Do you often feel stressed or anxious due to your hectic lifestyle? How about adding superfoods to your diet to reduce stress and anxiety? They will improve your overall mood and save you from eating processed or high-fat food, which you usually reach out for during such times. High-fat foods are a temporary solution and do more harm than good to your body in the long run. Thus, try incorporating these superfoods into your diet to help with your stress and anxiety.
1. Blueberries
Yes, those tiny blueberries are a superfood that relieves stress and anxiety. Blueberry contains antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which can help reduce your symptoms. So, eat them as they are, or add them to your pancakes, oats, or desserts. Include them in your everyday diet to get their full benefits.
2. Salmon
Salmon is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. It contains EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). They help with your stress and anxiety by reducing the level of adrenaline and cortisol in your body.
3. Avocado
If you don’t eat avocado, then it’s high time you include this superfood in your diet. Regular consumption of avocados might help reduce stress and anxiety due to their high vitamin B content. So, with the intake of one medium-sized avocado, you get the benefits of Folate (B9), Niacin (B3), Pantothenic acid (B5), Riboflavin (B2), and Vitamin B6, which work together to relax you.
4. Citrus fruits
Next time you are at the farmers’ market, don’t hesitate to grab as many citrus fruits as possible. Lemons, oranges, grapefruits, and other citrus fruits are excellent sources of vitamin C. Various studies have shown that Vitamin C can significantly help reduce stress and anxiety as it helps in lowering cortisol levels (the hormone associated with stress).
5. Leafy Greens
Do you or your child avoid eating leafy greens? It would be best to incorporate it into your diet as often as possible. Add leafy greens to your favorite dishes to stay happier, calmer, and more energetic. Eating leafy greens will keep you upbeat and in a positive mood the next day.
6. Beans and legumes
Include beans and legumes in your daily diet to feel less stressed. As per several studies, the consumption of legumes and beans may have a positive impact on reducing anxiety and improving mood due to their nutrient composition. So, add chickpeas, beans, lentils, and other legumes to your diet as they contain antioxidants, vitamin B6, and magnesium, aiding in relieving stress and anxiety.
7. Complex carbs
Oats, quinoa, barley, whole wheat, or other whole grains are also considered to be great stress relievers. Well, the complex carbohydrates in them prevent you from feeling down by slowly releasing energy into the bloodstream. And since carbohydrates are known to increase serotonin levels, also called the “happy hormone,” they reduce stress and anxiety.
8. Chamomile tea
Why limit yourself to things to eat when you can also reduce stress and anxiety while drinking tea? However, not every tea does the trick, as it must be chamomile. Try drinking some chamomile tea as it has flavonoids (antioxidants) that might have anti-anxiety properties.
9. Seeds and nuts
Chia seeds are another excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids that have been shown to help with anxiety. Raw cashews and pumpkin seeds are also rich sources of zinc and magnesium simultaneously and can help boost your mood.
10. Bananas
Bananas can also help boost your mood as they are a good source of magnesium. They maintain a lower heart rate and also help in controlling anxiety, mood swings, and even restlessness.
So, next time you are at the farmers’ market or supermarket, fill your basket with these items if you often feel stressed out. These superfoods will help reduce your stress and anxiety. However, it is always advisable to consult your doctor first, especially if you are on any medication, undergoing some treatment, or prohibited from eating certain foods.
