Stress and anxiety can really take a toll on your daily life, but did you know that what you eat can make a big difference? There are certain foods that can help you feel calmer and more relaxed. Adding these stress-busting options to your diet is an easy and tasty way to help improve your mood.
*The content of this article is not intended as medical advice.
Avocados
Avocados are rich in healthy fats, specifically monounsaturated fats, and B vitamins, which are essential for brain health. They help reduce stress by supporting proper nervous system function and maintaining healthy blood pressure levels. Additionally, their high potassium content helps manage stress-induced hypertension.
Blueberries
Blueberries are packed with antioxidants, particularly vitamin C and flavonoids, which help combat stress by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the brain. These antioxidants protect the brain from damage and promote healthy brain function, which can improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate contains magnesium, a mineral known for its calming properties. It also has flavonoids, which can help lower stress hormones and promote relaxation. Moreover, dark chocolate stimulates the production of endorphins and boosts serotonin levels, which are essential for mood enhancement and stress reduction.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is renowned for its calming effects, thanks to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It contains apigenin, an antioxidant that binds to certain receptors in your brain, helping to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. Drinking chamomile tea can also improve sleep quality, which is crucial for stress management.
Salmon
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help manage anxiety and improve mood. These fatty acids play a crucial role in brain health and can help reduce the levels of stress hormones like cortisol and adrenaline. Regular consumption of salmon can also improve heart health, which is often compromised during periods of high stress.
Almonds
Almonds are high in magnesium, a mineral that helps regulate cortisol levels, the stress hormone. They also provide a good source of healthy fats, protein, and fiber, contributing to stable blood sugar levels and overall stress reduction. Additionally, the vitamin E in almonds acts as an antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative stress.
Turmeric
Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Curcumin has been shown to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which can contribute to anxiety. Incorporating turmeric into your diet can also boost brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels, which support brain health and function.
Spinach
Spinach is packed with magnesium, which can help control cortisol levels and promote a sense of calm. It also contains folate, which aids in the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that regulates mood and promotes feelings of well-being. The iron in spinach supports healthy oxygen flow to the brain, which is essential for maintaining energy and reducing stress.
Yogurt
Yogurt with probiotics can support gut health, which is closely linked to brain health through the gut-brain axis. A healthy gut microbiome can improve mood and reduce anxiety. Probiotics in yogurt can also help produce gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and reduces stress responses.
Green Tea
Green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and reduces stress without causing drowsiness. L-theanine increases the production of calming neurotransmitters like GABA, dopamine, and serotonin, which help improve mood and reduce anxiety. The moderate amount of caffeine in green tea also enhances alertness and focus without the jittery effects of coffee.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a complex carbohydrate that can help stabilize blood sugar levels, preventing mood swings and reducing stress. It also promotes the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and promote a sense of well-being. The fiber in oatmeal supports digestive health, which is important for overall stress management.
12 Foods to Fight Acid Reflux Without a Prescription
Tired of popping antacids like candy? Acid reflux can be a real pain, but you don’t always need a prescription to keep it at bay. There are plenty of natural foods that can help soothe your symptoms and keep your digestion on track. Here are some of the best foods that can fight acid reflux and help you feel better without reaching for the medicine cabinet.
Read it Here: 12 Foods to Fight Acid Reflux Without a Prescription
12 Foods Causing Your Inflammation
Inflammation can be a real pain, literally and figuratively. While it’s a natural part of the body’s defense system, chronic inflammation can lead to serious health problems. Surprisingly, some everyday foods might be causing your inflammation to spike. Here’s a list of some foods that could be contributing to your discomfort and why you might want to cut back on them.
Read it Here: 12 Foods Causing Your Inflammation
*Select images provided by Depositphotos.
Gina Matsoukas is an AP syndicated writer. She is the founder, photographer and recipe developer of Running to the Kitchen — a food website focused on providing healthy, wholesome recipes using fresh and seasonal ingredients. Her work has been featured in numerous media outlets both digital and print, including MSN, Huffington post, Buzzfeed, Women’s Health and Food Network.