5 Instant De-Stress Foods
Stress can take a toll on your body’s natural defenses, but eating the right foods can offer relief. We all feel stressed out by our daily life sometimes and, unfortunately, we tend to reach for junk food. But high-calorie or sugary foods only trick us into thinking we feel better. For conquering stress, a food’s nutrient profile might be just as important as how it makes you feel. End the cycle of eating bad-for-you foods and find relief elsewhere. Instead, add these truly anti-stress foods to your diet.
1. Warm Cup of Tea-
Researchers suggest that a cup of tea reduces stress, not just by drinking it but also because of the calming effect of the ritual of putting the kettle on. There’s the soothing effect of sipping a warm cup of tea, regardless of the flavor, but certain herbs have been shown to have a relaxing effect on their own. For example, some studies have suggested Chamomile (Damini Ful) may reduce anxiety by helping rewire the body’s stress response, and increasing production of the feel-good hormones serotonin and dopamine.
2. Dark Chocolate-
Go ahead, grab a chocolate bar. New evidence proves that eating dark chocolate every day can reduce stress. Dark chocolate, which is also rich in antioxidants, can also lower levels of stress hormones in the body. Stick to a 1ounce serving or less of at least 60 percent cacao dark chocolate daily.
3. Whole- Grain Charbohydrates-
Picking the right carb is critical as one can act as a stress buster and another as a stress enhancer. According to studies, carbohydrates can increase levels of serotonin, which can elevate our concentration level leading to a productive workday. But differentiating the right carb is of utmost importance as refined carbs such as chips, cookies, and crackers are tied to inflammation, stress, and depression. Studies also suggest that, these carbs may also increase your pressure level, straining your heart health and lead you to over eat later in the day. Complex carbs, on the other hand, can do wonders for your stress levels because they digest more slowly and keep blood sugar levels balanced. Sources of complex carbs include sweet potatoes and whole grains (such as whole-grain bread, brown rice, and old fashioned oats).
4. Bananas-
The yellow, potassium -rich fruit contains the mood-boosting chemical dopamine, along with magnesium, level of which descends rapidly during stressful times. Studies have found that magnesium deficiency slowly increased depression and anxiety symptoms. Bananas are furthermore a rich source of certain B vitamins, such as vitamin B6, which helps the nervous system run correctly, and can decrease stress and fatigue. In addition to stress benefits, bananas can also relieve heartburn and keep your blood sugar levels up.
5. Pistachios-
Stress runs you down, which leaves you open to sickness. Nuts such as pistachios which are high in the antioxidant and zinc can ward off unhealthy cravings, lower our blood pressure levels and stress levels as well. We should just keep in mind that we need to consume only a small handful, as nuts are calorie dense which can lead to increase in weight if we eat one too many.
– Norvic Editorial Team
