Certain foods can help relieve stress in tough times
After weeks of staying at home, dealing with home schooling or wondering things will get back to normal, stress is bound to build up. Stress can play a part in problems such as headaches, high blood pressure, heart problems, diabetes, skin conditions, asthma, arthritis, depression and anxiety. While the stresses of a post-COVID world are still lingering, there are some foods that can relieve stress, according to Health.com.
These foods might help to stabilize your blood sugar or your emotional responses.
Green leafy vegetables: These vegetables contain folate, which produces dopamine — a pleasure-inducing brain chemical, helping you keep calm.
Turkey breast: Tryptophan is an amino acid that helps produce serotonin, which helps regulate hunger and feelings of happiness and well-being.
Oatmeal: Carbohydrates can help the brain make serotonin, so opt for oatmeal instead of a sugary doughnut.
Yogurt: Studies have shown that the probiotics in yogurt reduce brain activity in areas that handle emotion, including stress.
Salmon: The anti-inflammatory properties in fish with omega-3 fatty acids can help counteract the negative effects of stress hormones.
Blueberries: The antioxidants and phytonutrients in berries help improve your body’s response to stress.
Dark chocolate: Just a bite of dark chocolate has been shown to reduce your stress hormones, including cortisol.
Seeds: Flaxseed, pumpkin seeds and sunflower seeds are a good source of magnesium, which helps regulate emotions and alleviate depression, fatigue and irritability.