According to studies, just being stressed increases your body’s need for certain nutrients like vitamins B and C, selenium, magnesium, etc. By simply eating foods rich in these nutrients, you will be able to control your stress levels.
Stress is our response to feeling threatened by any stimulus when we find ourselves in an unpleasant or dangerous situation. The effect of chronic stress on our body is harmful. In the long run, excessive exposure to stress can disrupt almost all body processes and lead to many health and lifestyle problems such as chronic headaches and migraines, anxiety and depression, digestive and sleep problems, heart diseases, high blood pressure, weight gain, etc. Given that chronic stress is part and parcel of our lives, we cannot prevent it but we can control it through a healthy diet.
Certain nutrients in food can keep stress at bay. Among the many ways to manage stress, consuming certain nutrients in food is the best. According to studies, just being stressed increases your body’s need for certain nutrients like vitamins B and C, selenium, magnesium, etc. By simply eating foods rich in these nutrients, you will be able to control your stress levels. In fact, there are studies that show that taking quality nutrients long-term can have a positive effect on your body.
Research has also proven a consistent, critical link between the gut microbes that live in our guts, what we eat and ultimately how we feel. No wonder gut health is integral to managing mood, emotions and psychological health. So, managing stress with food is a great trick for overall health. A well-balanced, nutritious diet is the single most important element to good health. The next time you feel stressed, observe your palate and adjust accordingly. Here are some great food options that are known to reduce stress levels:
5 Effective Food Options to Reduce Stress Levels
- Dark Chocolate: It is said to work in two ways – by chemical and emotional effects. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and helps reduce stress hormone levels in the body when enjoyed in moderation, as it is traditionally devoid of any unnecessary added sugar.
- Warm milk: Known to induce a good night’s sleep and aid in stress management when sipped before retiring to bed. Warm milk has a relaxing effect. Rich in calcium and vitamin D, it helps maintain bones and is also known as a muscle relaxant and mood stabilizer.
- Nuts and seeds: Rich in magnesium, healthy fats and nutrients; Nuts and seeds act as a stress-relieving snack when eaten in moderation. Almonds, flaxseeds, pistachios, sunflower seeds and walnuts are great options to choose from.
- High fiber foods: Foods rich in fiber are considered gut-friendly and can reduce stress, anxiety and depression. To add more fiber to your diet, eat plenty of fresh fruits, leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds, and more. You can also choose whole grain-based foods such as whole grain breakfast cereals.
- Whole unprocessed grains: Known to provide a mood-stabilizing effect by increasing serotonin (a mood-boosting hormone that reduces stress) levels. Thus, resulting in better concentration and focus. For good nutrition and adequate fiber intake, choose healthy, unrefined carbohydrates such as unprocessed grains that take longer to digest and thus release blood sugar slowly over time.
A healthy diet is the best way to overcome stress and its negative impact on our body. Try to eat healthy and watch your food palate according to your physical and emotional needs.
(With inputs from IANS)
