Add these foods to your diet to reduce stress. The secret of their properties is that they raise the serotonin level and reduce cortisol production.
Stress is a natural reaction of the body. When a person is in a stressful situation, the adrenaline level in his body increases. And this is important because adrenaline provides a quick reaction to danger, which is called a fight-or-flight response.
It does not occur in all situations, but the body still feels anxious, the heart beats faster, and the muscles tense up.
In most cases, the body is activated under certain circumstances. These can be difficult situations, overtiredness, and constant exposure to unpleasant noise.
Bad habits, nutrient deficiency, and excess toxins in the body are also the cause.
Foods that relieve stress
Fortunately, certain foods can help relieve stress. They improve mental health. These foods can also help reduce stress and related symptoms.
It is not enough to simply add these foods to your diet to get rid of stress. Nevertheless, they will significantly improve your mood and well-being.
1. Milk
Phospholipids, which are contained in milk, can improve mood. They also improve cognitive functions.
It is beneficial to drink milk every day. And all because it improves the response of the endocrine system and psyche to stress. Milk also has a positive effect on memory and the ability to remember.
2. Blueberry
This delicious fruit stands out from the crowd thanks to its antioxidant content, namely vitamins C and E.
Natural blueberry juice reduces the production of cortisol. Cortisol is one of the hormones that increase the effects of stress.
Blueberries also contain potassium, magnesium, and manganese. These are three minerals that help reduce physical tension. After all, they are the main cause of stress.
3. Dark chocolate
It is recommended to eat 40-45 grams of dark chocolate every day. The fact is that dark chocolate reduces the level of adrenaline and cortisol. At the same time, it increases the amount of serotonin.
In such chocolate, the cocoa content should be at least 60%. This helps fight oxidative stress, depression, fatigue, and other symptoms associated with emotional imbalance.
4. Red wine
A glass of red wine has many useful properties. It helps protect heart health. And also, improves blood circulation, controls nervous system imbalances, and promotes a sense of relief when you have anxiety attacks.
5. Salmon
Salmon and other fish are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. These acids help reduce inflammation and increase the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin.
Salmon contains powerful antioxidants and important minerals and elements that fight the production of cortisol and adrenaline. As a result, it improves the body’s ability to resist stress.
6. Avocado
It is a fruit that is very useful for health. The secret of its beneficial properties is the high content of fatty acids, vitamin E, and various minerals. It protects cell membranes and the nervous system as a whole.
Eating a little avocado every day can help control blood pressure, and high levels of cortisol, and antioxidants.
7. Almond
It contains vitamins E and A, useful minerals, and fats. This has a positive effect on the mood and increases the energy level.
Almonds contain fiber, which also helps manage stress by easing digestive problems that can occur due to emotional or physical stress.
8. Oatmeal
Carbohydrates contained in oatmeal improve mood. And all thanks to the fact that they contribute to the production of serotonin in the brain.
Oatmeal for breakfast gives you a better start to your day. You will be calmer and have the more physical and mental energy.
9. Fermented food
One of the secrets to good mental health is taking care of your gut. Intestinal flora significantly affects the general state of health. If too many harmful bacteria accumulate in the intestines, it can affect a person’s mental state.
Fermented foods contain many beneficial bacteria. They directly affect the chemical processes that occur in the brain, helping to send signals of a stable normal mood through the vagus nerve.
For example, many such products contain the probiotic Lactobacillus rhamnosus. This bacterium reduces the level of cortisol, which increases under the influence of stress.
You can find it in the following foods:
- natural yogurt
- kefir
- sauerkraut
- pickles
- miso soup
So, add these foods to your diet to reduce the effects of stress and improve your mood.
Picture Credit: VistaCreate