These 8 Foods Will Help You Relieve Stress Naturally

Jul 29, 2018 by apost team

We are what we eat. You've probably heard this phrase a thousand times, but there's a reason why it's so often repeated. The foods we consume have a big impact on not only our waistlines, but our mental wellbeing as well. If you're constantly stressed and unhappy, your diet might have something to do with it. Here are eight foods that will help you to banish stress naturally, without the aid of harsh drugs.

Citruses are packed with whopping amounts of vitamin C. While you might already be aware that vitamin C is amazing for boosting the immune system and warding off illness, you might not be aware of its stress-reducing benefits. Vitamin C helps all mechanisms of the body to function better, including our nervous system. A glass of lemon water every morning can help you to feel better throughout the day. If lemon is a bit too tart for you, any citrus fruit will have the same effect.

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Spinach is full of magnesium, which is a completely natural anxiety reducer. There's a reason why those people who eat so cleanly always seem so happy and upbeat. Raw spinach is best for getting the vegetable's full benefits, but if you can't stomach the taste, sautéed spinach is also beneficial.

Yes, wine can be a huge stress-reducer, but it's not because of the alcohol. Wine is full of amino acids, particularly proline, which act as a natural calming agent. Don't drink wine to excess, as you'll feel a lot more stressed out by your hangover the next morning than you do now. However, in moderation, wine can do wonders for a stressed-out mind.

Don't worry, you don't have to stick to spinach and lemon water if you're trying to boost your mood. Dark chocolate is full of flavonoids and antioxidants that are perfect for boosting your mood. Be sure to avoid "imposter" dark chocolate, which is just regular chocolate with added flavor agents. Instead, opt for the authentic dark chocolate options available in health food stores.

Salmon is one of the best protein sources on the planet. Not only is it rich in protein and low in calories, but it's full of omega 3, which improves mood and can also help to improve your complexion as well. If you can't stand the taste of fish, consider adding a fish oil supplement to your routine.

Yes, pasta is a stress-relieving food, but there's a catch. You have to opt for a whole grain noodle with a high fiber content, as sufficient fiber intake has been linked to an improved mood and overall feeling of wellbeing. Although digging into a big bowl of macaroni and cheese might make you feel good while you're eating it, a healthy bowl of whole grain spaghetti packed with vegetables will make you feel better in the long run.

There's a reason why we start our day with eggs and bacon! The yolks of eggs contain the B5 vitamin, which helps to not only boost your mood but to give you more energy throughout the day. If you suspect that the source of your stress is a nagging feeling of sluggishness and a lack of motivation, starting your day with some fried eggs might give you the boost you need.

Oysters might not be a common food, but they contain the highest levels of zinc of any food source. Zinc is imperative to brain function and most of us are sadly not getting enough of this crucial mineral. You don't have to eat oysters everyday, but adding them to your diet during times of high stress can make a huge difference to your mood. If you're not sure how to prepare fresh oysters, canned oysters are easily found at the grocery store and taste great on crackers or toast.

You don't necessarily need to take medication to feel better and reduce stress. Indeed, you can improve how you feel just by eating the right foods. Are these foods a part of your current diet? Do you have a natural cure for stress? Share it with us in the comments!

Our content is created to the best of our knowledge, yet it is of general nature and cannot in any way substitute an individual consultation with your doctor. Your health is important to us!