Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, plays an important role in maintaining heart health. Add foods rich in vitamin B6 to your diet to reduce your risk of heart disease and improve your overall health.
Vitamin B6 aids in the production of neurotransmitters, supports brain function, and helps the body convert food into energy. Vitamin B6 is important in controlling homocysteine levels in the blood, as high levels of this chemical have been linked to cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes.
Maintaining heart health is important for overall health, and adding foods rich in vitamin B6 to your diet can play an important role in this.
Here are some foods rich in vitamin B6 that are good for people with heart disease:
1. Salmon
Salmon is an excellent source of vitamin B6, providing a significant amount of the recommended daily intake. This fish is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to reduce inflammation, reducing the risk of heart disease.
Eating salmon regularly can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and prevent plaque buildup in the arteries.
2. Chicken Breast
Chicken breast is a lean, low-fat source of protein and high in vitamin B6. One serving of grilled chicken breast provides about 30% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin B6. Plus, its low fat content makes it a heart-healthy choice.
Chicken breast is a lean, low-fat source of protein and high in vitamin B6.
3. Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a plant source of vitamin B6. One cup of cooked chickpeas contains about 0.6 mg of vitamin B6, which is nearly 35% of the daily requirement.
The low glycemic index makes chickpeas a great choice for controlling blood sugar levels and promoting heart health.
4. Bananas
Bananas are a convenient source of vitamin B6 and a delicious, nutritious fruit. One medium banana provides about 0.4 mg of vitamin B6. The natural sugars in bananas provide a quick boost of energy, while the fiber content aids digestion and helps control blood sugar levels.
Adding bananas to your daily diet can help improve your heart health and overall health.
5. Avocados
Avocados are high in healthy fats and are an excellent source of vitamin B6. One avocado contains about 0.4 mg of vitamin B6. The monounsaturated fats in avocados help lower bad cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
6. Spinach
Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that is rich in vitamin B6. One cup of cooked spinach provides about 0.2 mg of vitamin B6. Spinach is also rich in other essential nutrients such as iron, magnesium, and folate. The antioxidants in spinach help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting heart health.
7. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are also rich in vitamin B6. One medium-sized sweet potato provides about 0.3 mg of vitamin B6. They are also rich in fiber, vitamins such as A and C, and the mineral potassium. This combination of nutrients helps regulate blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and support heart health.