Nutrition and Stress: The Best Foods to Naturally Reduce Stress

Have you ever noticed after being stressed you mostly tend to eat junk?
That’s the body’s way of coping to the increased levels of stress.

Do you know that eating the right kinds of food could improve your ability to cope with stress? And you won’t need to binge eat. 

Some foods encourage relaxation, lower anxiety, and support brain function. 

Let’s discuss the different foods which after eating can act as a natural stress reliever for you.

1. Magnesium:
Magnesium lowers cortisol which is a stress hormone, magnesium also promotes brain function, and relieves muscle tension.  Magnesium deficiency may cause restlessness and anxiety.

Best Sources of Magnesium:

• Dark chocolate
• almonds, cashews, peanuts and other Nuts
• spinach, kale and other green leafy vegetables.
• Whole grains (brown rice, quinoa)

2. Vitamin B Complex
B vitamins such as B6, B9 (folate), and B12, help in mood and energy regulation. serotonin, The “happy hormone,” which prevents stress, is also produced by the help of b vitamins.

Best Sources of B Vitamins:

• Eggs and dairy
• Whole grains (oats, brown rice)
• Bananas and avocados
• Leafy greens and beans

3. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
It is an excellent way for stress management as it reduces inflammation and supports brain health. It is required to maintain a good mood and reduce anxiety.

Best Sources of Omega-3:

• salmon, sardines, mackerel are some examples of fatty fish
• Chia seeds and flaxseeds
• Walnuts

4. Vitamin C
It is essential for the production of dopamine and strengthens the immune system which is weakened by increased levels of stress

Best Sources of Vitamin C:

• Citrus fruits such as oranges, lemons, kiwi
• Strawberries
• Tomatoes

5. Protein
Protein keeps blood sugar stable when you skip meals preventing energy crashes
Best Sources of Protein:

• Lean meats (chicken, turkey)
• Eggs
• Greek yogurt
• Lentils and chickpeas

6. Probiotics
A healthy gut improves your mood while an imbalance causes stress to the body.
Best Sources of Probiotics:

• Yogurt
• Fermented foods (kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir)
• Kombucha

Key Takeaway 
Incorporation of such foods in the right amounts will keep all the stress eating away