It would be hard to deny that we all live very stressful lives today. Of course, it’s not all bad.
Without stress not much would ever get done, but a glut of it, along with that familiar knotty feeling in the stomach, and other unpleasant sensations that it triggers in the body, needs to be kept under control.
That doesn’t mean we all need to go rushing off in search of some panacea or magic pill to reduce our stress levels. Far from it. Sometimes all that’s needed is something as simple as a change in diet.
Why not try these time tested foods that contain properties that are sure to get those stress levels down to a more manageable level.
Table of Contents
1. Avocados
Avocodos are a rich source of potassium.
Potassium and stress, what’s the connection?
According to The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, potassium is an essential ingredient in getting those stress levels down. Being so potassium rich, avocados are an essential weapon in mother nature’s arsenal to assist you in your fight against stress.
Since potassium levels deplete when under stress, it’s vital to get that level back up in order for it to play its crucial role in your body’s ability to sustain itself effectively. So, next time you feel the stress levels sky rocket, treat yourself to some homemade guacamole to normalize those potassium levels.
2. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes, like avocados, contain high levels of potassium and are also a good source of iron, a lack of which may cause you to feel stressed. Iron is essential to the flow of oxygen toward the brain and muscle tissue.
Add to this the fact that the fibers in sweet potatoes assist in the processing of carbohydrates, then it’s clear to see why they are an essential part of anyone’s diet in their efforts to restore a calm state of mind.
3. Broccoli, Dried Fruits And Peanuts.
These all contain various forms of vitamin B, which not only fight chronic illness, but also play a vital role in the functioning of the nervous system. They also activate the brain’s secretion of serotonin, which has almost become synonymous with feelings of well being.
Vitamin B in its various forms is also of great help in the fight against those feelings of mental confusion, irritability, and nervousness that are associated with stress. Other foods that contain vitamin B are: yeast, beans, nuts, and wheat germ.
4. Spinach
This favourite of a certain famous cartoon character of sailing fame, is rich in magnesium, a lack of which is associated with migraine headaches and a general feeling of fatigue. So, make sure it is a regular part of your diet.
5. Oranges
As we all know, oranges are a great source of vitamin C which decrease when our stress levels go up. According to reliable sources, vitamin C plays a role in diminishing stress levels and also helps bring blood pressure down too.
And no prizes for knowing that it also boosts our immune system. Other sources of vitamin C are red peppers, kiwis and tomatoes. So oranges are clearly good for more than simply warding off colds.
6. Turkey
We usually don’t think of meat when contemplating foods that may relax us and fight off stress, but turkey contains an amino acid, namely L-tryptophan, which activates the release of serotonin – the famous happiness hormone.
Many people feel particularly relaxed and well with the world after indulging in turkey. Tryptophan is the cause of this happy sate.
7. Dark Raw Chocolate
It will be no surprise that this is one of the most popular foods in the pursuit of stress relief, particularly dark chocolate it would seem.
Studies have shown that a modest intake can reduce the levels of the stress hormones cortisol and catecholamines. It’s not fully understood how chocolate reduces stress levels, but so many people can’t be wrong, can they?
No one needs to be reminded not to go overboard, not unless you want a brand new reason to cause you stress next time you stand on the bathroom scales. Kind of defeats the object.
8. Asparagus
According to some studies, anxiety and depression have been linked to a lack of folic acid.
Well, this vegetable is loaded with the stuff, which has been shown to have mood stabilizing effects. Like vitamin B, folic acid is essential in the production of our much loved friend serotonin.
Make sure this little spear shaped vegetable is part of your weaponry against stress.
9. Raw Milk
Milk is rich in antioxidants as well as vitamins B2 and B12. Also it contains the protein lactium, which is shown to reduce blood pressure.
It also is yet another source of potassium which, along with the benefits mentioned under avocados, relieves muscle spasms which are often an unpleasant side effect of feeling tense.
A bowl of whole grain cereal for breakfast with raw milk is a great way to get your body prepared for the stresses of the day.
10. Grass Fed Beef
This comes as somewhat of a surprise to many people who usually associate beef with grunting carnivorous cavemen.
Not an image you readily associate with feelings of calm. But it’s true. Beef contains high levels of zinc, along with the essential B vitamins, and a good dose of iron and folic acid, all of which are a natural antidote to stress levels common to us all in the modern world.
Health by choice, not by chance.
-David Aston
