It is hard-pressed to find an adult today that isn’t under some level of stress. Food can be more than just nutrition- certain foods can act almost “medicinal” when consumed at the right times. Your diet plays a bit role in the way you feel, so it makes sense that a well-rounded diet can help you feel less stressed in the long run. Not only have these 11 foods been proven to make you feel calmer, but they also reduce feelings of anxiety.
11 Foods That Fight Stress & Reduce Anxiety
Oranges
Oranges are high in vitamin C that helps boost your immunity and is also an antioxidant, which fights free radicals. Stress tends to increase free radical load on the body. Oranges also have significant amounts of vtiamins A and B as well as a variety of healthy minerals.
Avocados
Avocados are a good choice because they have good fats. The mono-unsaturated fats as well as potassium in avocados help lower blood pressure. Half an avocado has more potassium than a medium-sized banana. Avocados are also rich in B vitamins, such as B6 and folate, which naturally lower your stress levels fast.
Spinach
Dark green vegetables like spinach are rich in A, B and C vitamins. Spinach also contains a good amount of minerals like calcium, potassium, magnesium and phosphorus that help reduce stress hormones in the body and stabilize mood.
Green Tea
Green tea contains theanine, which increases the brain’s output of alpha waves that promotes relaxation and reduces the output of beta waves that promotes tension. According to a 2009 study, drinking five cups of the tea each day could reduce stress by 20%.
Sunflower seeds
Sunflower seeds are packed with tryptophan, the amino acid used by the brain to make the feel-good hormone serotonin. They’ve also got magnesium, which helps ease anxiety and promote feelings of calm.
Dark Leafy Greens
Dark leafy greens contain high levels of magnesium, a critical mineral for managing stress. Stress depletes your body of magnesium, and this can lead to headaches, anxiety, and restlessness.
Nuts
Nuts, including almonds, cashews, and walnuts contain zinc, a mineral that plays a crucial role in modulating the way the brain and body respond to stress. They’re also a good source of stress-busting magnesium.
Chia Seeds
Chia Seeds are a great source of Magnesium, a critical mineral that fights off stress and can mitigate depression. Plus they contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which provide anti-inflammatory benefits to the brain, resulting in lower levels of stress and anxiety.
Ginger
Ginger root has also enjoyed a long history as a natural medicine. It has the ability to relieve tension headaches and pain, which helps drop stress in that regard. Ginger’s flavor can strike the palate roughly so if you want to try it for stress relief consider a ginger tea or turning to aromatherapy.
Peaches
The potassium in peaches helps lower blood pressure. As well, the fruit contains beta-carotene and antioxidants, which can help reduce certain cancer risks. A great choice when you’re craving something sweet.
Asparagus
Asparagus is a veggie high in folate, a calming B-complex vitamin known to reduce feelings stress and anxiety and produce dopamine for the brain. Enjoy cooked or raw asparagus to reap the benefits of this powerful food.
Sources:
– http://www.redbookmag.com/body/healthy-eating/advice/g2458/stress-relieving-foods/
– http://www.rd.com/health/healthy-eating/11-healthy-ways-to-destress-with-food/
– http://www.bendsource.com/bend/foods-to-fight-stress-and-rejuvenate-skin/Event?oid=2616599
