You’ll probably notice that these foods are healthy foods in general – whether you are stressed or not. Stress lowers our bodies’ defenses, slows down and impairs its regular functions, so loading up on healthy, nutrient-dense foods gives us an extra edge to make sure our bodies can run as optimally as possible, even in the face of stress. So here they are … dig in and enjoy!
‘The foods you eat play an important role in how effectively your nervous system operates and consequently how relaxed or stress you feel throughout the day.‘
Here are 10 foods that you could include to help you manage your anxiety and stress. Remember uncontrolled stress can lead to detrimental effects on your health such as high blood pressure or mood disturbances and they can also lead you to make poor food choices which in turn can aggravate your health.
So we’re going to go over the 10 foods that you should be including in your diet right now to help calm you down and help keep you on your toes while you’re going through difficult times.
1. Almonds and pistachios
– Zinc to boost immune system
– Vitamin E to fight free radicals associated with stress
2. Asparagus
– Folic acid to stabilise mood
3. Avocado
– Potassium to prevent insomnia, nervousness, depression
4. Banana
– Potassium to prevent insomnia, nervousness, depression
– Magnesium to help you relax
5. Broccoli and spinach
– Vitamin B and iron to act as mood stabilisers
5. Fish
– Omega-3s to reduce anxiety and inflammation
– Vitamins B6 and B12 to help calm nerves and anxiety
– Magnesium to help you relax
6. Oatmeal
– Vitamin E to fight free radicals associated with stress
– Zinc to improve immune system
7. Oranges
– Vitamin C to strengthen immune system (weakens under stress)
8. Tea
– To balance stress hormones like cortisol
9. Yogurt
– Vitamin B to act as mood stabiliser
– Calcium to regulate nerves
As important as having nutritious foods like these in your diet is, one of the simplest ways to reduce stress quickly is to get some exercise. It can be a simple is heading outside and walking at a good pace for 10 minutes.
Combine regular exercise with these anti-stress and anxiety foods and it won’t be long before stress and tension start playing less and less of a part in your daily life.
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