Chickpeas
“The biggest micronutrient deficiency in depression are the B vitamins, specifically vitamin B-6, which regulates the metabolism and breakdown of all neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine,” Bhatia says.
Researchers in a February 2013 review in Neurochemistry International revealed the importance of vitamin B in regulating mood, reporting it can even boost serotonin (a key mood-regulating brain chemical) levels in people with depression. Chickpeas are a major source of vitamin B, so “add them to your salad, pack hummus for lunch or make a falafel sandwich,” she says.