Stress has become a part of everyday life for most of the people. Stress is just not related to your work anymore. People feel stressful even on holidays. The holiday season, for example, brings in maxed out credit card bills, family gatherings, parties, tiresome shopping, these things only make your holidays more stressful than joyous. No matter whatever is the reason behind your stress, one of the best avenues to defend yourself from it is food. Food plays a major role in your stress management. Include these seven food items into your daily meals, and bid farewell to your stressful days.
1Black beans
Black beans is loaded with Magnesium. This mineral has the property of relaxing your muscles and tissues. There are many studies that link Magnesium deficiency with insomnia and stress. This is one of the main reasons why most Doctors prescribe for magnesium supplements to their patients suffering from insomnia. Its muscle relaxing effect makes you sleep better. When you sleep better you will naturally feel less stressful. Best way to source this mineral is through your food than supplements. Other major sources of magnesium include peanuts, almond butter, leafy greens, and seeds.
2Quinoa
Quinoa is a whole grain that is rich in B-vitamins. Our body needs B-vitamin for the healthy functioning of the brain and brain hormones that which is necessary to ward off stress. There are numerous studies that reveal deficiency of B-Vitamins like B12 and B6 induces mood swings, stress, and anxiety. On the contrary, when you take high levels of B-vitamins, it is found to improve mood and gives you more handle while managing stressful situations. Some other sources of B-vitamins include oats, barley, brown rice, amaranth, and buckwheat.
3Edamame
Edamame is a rich source of an amino acid called tryptophan. This amino acid plays a vital role in the production of a hormone called serotonin, which helps you to feel calm and relaxed. A recent study revealed decreased intake of tryptophan leads to increase in stress and anxiety levels, while increased intake had a calming effect on stressful people and made them more agreeable. This has proved to be more effective on both men and women. Other sources of tryptophan include beef, cheese, and pumpkin seeds.
4Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds is starting to become a popular snack worldwide and many people have started to realize its benefits. These seeds are rich in zinc, a vital mineral that is essential to fight stress and anxiety. One popular study revealed majority of people who were dealing with severe stress had zinc deficiency. Another study revealed an obvious link between zinc, GABA, and glutamate. These are neurotransmitters that are responsible for regulating anxiety, stress, and depression. Other foods sources with high zinc content include oysters, chicken, nuts, beef, and adzuki beans.
5Chamomile tea
Chamomile tea contains a phenolic flavonoid called apigenin, which is well known to keep both your body and mind in a relaxed state. So whenever you feel stressful or what to take a little drink, try to take a cup of Chamomile tea. You can replace your regular cup of tea or coffee with Chamomile tea. Some studies also suggest it has anti-inflammatory property. So it is good for your immune as well.
6Chocolates
It is no wonder that most women are addicted to eating chocolates. Reason being it makes them feel good mentally and relieves them of stress. If you look into chocolates and its contents, it contains two vital compounds called anandamide and PEA (phenylethylamine). These chemical compounds have a relaxing and calming effect on your mind. Though dark chocolates are the preferred option owing to its low sugar content, milk chocolates should work well in reducing your stress as well.
7Kefir
Kefir is one of the most sought probiotic dairy product. If you do not know about probiotics, they are good for your gut and improves the working of your digestive system. Your gut has a direct link to your mood. A healthier gut means happier brain. In a study, who women who ate yogurt every day, a popular probiotic showed reduced activity in the areas of the brain that process stress. Increased intake of Kefir increases the production of serotonin, which helps your body to regulate stress effectively.
