Feelings of stress and anxiety can be difficult on top of daily tasks at work or in school. While you may already know that exercise and good sleeping habits are essential to reducing these negative feelings, you’ll be surprised that what you regularly eat can have significant effects, as well. Read on to discover what you should be eating more of to soothe your stress and anxiety:
Turmeric
There has been a lot of buzz around turmeric’s healing abilities — and for good reason. The spice has been touted as an effective anti-inflammatory agent, and its anti-inflammatory properties can also help soothe stress and anxiety. In fact, Consumer Lab’s review of the most popular turmeric products notes how turmeric can even combat depression. Try it yourself by mixing turmeric into dishes like curries and casseroles, or by sprinkling some into smoothies and shakes.
Fatty Fish
If you’ve been stressed and anxious lately more than usual, it may be time to incorporate more seafood into your diet. Specifically, you should try eating fatty fish like salmon and sardines, as they have high omega-3 content. Researchers from Ohio State University found that omega-3 reduces symptoms of anxiety even in those without an anxiety disorder. Whether it’s in the form of sashimi salad or fish and chips, having fatty seafood at least twice or thrice a week can make a world of difference for your mental health.
Green Tea
Despite seeming like such a trivial activity, the process of brewing tea can be used as a time of relaxation and meditation. This calming ritual continues if you start to drink green tea regularly, as it has a host of positive effects on your mental state. Indeed, PrettyMe’s review of the Lean ‘N Green Slimming Coffee highlights green tea’s capacity to boost brain health by helping manage stress, anxiety, and even depression. The next time you’re feeling down in the dumps, take a moment to meditate and relax by brewing yourself a warm cup of soothing green tea.
Avocado
Most millennials’ favourite food also happens to be a literal source of happiness. Nutritionist Melissa Brunetti points out how avocado is rich in tryptophan, which helps in the production of serotonin, also known as the human feel-good chemical. Who would have thought that eating avocado with toast every morning is actually helping a whole generation manage their stress and anxiety?
Yoghurt
The live bacteria in yoghurt can do more than just keep your gut healthy, as it can also relieve feelings of anxiety. An article in The Telegraph reveals how yoghurt lowers levels of activity in parts of the brain that are responsible for emotion and pain, thus reducing stress and anxiety. Avoid the chemicals and flavourings that often come with yoghurt in grocery stores by opting to buy plain yoghurt. Feel free to mix in your favourite fruits like blueberries or apples to create a delicious snack that boosts your mental well-being.
For more on health and wellness through the right food, be sure to check out our nutrition articles here on Life and Fitness Magazine.