Large doses over long periods cause liver damage. It also plays roles in the use of fats in the body and in the formation of red blood cells. Pyridoxine deficiency is characterized by skin disorders, cracks at the mouth corners, smooth tongue, convulsions, dizziness, nausea, anemia, and kidney stones. Pyridoxine is needed in proportion to the amount of protein consumed. Cobalamin deficiency is often due to the inability of the stomach to produce glycoprotein, which aids in the absorption of this vitamin.
Cobalamin is obtained only from animal sources-liver, kidneys, meat, fish, eggs, and milk.
Vegetarians are advised to take vitamin B12 supplements. The U.S. Public Health Service recommends that women of child-bearing age take 0.4 mg of folic acid daily. Women should continue to take that dose through the first three months of pregnancy. The RDA for men is 200 mcg and women is 180 mcg. Folic acid is effective in the treatment of certain anemias and sprue.