Anxiety and nutrition: 10 best anti-anxiety foods

Did you know that anxiety can be alleviated through nutrition? There are, in fact, some anti-anxiety foods that can help us fight the unwanted symptoms and manage everyday stress.

Every day we face situations that stress us out and make us anxious. Sometimes it may be such a difficult issue, that’s why we want to give you some other advice on how to battle anxiety and stress, for you to live a healthier life!

One of the main symptoms of anxiety is hunger, caused by eating disorders and by a daily diet poor in vitamins and nutrients. Being on an empty stomach for several hours lowers glycemia levels, which leads to a strong desire for sweets or junk food. In such situations food becomes one of the elements to keep anxiety away. Following we are going to show you a few foods that can help you feel better and keep both anxiety and stress away.

10 best anti-anxiety foods

#1 Fish

Fish is helpful to keep blood pressure levels optimal, as it is packed with omega-3 fatty acids, that lower the cardiovascular disease risk and regulate blood sugar levels. It is essential to eat fish at least once a week, because it contains large amounts of magnesium, promotes relaxation and reduces both stress and anxiety.

#2 Dairy products

Dairy products contain tryptophan, and amino acids promoting good mood and relaxation. It is contained in bananas and peanuts too.

“Most people have no idea how good their body is designed to feel.” Kevin Trudeau

#3 Almonds

Just like fish, almonds are loaded with large amounts of magnesium, and also protein and vitamins helping our body work properly. If you are in a bad mood or you are very hungry, you may want to eat almonds. They will help you feel relaxed and filled in.

#4 Bananas

Bananas are extremely rich in potassium, which boosts the nervous system and reduces anxiety. Whenever you feel like having a snack eating a banana will make you feel much better than chips and sweets.

# 5 Oats

If you want to reduce anxiety, you may want to eat oats, as they promote the production of hormones working as antidepressants in our body; what is more oats contain much magnesium and fiber

#6 Algae

Algae are packed with high levels of magnesium and tryptophan, that help feel relaxed. One example of algae is Spirulina – packed with protein, vitamin B, iron and known to fight stress, depression, and fatigue – perfect for when you’re feeling tired and down. You can eat it or take it as a supplement in tablet, powder or flake form.

#7 Chocolate

Plain chocolate (dark chocolate) proves helpful in soothing anxiety, as it reduces cortisol, the stress hormone. Chocolate also contains phenylethylamine (or PEA), which is the same chemical that our brain creates when we feel like we’re falling in love. Phenylethylamine encourages our brain to release feel-good endorphins, that is why it is a perfect anti-anxiety food.

#8 Orange leaves

Orange leaves work as sedatives and sleeping medications. Drinking a herbal tea of orange leaves before getting to sleep, may help sleep tighter and reduce anxiety and stress.

#9 Dried fruits

Dried fruits contain vitamin B, which promotes the serotonin production. As a brain chemical, serotonin helps feeling calm, regulates both body temperature and appetite. Serotonin is commonly known as the “good mood hormone” or the “feel-good hormone”. Its deficiency may lead to depression, panic attacks, head-aches, insomnia and hypertension.

#10 Peach

Peaches contain fiber, vitamins and minerals helping keep both anxiety and stress under control. If you feel agitated, eat peaches if the season is right. Two or three peaches will also make you feel filled in.

Anti-anxiety tips for daily living

• Abstain from coffee as much as possible and replace it with herbal or fruit tea.
• Drink enough water, as it is essential for the proper functioning of our body organs.

“Drinking water is like washing out your insides. The water will cleanse the system, fill you up, decrease your caloric load and improve the function of all your tissues.” Kevin R. Stone

• Schedule your meals. Meal timing is important for maintaining a good physical and mental health, so plan out your breakfasts, lunches and dinners.
• Take physical exercise (on a daily basis!), as your body and mind will benefit from that.
• Try eating more fruits and vegetables. They are rich in vitamins, minerals and precious enzymes that help us feel healthy and energized.
• Avoid drinking alcohol and don’t smoke – bad habits will eventually damage your body.

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