Stressed? Eating These 7 Foods Could Help
Whenever I see an online article about foods that offer miraculous health benefits, I click on it. I’m always curious to see how many of the foods are actually recognizable or if I’m already eating them.
When I recently came across a list of seven healthy foods that can help fight stress from Well + Good, I couldn’t resist. I had to click and see what exotic delicacies would keep me out of a straitjacket.
Avocado
Avocado is high in fiber, which can help control blood sugar—preventing the spikes and crashes that can affect one’s mood and anxiety—and is rich in brain-supporting nutrients.
Yogurt:
“The probiotics in yogurt may help repair the inflammation that stress can cause to your gut,” McDowell says. “Plus, it’s a good source of calcium and protein.”
Maca:
It supports your adrenal glands, which manage your hormonal response to stress and help you cope with anxiety and fatigue. It has a slightly nutty taste and is often sold in powder form, so it’s best to mix it in something. While it hasn’t been a popular supplement for very long, it turns out that maca is readily available at health food stores and pharmacies all over Charlotte. Of course, Walmart and Amazon sell it online, too.
Oranges:
“Vitamin C (of which oranges have a lot), has been found to lower anxiety levels, which is often triggered by stress. It also helps to keep your immune system on point, something that can definitely weaken in times of stress. Even the smell of citrus is linked to feeling happier, so just the act of eating oranges (or smelling some citrus essential oil) could help calm your nerves.”
Sweet Potatoes
“Complex carbs, like sweet potatoes, also work to keep blood sugar levels steady, which is essential to staying clear-minded during stressful times. They also cause the brain to amp up its production of happiness-boosting serotonin.”
Oats
“Think of oats as a good supporting player in your fight against stress. Like avocados, oats are high in fiber, which can help keep your blood sugar even (along with your mood). They’re also rich in B vitamins, which are crucial for maintaining energy and improving brain health.”
Dark Chocolate
You read that right. Chocolate can be a healthy snack to turn to in times of stress—as long as you keep it dark chocolate. “In 2018, Loma Linda University shared research showing that dark chocolate—with at least 70 percent cacao—can have positive effects on stress levels and mood,” McDowell pointed out.
If you’re interested in reading more about why these foods can be helpful in managing stress, click here.
