Here are a few foods that top the list of stress busters:
1-Dark Leafy Greens*
Dark leafy greens like spinach, kale or swiss chard contain magnesium and B vitamins both of which assist in the reduction of stress.* Magnesium is necessary to help the body burn sugars for energy, calm the cells during periods of stress and is essential in the release and reabsorption of serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for positive mood. * In addition, low levels of B vitamins, such as B3, B5, B6, B9 and B12, have been linked to depression and anxiety.
Dark leafy greens also contain a variety of antioxidants to help reduce the impact of environmental stressors like pesticides, pollution and other toxins.
2-Avocados
When it comes to reducing stress, avocados are truly a superfood.* Avocados have more folate (Vitamin B9) than any other fruit.* In addition, avocados are rich in magnesium, B vitamins and Vitamin E all of which are important in helping to reduce stress levels.* Consider that they are rich in monounsaturated fats and Omega-3 fatty acids and avocados become a stress reducing rockstar.*
Just a 1/4 of an avocado is all you need to receive the relaxing benefits.
3-Oily Fish
Oily fish like salmon, tuna, halibut, and sardines contain Omega-3 fatty acids.* Studies show a depletion of fatty acids in the brain can be related to anxiety disorders.* Also, the ingestion of Omega-3s improves communication between the nerve cells which can help reduce stress in the body.* Additionally, oily fish are a good source of magnesium.* Consider the cardiovascular benefits derived from these fish and now you have another reason to add them to your diet.* Use them sparingly to prevent consuming too much mercury.
Don’t like fish?* Try flaxseed or nuts instead.
4-Complex Carbohydrates
Complex carbohydrates like oatmeal, brown rice, whole grains and even sweet potatoes help the brain produce serotonin.* Along with improving mood, serotonin stimulates concentration and focus which can become disrupted in times of stress.* Whole grains contain B vitamins and Vitamin E to help fend off free radicals and sweet potatoes are high in beta-carotene another antioxidant champion.
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And of course don’t forget dessert.
5-Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate helps reduce levels of stress hormones in the body including cortisol and catecholamines.* Also, dark chocolate has the double benefit of containing serotonin and aiding the body in producing more serotonin.* It also contains magnesium.* The darker the better to avoid the excess fat and sugar of the lighter chocolates.* Remember to enjoy it in small amounts to avoid the stress of weight gain.
What other foods have you heard of to help reduce either psychological stress/anxiety or physiological (aka oxidative) stress?
1-Dark Leafy Greens*
Dark leafy greens like spinach, kale or swiss chard contain magnesium and B vitamins both of which assist in the reduction of stress.* Magnesium is necessary to help the body burn sugars for energy, calm the cells during periods of stress and is essential in the release and reabsorption of serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for positive mood. * In addition, low levels of B vitamins, such as B3, B5, B6, B9 and B12, have been linked to depression and anxiety.
Dark leafy greens also contain a variety of antioxidants to help reduce the impact of environmental stressors like pesticides, pollution and other toxins.
2-Avocados
When it comes to reducing stress, avocados are truly a superfood.* Avocados have more folate (Vitamin B9) than any other fruit.* In addition, avocados are rich in magnesium, B vitamins and Vitamin E all of which are important in helping to reduce stress levels.* Consider that they are rich in monounsaturated fats and Omega-3 fatty acids and avocados become a stress reducing rockstar.*
Just a 1/4 of an avocado is all you need to receive the relaxing benefits.
3-Oily Fish
Oily fish like salmon, tuna, halibut, and sardines contain Omega-3 fatty acids.* Studies show a depletion of fatty acids in the brain can be related to anxiety disorders.* Also, the ingestion of Omega-3s improves communication between the nerve cells which can help reduce stress in the body.* Additionally, oily fish are a good source of magnesium.* Consider the cardiovascular benefits derived from these fish and now you have another reason to add them to your diet.* Use them sparingly to prevent consuming too much mercury.
Don’t like fish?* Try flaxseed or nuts instead.
4-Complex Carbohydrates
Complex carbohydrates like oatmeal, brown rice, whole grains and even sweet potatoes help the brain produce serotonin.* Along with improving mood, serotonin stimulates concentration and focus which can become disrupted in times of stress.* Whole grains contain B vitamins and Vitamin E to help fend off free radicals and sweet potatoes are high in beta-carotene another antioxidant champion.
*
And of course don’t forget dessert.
5-Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate helps reduce levels of stress hormones in the body including cortisol and catecholamines.* Also, dark chocolate has the double benefit of containing serotonin and aiding the body in producing more serotonin.* It also contains magnesium.* The darker the better to avoid the excess fat and sugar of the lighter chocolates.* Remember to enjoy it in small amounts to avoid the stress of weight gain.
What other foods have you heard of to help reduce either psychological stress/anxiety or physiological (aka oxidative) stress?