more than 100 enzyme reactions, mostly concerned with protein metabolism.  It also plays a role in cognitive development through the biosynthesis of neurotransmitters. It is also key in maintaining normal levels of homocysteine, an amino acid in the blood, involved in carbohydrate metabolism, immune function and hemoglobin formation.

Solutions:

The best option is to not take these drugs and use a safer, healthier, more body-honoring method of contraceptive. (Sorry for the spoiler but condoms are the safest.) 

The next best option is to optimize the diet and also supplement as needed.  I find that most people who have taken birth control for at least a few months almost always need to supplement with a B6 rich supplement such as Gallbladder-ND (2-3 tsp/day) or a capsule or two of B6.

But finally and most importantly, we need to EDUCATE the population to advocate for themselves and gain an understanding of how to look out for their own health.  You wouldn’t put water in the tank of your new car (even though it might be less expensive or more convenient), so don’t put toxic harmful substances in your body.  Get healthy now in a way that is holistic and supports your best health!

Please share with your friends who might need this message.

Resource:

1. Donald EA, Bosse TR. The vitamin B6 requirement in oral contraceptive users. II. Assessment by tryptophan metabolites, vitamin B6, and pyridoxic acid levels in urine. Am J Clin Nutr. 1979. doi:10.1093/ajcn/32.5.1024

Nothing said or implied in this post is intended to treat, cure, diagnose or prevent any disease.  It does not take the place of a qualified health care practitioner and is intended for educational purposes only.