Hidden Hunger: The Surprising Prevalence of Vitamin B6 Deficiency in Obese Patients

Context/Objective: Despite an excess of dietary calorie intake, nutritional deficiencies often occur in obese patients due to various risk factors associated with the particular nutrient deficiency. The obesity-related comorbidities and the use of weight management interventions can also contribute to nutrient imbalances thus a careful understanding of the mechanisms underlying nutritional deficiencies in obesity is crucial for designing effective interventions.Understanding vitamin B6 deficiency in the obese patient may guide therapeutic weight management.

Study design and Analysis: Cross sectional observational analysis.

Setting: Grace Health, Battle Creek, MI

Population Studied: 134 patients with vitamin B6 deficiency classified according to their body mass index (BMI).

Outcome Measures: prevalence of overweight and obese patients with vitamin B6 deficiency in the population studied.

Results: Of the 134 patients, the mean age was calculated to be 42 years‥ Among this population, 33 patients were men (24.63%) and 101 (75.37%) were women. 13 patients (10%) had BMI < 20 kg/m², 65 patients (49%) had BMI between 20 and 30 kg/m², 30 patients (22%) had BMI above 30 kg/m² but less than 40 kg/m², whereas 26 patients (19%) were found to have BMI > 40 kg/m².

Conclusions: Obesity-related nutritional deficiencies stem from inadequate intake of essential nutrients, impaired absorption, altered metabolism, and the prevalence of unhealthy dietary patterns. Our study explores a population with obesity in which there is significant representation of individuals with vitamin B6 deficiency, highlighting the complex interplay of physiological, behavioral, and environmental factors.

Learning points:

1. Recognize that obesity is associated with micronutrient deficiencies.

2. Show distribution of vitamin B6 deficiency in the obese population.

3. Consider effects of vitamin deficiencies in obese patients.