If there is one thing we’re certain of in life, it’s stress. Whether you’re having relationship problems, a tough time at work, or trying to juggle a busy work and social life, stress is something that we all endure. While some people have a good grip on it, others struggle to keep afloat. Whatever category you fit into, there are certain actions you can take that can alleviate stress and anxiety. One of which being what food you put onto your plate.
We know diet plays a big part in our general health and wellbeing. However, you’ll be surprised at how what you eat can impact your stress levels. Here are some food options that can help alleviate stress and keep you feeling positive.
Dark Chocolate
There are powerful health benefits attached to eating dark chocolate. For starters, dark chocolate is a brilliant source of antioxidants called flavonoids. These are believed to alleviate stress. Dark chocolate may also help in lowering blood pressure, improving blood flow, and reducing your risk of heart disease. Dark chocolate also provides anti-inflammatory benefits that can help in preventing blood clots. For those who are lovers of white and milk chocolate, making the switch to dark could prove useful in reducing stress and anxiety.
CBD
You will have had to have been living under a rock in the last few years if you’ve not heard of CBD. It feels like just about everywhere we see CBD advertised. CBD products claim to help lower stress, anxiety, and insomnia. For those looking to venture into the CBD business world, you can order wholesale CBD-infused candy, gummies, and edibles CBD from JM Wholesale. Their CBD products contain minimal amounts of THC, meaning customers can reap all the health benefits from the product, such as potentially lowering stress.
Avocados
Avocados have grown in popularity in recent years. As a firm breakfast staple for many, switching up your routine and having avocado on toast could be hugely beneficial in terms of lowering stress. This is because the fruit offers omega-3 fatty acids. These healthy essential acids can lower stress and anxiety, as well as boost your mood and concentration. Avocados are also rich in numerous nutrients, like fibre, healthy fats, vitamin E, and magnesium. There are lots of delicious ways to eat an avocado too, such as throwing one into a tasty salad, mixing it into scrambled egg, or even making your own soup.
Bananas
Bananas are packed with potassium. This is a mineral that can help in reducing stress and tension. This fruit is also brilliant for soothing the mind as bananas are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that boosts the formation of serotonin and melatonin. The B vitamins found in a banana like folate is key to the production of serotonin. For an extra stress-busting boost, top a banana with peanut, almond, or cashew butter.
Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are full of nutrients and are packed with powerful antioxidants. It’s believed eating pumping seeds can help solve dietary deficiencies and may offer protection against various health problems. Pumpkin seeds may help in improving heart health, boosting sleep quality, and reducing stress. They are also a great source of the mineral zinc which can effectively reduce inflammation, lower your risk of age-related diseases, and speed up the wound healing process.
Spinach
If you’ve ever caught a Popeye episode, you’ll know only too well how much he loves spinach. There’s a good reason for it too. Spinach has an array of minerals and vitamins that support your immune system, like magnesium and vitamin E. What’s more, spinach contains folate. This produces dopamine in the brain that helps maintain a sense of calm. Eating spinach can also boost hydration, curb appetite, help prevent osteoporosis, and keeps eyes healthy.
Broccoli
Broccoli is filled with many vitamins, such as stress-fighting B vitamins and folic acid. Such nutrients can be useful in relieving stress, anxiety, and depression. To get the best out of broccoli, enjoying it raw in a salad is key. There are a range of other health benefits attached to eating broccoli. These include supporting hormonal balance, boosting your immune system, and being good for heart health.
Eggs
Whether you like them fried, boiled, scrambled, or poached, eggs are another food that are great for relieving stress. Eggs contain tryptophan that helps in creating serotonin. To get your day off to a good start and help in combatting stress, including eggs on your breakfast menu isn’t a bad idea.
Too much stress can severely impact your day-to-day life and put strains on relationships. Having a clear head and focus is important for getting the most out of life. If you’re under pressure and are struggling to keep stress levels at bay, making minor changes to your diet can yield brilliant results.