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It is no secret that stress can cause adverse effects on our lives. Chronic stress can lead to many health problems, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and depression. Did you know there are some foods that can lower stress levels? Yes, food can help to reduce the amount of stress we feel. In fact, certain foods contain nutrients that may help to promote calmness and relaxation. Below we take a look at these stress-relieving foods.
Foods with tryptophan may reduce stress
Tryptophan is an amino acid that the body needs to create proteins. It can also be found in some foods, like turkey and eggs. When tryptophan enters the body, it helps the body produce serotonin. Serotonin is a chemical that has a calming effect on the body. People often say they feel sleepy after eating a big meal.
Some people take supplements that contain tryptophan to help them sleep better. But it’s not clear if this is effective. More research is needed to know for sure.
Fight stress with foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids
A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids has been shown to impact mood and anxiety levels positively. Omega-3s are polyunsaturated fat found in abundance in fish, nuts, and seeds.
Several studies have shown that omega-3 supplementation can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. One study showed that omega-3s were as effective as an antidepressant drug in treating patients with major depressive disorder (MDD).
Omega-3 fatty acids work by reducing inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation has been linked to both depression and anxiety. By reducing inflammation, omega-3s can help improve mood and reduce anxiety levels.
Magnesium-rich foods ease stress
Magnesium is an essential mineral for the human body and has many benefits. One of those benefits is that it can help alleviate stress and promote relaxation. Magnesium-rich foods may help increase magnesium levels in the body, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. Here are some magnesium-rich foods that can help you relax:
1. Spinach – Spinach is a nutritious and leafy green vegetable packed with magnesium. Just one cup of spinach contains around 157 mg.
2. Swiss chard – Swiss chard is another leafy green vegetable high in magnesium. One cup of cooked Swiss chard contains around 154 mg of magnesium.
3. Black beans – Black beans are an excellent source of both protein and magnesium. One cup of cooked black beans contains around 120 mg of magnesium.
Dark Chocolate provides stress relief too
Stress is a common issue that can lead to health problems if not appropriately managed. Dark chocolate has been shown to help lower stress hormone levels, improving your overall health.
A study published in the Journal of Proteome Research found that participants who ate dark chocolate had lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. The participants also had higher levels of the feel-good hormones serotonin and dopamine.
Another study published in Frontiers in Neuroscience found that it may also help reduce stress by improving blood flow to the brain. In addition, the study found that it improved cognitive function and reduced anxiety in rats.
So, if you’re looking for a way to reduce stress levels, reach for some dark chocolate, and make sure it’s at least 70% cacao solids to get the most benefits.
Herbal tea is a great stress reducer
When it comes to winding down at the end of a long day, there’s nothing quite like a delicious cup of herbal tea. Herbal teas have a calming effect that can help you relax and feel more at ease.
There are various herbal teas to choose from, each with its unique flavor and benefits. So whether you’re looking for something to help you sleep or want to relax and unwind, there’s an herbal tea that’s perfect for you.
Here are a few of our favorite herbal teas to help you relax:
Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea is one of the most popular herbal teas for relaxation. This tea has a sweet, floral flavor and is known for its calming properties.
Rooibos Tea: Rooibos tea is made from the leaves of a South African bush. This herbal infusion has a naturally sweet flavor and is packed with antioxidants.
In conclusion, there are many benefits to incorporating stress-reducing foods into your diet. These foods can help improve your mood, increase your energy levels, and reduce overall stress. By combining these foods into your diet, you can help to improve your overall health and well-being.
