3 min
06-June-2025
Vitamin B6, or pyridoxine, is a water-soluble vitamin that supports over 100 enzyme reactions in your body, especially those related to metabolism and brain health. From boosting immunity to balancing mood and aiding in red blood cell production, this vitamin plays an unsung yet vital role in your overall wellbeing.
And here’s the good news—it’s easy to include Vitamin B6 in your diet through commonly available foods. But if you’re relying solely on food and skipping regular health checks, you could still miss early signs of deficiency.
Proactive health tip: A comprehensive health insurance plan can cover routine check-ups and vitamin deficiency tests—so you’re not left unprotected when small imbalances lead to big issues.Compare health plans now that cover diagnostics and OPD.
Most importantly, unlike fat-soluble vitamins, B6 doesn’t get stored in your body. That means you need a steady dietary intake to maintain optimum levels—especially during pregnancy, stress, or illness.
Boosts brain health: Supports neurotransmitter function, improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Supports immune system: Enhances production of white blood cells that fight infections.
Helps in haemoglobin production: Reduces risk of anaemia and fatigue.
Balances hormonal activity: Especially useful for PMS and pregnancy-related symptoms.
Improves heart health: Reduces levels of homocysteine, lowering the risk of heart disease.
Aids metabolism: Helps in breaking down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins for energy.
Did you know? Early signs of B6 deficiency—like irritability, fatigue, or cracked lips—are often overlooked. Regular diagnostics can help, and many health insurance plans now include OPD benefits and preventive care.Explore OPD-inclusive plans for complete peace of mind.
Chicken breast – Excellent lean protein source with high B6 levels.
Tuna and salmon – Rich in omega-3 and B6.
Beef liver – One of the most concentrated sources of vitamin B6.
Chickpeas and lentils – Ideal for vegetarians and vegans.
Fortified cereals – Quick, convenient, and nutrient-dense.
Bananas – A fruit-based B6 option, perfect for on-the-go snacking.
Potatoes and sweet potatoes – High in complex carbs and vitamin B6.
And here’s the good news—it’s easy to include Vitamin B6 in your diet through commonly available foods. But if you’re relying solely on food and skipping regular health checks, you could still miss early signs of deficiency.
Proactive health tip: A comprehensive health insurance plan can cover routine check-ups and vitamin deficiency tests—so you’re not left unprotected when small imbalances lead to big issues.Compare health plans now that cover diagnostics and OPD.
What is Vitamin B6? Fruits and vegetables that pack a punch
Vitamin B6 is naturally found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, and protein-rich foods. It supports brain development and function, helps regulate mood-related hormones like serotonin and dopamine, and improves immune responses.Most importantly, unlike fat-soluble vitamins, B6 doesn’t get stored in your body. That means you need a steady dietary intake to maintain optimum levels—especially during pregnancy, stress, or illness.
Why is it important to consume Vitamin B6?
Vitamin B6 is not just "good to have"—it's essential for multiple life-sustaining processes. Here's why your diet should always include B6-rich foods:Boosts brain health: Supports neurotransmitter function, improving mood and reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Supports immune system: Enhances production of white blood cells that fight infections.
Helps in haemoglobin production: Reduces risk of anaemia and fatigue.
Balances hormonal activity: Especially useful for PMS and pregnancy-related symptoms.
Improves heart health: Reduces levels of homocysteine, lowering the risk of heart disease.
Aids metabolism: Helps in breaking down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins for energy.
Did you know? Early signs of B6 deficiency—like irritability, fatigue, or cracked lips—are often overlooked. Regular diagnostics can help, and many health insurance plans now include OPD benefits and preventive care.Explore OPD-inclusive plans for complete peace of mind.
Best Vitamin B6 foods
Your daily B6 requirement can easily be met through a balanced diet. Here are some high-quality sources you should include in your meals:Chicken breast – Excellent lean protein source with high B6 levels.
Tuna and salmon – Rich in omega-3 and B6.
Beef liver – One of the most concentrated sources of vitamin B6.
Chickpeas and lentils – Ideal for vegetarians and vegans.
Fortified cereals – Quick, convenient, and nutrient-dense.
Bananas – A fruit-based B6 option, perfect for on-the-go snacking.
Potatoes and sweet potatoes – High in complex carbs and vitamin B6.