The Top Foods to Relieve Stress and Anxiety

05:16 PM

Monday 05 June 2023

I wrote – Nada Najid:

Some people take sedatives when feeling stressed and anxious, without realizing that there are foods that help calm the nerves and feel relaxed.

In the next report, The Consulto reviews the most important foods that help relieve stress, “Every Day Health”.

Also read: Stay away from these foods and drinks that make you anxious

Foods to relieve stress

1- Dark chocolate

Dark chocolate plays a major role in relieving stress, as it contains antioxidants, which in turn help reduce cortisol levels in the body.

2- Whole grains

Whole grains help relieve stress very effectively, due to their high content of complex carbohydrates, which increase serotonin levels in the body, which contributes to improving mood.

You may be interested: How to get rid of stress in 5 minutes?

3- Avocado

Avocado is characterized by its high content of omega-3 acids, which contribute to reducing stress and anxiety, enhancing concentration and improving mood, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.

4- fish

Omega-3 acids can be obtained from food other than avocado, which is fatty fish, such as salmon, herring, mackerel, and sardines, but it is recommended to eat them twice a week.

5- Nuts

Nuts contain nutrients that relieve stress, such as vitamin B complex and healthy fatty acids, however, they must be eaten in moderation, because excessive consumption of them causes weight gain, due to their high calories.

You may also be interested in: Natural Antidepressants- 4 Foods That Improve Your Mood

6- Citrus fruits

In a study published in the Journal of Pakistan in 2013, researchers found that citrus fruits, such as oranges, grapefruit, and strawberries, have anti-stress effects, due to their vitamin C content.

Another 2015 study found similar results, showing that vitamin C reduced stress levels in participants after they took 500 milligrams of it per day.

7- Yogurt

Yogurt has positive effects on mental health, as it contains probiotics, a substance that contributes to improving mood, reducing stress and anxiety, and fighting depression, by promoting gut health.

8- Vegetables

The dietary fiber found in vegetables and fruits not only helps support a healthy digestive system, but also contributes to reducing stress, according to a review published in the Journal of Nutritional Neuroscience in July 2018.

Also read: Supplements that fight depression