Foods to Help with Anxiety and Stress

No one could have predicted how our world would change in 2020. With the pandemic, riots, and our struggling economy, levels of stress and anxiety are at an all time high. So, how do we manage stress and stay healthy?

A clean and healthy diet is an important step in helping manage anxiety and stress. During our stay at home orders, most of us tend to gravitate toward comfort foods like cake, cookies, candy, chips, and ice cream. In moderation, these foods may be ok, but in overload, they can lead to unhealthy levels of inflammation.

Try consuming a few of these healthy foods when you are feeling stressed and overwhelmed. These specific nutrient rich foods have been shown to help balance your mood and stress response.

1. Avocados-rich in B-vitamins for healthy nerves and brain cells.
2. Blueberries-contain antioxidants that have been shown to improve brain health and prevent anxiety.
3. Asparagus-rich in B-vitamins and antioxidants that can lift your spirits and ward off irritability.
4. Almonds-contain Vitamin E, which studies show its role in anxiety prevention.
5. Dark Chocolate-contains flavanols, which are antioxidants that improve blood flow to the brain. Eating dark chocolate has also been shown to increase serotonin levels, which helps reduce stress and anxiety.
6. Turkey-contains tryptophan, which is converted to serotonin.
7. Fish-specifically wild caught salmon, contain omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) that help regulate our neurotransmitters that keep us calm.
8. Green tea, chamomile tea, probiotic rich foods, and turmeric can also promote relaxation and calmness.

Along with maintaining a healthy balanced diet, there are many things you can do to help alleviate stress. Check out the tips in my previous blog. Exercise, sunshine, prayer, writing, yoga, meditation, and keeping in touch with friends and family can all help you cope with stress and anxiety.

Not all stress is bad, but it can become overwhelming. Listen to your body and take care of it. Times seem very tough now, but with a healthy body and mind, we can all get through this together.

How have you coped with stress in 2020? Comment below.

Stay healthy and happy!