Why You May Want to Consider Vitamin B6 for Morning Sickness

Morning sickness is one of the most unpleasant symptoms of pregnancy, and anyone with experience knows it’s rarely confined to the morning. The nausea and vomiting that are often tell-tale signs of pregnancy should really be called “all-day sickness!”

The misnomer aside, for some, the nausea can be so severe that it interrupts their daily life, and many are desperate for some relief. Below, we look at one potential remedy–vitamin B6. We’ll talk about how Vitamin B6 for morning sickness and other natural ways that may help. 

What Causes Morning Sickness?

There are several theories as to what causes nausea and vomiting in pregnancy. The prevailing theory is hormonal changes, but it may also be related to genetics, gut health, and even certain lifestyle choices. 

Hormonal Changes

Several hormones rise dramatically during pregnancy, including estrogen, progesterone, and human gonadotropin hormone (HCG). During the first trimester, the body is responsible for producing these hormones as the placenta is forming. It is believed that the rapidly increasing hormone load is to blame for nausea and vomiting. Near the end of the first trimester, when the placenta takes over the production of hormones, nausea and vomiting typically subsides. 

Vitamin Deficiencies

Vitamin deficiencies - Nutrient deficiencies have been linked to more intense nausea and vomiting. While many vitamins can contribute, the most common deficiencies are vitamins B6 and B12, Magnesium, Zinc, and vitamin D.

Genetics

Some research suggests that certain genes are associated with more severe nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. The GDF15 and IGFBP7 genes are produced in large quantities by the placenta in early pregnancy. They have a receptor in an area of the brainstem linked to vomiting and reduced food intake. This receptor could be passed down from mother to baby, supporting the genetic theory.

Gut Health

We know gut health influences overall health in many ways, which may ring true for morning sickness. An opportunistic gut bacteria called H.pylori was found to be an independent risk factor for more frequent vomiting in pregnancy. We know gut health is critical before, during and after pregnancy.

Why Some Women Have Severe Morning Sickness

Women experience morning sickness differently. Some are lucky to have only mild nausea, while others have frequent vomiting. In up to 3% of pregnancies, morning sickness becomes severe. This is called hyperemesis gravidarum (HG). Recent research has identified a specific hormone that is associated with more severe morning sickness and HG. It found that a woman's sensitivity to the hormone dictates the severity of her symptoms.

The duration of morning sickness also varies by pregnancy.  Most women have relief by 14 weeks, but others experience symptoms for several more weeks or months.

How Does Vitamin B6 Help with Nausea?

Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) may help with morning sickness by helping to regulate the neurotransmitters (chemical messengers in the brain) that control digestion and nausea. In one study, researchers observed that pregnant women in their first trimester experiencing nausea and/or vomiting had lower levels of circulating vitamin B6. Most participants reported less nausea and vomiting after a daily regimen of 10mg of vitamin B6. Several other studies have followed in more recent years with similar results.

How Much Vitamin B6 for Morning Sickness?

The clinically studied dose of vitamin B6 for morning sickness is 25mg taken orally every eight hours (75mg per day). This amount is considered safe as it is less than the recommended upper limit of 100mg per day for pregnant women, as established by the Food and Nutrition Board (FNB) of the Institute of Medicine.

Vitamin B6 can be taken as tablets or capsules. It can also be included in prenatal vitamins, but always check the dosage. As always, check with your healthcare provider prior to adding any new supplement to your routine. Needed Prenatal Multi Capsules and Powder include 40mg of Vitamin B6. Needed Prenatal Multi Essentials include 15mg of vitamin B6.

Is B6 Enough or Just One Part of the Solution?

While vitamin B6 can be effective for morning sickness, it doesn’t work for everyone. Several other factors can influence the severity and length of morning sickness and how you respond to remedies. Some factors may be within your control– like staying hydrated, balancing your blood sugar, and getting sufficient rest. Other factors are outside of your control. Some women feel like they do everything “right,” and they still experience morning sickness. 

Think of vitamin B6 as one option to help manage morning sickness. Combining vitamin B6 with other natural remedies can help in cases where vitamin B6 alone doesn’t provide relief. 

Other Natural Remedies for Morning Sickness

Some other natural remedies for morning sickness include the following:

• Ginger: Ginger has been clinically studied for its effectiveness in managing nausea and vomiting. While teas, candies, and cookies infused with ginger are widely available, they often contain only small amounts of the ingredient. Capsules, on the other hand, provide a more concentrated dose and may be a better option if you’re comfortable swallowing pills.
• Eating frequent meals/snacks: Eating smaller amounts throughout the day can help balance blood sugar and manage nausea. 
• Staying hydrated: Hydrating gradually throughout the day and incorporating electrolyte supplements like Needed’s Hydration Support can help support nausea.
• Avoid triggers: Nausea triggers vary by person and can include things like strong smells or warm temperatures. Try to pinpoint these triggers so you can avoid or minimize them. For example, have a friend or partner prepare food if the sight or smell sets off your nausea.
• Prioritize protein: Protein consumption can also support blood sugar balance. Since meat, fish, and eggs are common aversions in early pregnancy, including protein powders like Needed’s Prenatal Collagen Protein can be a good way to support protein intake.
• Explore acupuncture and acupressure: Both acupuncture and acupressure have been clinically studied for their ability to alleviate morning sickness.

Bottom Line

Research suggests that vitamin B6 can help alleviate feelings of morning sickness. However, women experience pregnancy and symptoms differently, and vitamin B6 may not help all women in the same way. Consider combining vitamin B6 with other natural remedies for morning sickness, and always talk with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.