Feeling tired, moody, or mentally foggy lately?
Well, it might be the low Vitamin B6 levels to blame.
Vitamin B6 is an essential nutrient, also known as pyridoxine, and plays a significant role in metabolism and immune health. Besides, it even helps regulate your mood by producing happy hormones, including serotonin and dopamine.
Surprisingly, despite its importance, many people still do not get enough of this vital vitamin, which may lead to symptoms such as irritability, anemia, and depression.
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), adults need about 1.3–2 mg of Vitamin B6 daily. The good thing is that this nutrient is present in a variety of everyday foods, making it easy to incorporate into your daily diet.
Here are seven of the best Vitamin B6-rich foods you must include in your diet for good health.
Chicken Breast
Chicken breast is one of the richest sources of Vitamin B6 and provides about 0.5 mg per 100 grams of cooked meat.
In other words, it equals nearly 38 percent of an adult’s daily requirement. Grilled or baked chicken is a great protein-rich food.
You can also enjoy it shredded into soups, salads, or sandwiches.
Bananas
Bananas are often known for their potassium content. However, they are also an excellent source of Vitamin B6.
Did you know that a medium-sized banana contains approximately 0.4 mg, fulfilling about 30 percent of the daily recommended intake?
Whether you enjoy it blended into smoothies or mashed into oatmeal, its health benefits are incredible.
Potatoes
Yes, potatoes, too, are actually loaded with essential nutrients, including Vitamin B6.
In fact, a medium-sized baked potato contains about 0.4 mg, which fulfills about 30 percent of your daily requirements.
You can serve it roasted with olive oil and herbs, simply mashed with a bit of garlic, or diced into a vegetable stir-fry for a healthy meal.
Salmon
Salmon isn’t only rich in omega-3 fatty acids but is also an excellent source of Vitamin B6. Did you know that just a 100-gram serving of cooked salmon provides about 0.6 mg, which rounds up to 45 percent of an adult’s daily requirement?
The best part is that salmon pairs well with a variety of sides, from roasted vegetables to whole grains and your favorite sushi rolls as well.
Fortified Cereals
Many breakfast cereals are rich in essential vitamins, including Vitamin B6.
However, depending on the brand, a single serving can provide anywhere from 0.5 to 2 mg of B6.
You can simply enjoy it with milk or yogurt, together with nuts and seeds for added benefits and taste.
Avocados
Avocados provide about 0.3 mg of Vitamin B6 per 100 grams. Besides, avocados are also a great source of healthy fats essential for supporting good heart health and glowing skin.
The best part—spread it on whole-grain toast, blend it into guacamole, or toss it into salads; it tastes great every way.
Sunflower Seeds
Sunflower seeds are an excellent nutrient-dense source, with a 30-gram handful providing around 0.25 mg of Vitamin B6, nearly 20 percent of your daily needs.
Sprinkle it over salads, mix it into yogurt or oatmeal, or simply enjoy it as a snack—it offers a great boost of protein and healthy fats.
Conclusion
Vitamin B6 plays a big role in keeping your body and brain functioning smoothly. From chicken and salmon to bananas and avocados, there are multiple foods that can help fulfill your daily needs for good health.