10 Awesome Foods to Reduce Stress & Manage Anxiety

Stress affects almost every one of us in some way. It is a necessary component of contemporary living. However, a lot of stress can be harmful to our health and wellness, even while some stress is beneficial because it helps us stay motivated and focused.

Exercise, fresh air, meditation, and listening to music are all excellent ways to alleviate anxiety. But did you know that what we eat has a significant impact on how our bodies respond to stress?

By consuming certain foods, you may encourage your body to naturally relax and balance out those bothersome stress hormones. 

So, when deadlines are approaching or your kids have back-to-back soccer matches and you’re feeling stress, try one of these awesome foods that help to manage and reduce stress and anxiety:

Foods That Reduce Stress and Anxiety

1. Natural Teas

It is undeniable that a warm cup of tea helps you unwind and feel at one with the world. In the late afternoon or just before bed, try a relaxing herbal blend. 

My personal favorites are lemon balm, chamomile, ginger, and peppermint. If stress creates stomach aches, ginger and peppermint are very beneficial.

2. Dark Chocolate

Anyone who has chocolate feels better after consuming it. Dark chocolate, specifically 70% or more, is particularly effective at improving our emotions and lowering cortisol levels (a stress hormone). It has also been shown that several cocoa constituents improve our ability to think effectively.

Give yourself some chocolate of the highest caliber. Try to break off one or two squares and let each one melt on your lips without chewing. You'll be astonished by how full you feel after only a few nibbles!

3. Probiotics

Our digestive systems often freeze up while we are under stress. The fight, flight, or freeze response is a common involuntary reaction to perceived threats that cause physiological changes. Stress can thus contribute todigestive problems. Our brain and the gut are connected.

You can reduce indigestion by including probiotics in your diet. A forkful of sauerkraut or coconut yogurt may be added to a salad or your morning breakfast bowl.

An additional complement is a probiotic capsule. Although this is one of my favorite products, since everyone reacts differently, you might need to try various products.

4. Avocados

Potassium, vitamin B6, and healthy fats are abundant in avocados. B vitamins support healthy neuron and brain cell activity. Both the healthy fats and the potassium lower blood pressure, which, as we all know, rises when we're anxious and worried.

You can smear avocado on whole grain bread for breakfast or add it to your salad.

5. Green Leaf

What are the limitations of leafy greens? These superfoods are bursting with folate, a B vitamin that supports healthy nervous system function. Greens also contain a lot of magnesium (as are almonds, avocados, dark chocolate, and kefir). 

Surprisingly, the majority of us actually have insufficient levels of this mineral, which reduces irritation, and weariness, and encourages muscular relaxation. Consider adding a handful of spinach to your smoothie or occasionally serving sautéed kale for supper.

6. Blueberries

Stress affects our bodies at the cellular level. Vitamin C and antioxidants abound in blueberries. These nutrients support immune system health and cell regeneration, preventing the spread of contagious infections and colds.

Consider including some blueberries in your morning yogurt or smoothie. I also enjoy eating them as a double dose of stress-relieving superfood with a handful of almonds as an afternoon snack.

7. Oatmeals

When we eat whole grains, serotonin levels rise, which makes us feel better. It promotes a sense of tranquility and well-being by making us feel content and pleased. 

Additionally, eating whole grains along with lean protein and good fats helps keep you satiated for longer, preventing both stress and hunger.

Consider eating warm porridge to start your day or a stir-fry packed with vegetables and brown rice for the evening.

8. Almonds

Have you ever observed that when you're anxious, you get sick easily? 

Vitamin E, which is abundant in almonds and supports a strong immune system and the defense against free radical damage. They are also a good source of magnesium and B vitamins. Both anxiety and depression have been linked to both deficiencies.

When we're worried, many of us yearn for something crunchy, like almonds. The next time you want chips, try a handful of lightly salted roasted almonds for a similar fix. Just be aware of the serving sizes!

9. Ground eggs

Tryptophan and B vitamins, which support the nervous system, are both present in eggs. An amino acid called tryptophan aids in hormone balancing in the body. It helps soothe the body and mind and promotes sleep.

10. Legumes

Legumes are another excellent source of tryptophan. Incorporate chickpeas into your salad or prepare a batch of lentil soup to have on hand all week.