Tired of the never-ending cycle of work deadlines, jam-packed social schedules, and endless customer calls? Although these demands may seem relentless, there’s a way to fight back against the stress they generate: by embracing the power of healthy food choices.
Discover these extremely healthy stress-busting foods that can provide you with much-needed relief from the overwhelming burden of stress and anxiety.
Let’s get started.
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Dark Chocolate
Just a bite, not a whole bar!
Exciting news for those with a sweet tooth! Numerous studies have revealed that consuming dark chocolate can change your brainwave frequency, leading to improvements in memory and stress reduction. Scientists have discovered that consuming the equivalent of a medium-sized dark chocolate bar (40 grams) daily for two weeks can lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol, as well as the neurohormonal hormones.
While these findings hold true, it is crucial to select a high-quality bar that contains minimal sugar and consists of at least 70 per cent chocolate, as this ensures a higher concentration of cocoa.
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Tea
A steaming cup has the power to make everything better
Is there anything that a warm cup of tea can’t fix? A hot cup of tea can make you feel calm. It imparts a delightful feeling of contentment with every sip of chamomile tea. If you need a gentle dose of caffeine, green tea is the perfect choice. It offers benefits for memory, and cognitive function, and serves as an alternative to coffee.
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Pumpkin & Chia Seeds
The Magnesium Powerhouses
Packed with monounsaturated and omega-6 fats, as well as phosphorus and other vital nutrients, pumpkin seeds offer more than meets the eye. Research suggests that the plant compounds found in these little seeds can promote heart health and alleviate symptoms of prostate and urinary disorders.
For a fibre-packed, omega-3-rich delight, turn to chia seeds. Not only are they a fantastic source of high-quality protein, but they also boast an array of essential nutrients like magnesium and manganese. Studies have even shown that chia seeds may help regulate blood sugar levels and combat inflammation, a major risk factor for heart disease.
All these together contribute to deep relaxation and restful sleep.
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Nuts
No need to go nuts, eat them instead!
Everyone like nuts, right? Then why not make them a part of the daily diet? Packed with essential nutrients, B vitamins, and fatty acids, pistachios emerge as stress-busting heroes. They contain magnesium, known to conquer anxiety levels. Each crack of the shell brings a moment of pause, making them a mindful and diet-friendly snack.
If pistachios aren’t your preference, cashew nuts can be a smart alternative. Filled with omega-3s, protein, and zinc, they offer a delicious dose of stress relief.
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Yogurt
The Health Superstar
Studies reveal that yogurt is rich in Lactobacillus, a friendly bacterium that enhances the immune system and promotes better digestion. These bacteria have a transformative effect on our body’s microbiome, playing a vital role in alleviating symptoms of depression. It works its magic by converting stress hormones in the brain into mood-enhancing hormones, which make you feel good.
But that’s not all—yogurt is packed with essential nutrients like calcium, protein, vitamin B-12, vitamin B-2, riboflavin, potassium, and magnesium. These nutrients are crucial for maintaining overall health and well-being.
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Milk
The white knight of Nutrition
Brimming with essential nutrients like calcium, potassium, proteins, iodine, phosphorus, and vitamin B2, milk stands tall as one of the healthiest foods for everyone. A glass full of milk contains lactium, a protein that works wonders by reducing cortisol levels in the body. As a result, stress is kept at bay, and a sense of calm prevails.
Moreover, milk also contains tryptophan, an amino acid crucial for the synthesis of serotonin, that relaxes the mind and soothes the nerves.
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Fruits & Vegetables
Nature’s Stress-Busting Bounty
From carrots and bananas to apples and dark leafy greens like spinach, these natural wonders offer a plethora of benefits. Citrus fruits like grapefruits, lettuce, fresh berries, cucumbers, and kiwifruits also play a vital role in reducing stress and promoting emotional balance.
Eating a wide variety of fruits and vegetables leads to a stronger immune system and keeps you in tip-top shape to confront life’s challenges with a resilient body and a peaceful mind.
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Turmeric
The Golden Wonder
Turmeric belongs to the Curcuma longa family and contains a wealth of vitamins and healthy compounds that make it not only a flavorful spice but also a beneficial addition to your diet. Among these compounds, Curcumin takes centre stage.
Curcumin has garnered significant attention in medical research for its huge health benefits. From physical ailments to mental well-being, Curcumin has been the subject of groundbreaking studies, particularly in the realm of anxiety treatment.
