Feeling stressed out and anxious all the time? Food can help you. But it has to be of the right kind, with certain specific nutrients that aids in relieve stress and anxiety.
You do not have to wonder and keep searching for those foods that help you to relax and calm your mind. We did the hard work for you, so you can relax and read on to know the top seven foods that will alter your brain chemicals and help you to feel and calm and peaceful mind. Keep reading.
Eggs
Eggs are a good source of choline. A nutrient that is similar to a vitamin and much needed for the production of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that regulate mood and bring down stress. A recent study found that people with higher stress and anxiety levels also had low levels of choline. Additionally, eggs are also a good source of vitamin-D, which aids in reducing anxiety.
Chard
Chard contains high levels of magnesium, mineral well known for its muscle relaxing property. It also regulates the release of stress hormones such as cortisol, and help to reduce depression and anxiety.
Low levels of dietary magnesium is known to increase anxiety, and reduce probiotic balance in the colon and raise the symptoms of stress.
Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of fiber and complex carbohydrates. It has a low glycemic index, which means it helps to maintain healthy levels of blood sugar and reduce anxiety.
Many studies point out to the fact that foods which high glycemic index like white bread, pasta, cookies, noodles, cakes, etc… are linked to increased risk of depression and stress.
Chamomile tea
Chamomile tea is high in chemicals that are found to reduce stress in one study. People who participated in the study are made to drink chamomile tea for eight weeks every day. Results of the study revealed most participants showed a significant reduction in their anxiety and depression levels.
Herbal teas like chamomile tea are a great alternative for coffee and beverages rich in caffeine content. Not to mention that caffeine can increase or worsen your anxiety. It can even induce panic attacks.
Brown rice
B-vitamins are vital for the production of serotonin, dopamine, and other neurotransmitters that regulate mood. Thiamine, one of the B-vitamins as shown to reduce anxiety, stress, and depression, and other symptoms related to it, including headache, insomnia, panic attacks, and nightmares. Brown rice, being a rich source of B-vitamins will help a lot in making you find your peace.
Kidney beans
kidney beans contain high levels of a particular amino acid called tryptophan. This amino acid elevates the levels of serotonin in the brain and has a calming effect on your mood.
Several studies linked elevated levels of stress and anxiety to low levels of tryptophan.
Cashews
Cashews are a rich source of zinc, a vital mineral that regulates gamma-aminobutyric acid and has anti-stress effects on the brain. Zinc deficiency is linked to many psychological and psychiatric conditions which includes depression, bipolar disorder, and depression.