The secret is in your table.. These foods and drinks protect you from anxiety and stress

The escalation taking place in the region and all the events we are witnessing and the documentation of painful and bloody moments experienced by children in Gaza must have an impact on our daily lives. What if you add to that the permanent conflicts we are waging in Lebanon in light of the economic crisis and the unprecedented collapse in securing basic needs? . The tension here, in this country engaged in battles and standing firm on the “hand of the demon” before completely sliding into a war with undesirable consequences, is affecting everyone, multiplying worries and increasing diseases resulting from anxiety.

Many scientific research and studies confirm the relationship between stress and the type of diet that each individual follows. According to nutritionist Grace Rabil, food directly affects people’s psychological state. Not getting the daily requirement of nutrients can increase the state of stress and anxiety for some, and it can also affect mental ability such that the individual loses the ability to concentrate to make any decision.
Rabel explained in an interview with “Lebanon 24” that foods are very important in “improving the mood.” Many people resort to their favorite foods to adjust the “mood,” and this is what is known as “comfort food” or comfort foods. However, these foods have health risks if consumed in large quantities because they are often rich in calories. According to the nutrition expert, individuals’ favorite foods vary according to their tastes. Some prefer sweet foods while others choose salty foods, but in both cases you must pay attention to the amount of them consumed.

No health costs. Reducing stress starts from here
In her interview with Lebanon 24, the specialist advises staying away from some drinks and foods that exacerbate anxiety and depression, and refutes a number of delicacies and drinks that may improve your mood without “health costs.” Among these foods are:

– Milk or yogurt: one of the most important food sources rich in “probiotics,” which form a natural barrier to defend intestinal health. It also helps improve mood by reducing levels of stress and anxiety.

– Berries: Berries of many types contain “vitamin C” and antioxidants that protect and repair damaged and stressed cells. Therefore, people who suffer from nervousness are advised to drink a cup of raspberry juice to relieve stress and relax.

– Fatty fish such as tuna, salmon, and oysters: These foods are distinguished by their rich content of “omega-3” acids, which help regulate “serotonin” and “dopamine,” which are responsible for reducing stress hormones, thus improving the individual’s mood.

– Chamomile: Chamomile tea can be used as a sleep aid in general. Drinking a hot cup of this natural drink may help increase the levels of “serotonin” and “melatonin” in the body, creating a feeling of relaxation.

– Dark chocolate: Although it is rich in calories, Rabel recommends eating dark chocolate due to its benefits on mental health, but in moderation. Chocolate can relieve emotional stress as it contains a high percentage of “tryptophan,” which the body converts into neurotransmitters such as “serotonin,” which affects individuals’ moods and reduces their anxiety.

Worries and increases psychological disorders.. Stay away from them!
Returning to the foods and drinks that it is advisable to avoid because of their negative effects on the mental health and mood of individuals, Rabel enumerates these foods:

– Processed meats and cheeses: These foods cause many health problems because they contain “trans fats” and artificial ingredients. This type of food promotes obesity, heart disease, and blood pressure. It also does not provide the necessary nutrients for the body. Therefore, eating “manufactured canned goods” harms the body and stresses it, thus increasing psychological disorders.

– Coffee: Consuming coffee, which is rich in caffeine, activates “adenosine receptors” that work to stimulate and excite the central nervous system in the body. Therefore, drinking a large amount of coffee raises stress levels in individuals and may sometimes cause panic attacks.

– Energy drinks: These drinks contain high levels of caffeine and large amounts of sugar and artificial sweeteners, so consuming them may cause insomnia, anxiety, and stress.

– Alcohol: Although a new study has shown that consuming a moderate amount of alcohol relieves stress and reduces stress responses in the part of the brain that processes fear and threats, Rabil advises avoiding alcohol because of the risks of drinking too much of it, not to mention addiction.