Are you stressed out? When you are stressed, what do you eat?
Here some tips on eating to keep in mind the next time you’re stressed out. Eating may be a stay-calm trick. I’m not talking about stuffing yourself with your typical go-to comfort food, such as mac and cheese, or French fries, because that will only leave you feeling guilty and even more anxious. Instead, feed your body with one or more of these 10 superfoods to feel at ease fast.
Asparagus – yes it makes your pee smell but depression has been linked to low levels of folic acid, and this vegetable boosts this mood-enhancing nutrient. A single cup provides two-thirds of your daily value.
Avocado – Avocados are rich in stress-relieving B vitamins and are great for healthy nerves and brain cells. They’re also high in monounsaturated fat and potassium, which help lower blood pressure.
Blueberries – When we’re stressed, our bodies need vitamin C and antioxidants to help repair and protect cells. Just a handful pack a powerful punch of antioxidants and vitamin C, making them mighty stress-busters.
Almonds – Are rich in vitamins B2 and E. Both of which help bolster the immune system during times of stress. Just a quarter cup of almonds each day does the trick.
Oranges – Vitamin C is another vitamin known to lower blood pressure and the stress hormone cortisol. For a quick burst of vitamin C, simply eat a whole orange or drink a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice without added sugar.
Rainbow Trout or Salmon – A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids helps keep cortisol and adrenaline from spiking when you’re feeling tense. Consuming 4 ounces at least three times a week goes a long way towards protecting your heart when those stress hormones are surging
Spinach – Leafy greens may not be your idea of comfort food, but spinach can have a comforting effect. Spinach is packed with magnesium, the mineral that helps regulate cortisol levels and promote feelings of wellbeing.
Turkey – That sleepy feeling you get after eating Thanksgiving dinner is due to the amino acid tryptophan found in turkey. Tryptophan signals the brain to release the feel-good chemical serotonin, which promotes calmness and even tiredness
Oatmeal – Is another food that helps get the calm-inducing hormone serotonin flowing. Go with steel-cut, old fashioned oats that require cooking instead of instant oatmeal. Why? Coarse oats are higher in fiber and so they take longer to digest (meaning their calming effect actually lasts longer)