Stress is something that we all experience, but many are not good at managing it. But did you know that alleviating stress can be as easy as consuming specific food items?
Yup, you've read that right.
There are food and beverages that have inherent stress-relieving qualities, and gobbling them up can do wonders in easing your stress.
Without further ado, here are some foods to munch on to relieve the taxing effects of stress:
Apple cider vinegar
Apple cider vinegar or ACV is one of those ingredients that are popular in the health and wellness space, given how it delivers a slew of benefits.
Not only can it kill harmful bacteria, but it can also lower blood sugar levels, boost skin health, and even aid in weight loss. When it comes to alleviating stress, it
contributes to maintaining even energy and preventing fatigue.
It's all thanks to the essential minerals it has like potassium, which has a direct correlation on energy levels.
Contrary to popular belief, there are many ways you can include apple cider vinegar into your meals beyond the tasty vinaigrette. You can mix it in a smoothie, use it to glaze meat dishes, or stir up a salad.
Believe it or not, you can also use it to make scrumptious chocolate pancakes, so long as you follow the recipe.
Whole grains
There's a reason why people treat grains or carbs as comfort food.
Whole grains like wheat, oats, brown rice, barley, quinoa, and corn are packed with magnesium and tryptophan content, both of which are known to lessen anxiety and boost mood. And given how whole grains are also complex carbohydrates, they can induce the brain to ramp up serotonin production and stabilise blood pressure as a way to reduce stress.
Even better whole grains aren't hard to prepare.
This article shows just how versatile and easy to use today's rice cookers are, making it much more convenient to put together meals that involve grains.
Plus, since whole grains also happen to be incredibly versatile, there's almost an endless list of recipes you can try.
Avocado
Avocados have exploded in popularity in recent years, and for good reason. They are rich in omega 3 fatty acids, which are healthy essential acids that are known to reduce stress and anxiety, boost concentration, and improve mood. They are also packed with vitamin B6, vitamins responsible for making several neurotransmitters, including serotonin. When you have a deficiency of this vitamin, it's possible that you may experience increased anxiety.
Yet, it doesn't stop there. The superpower of avocadoes extends to phytochemicals, fibre, and essential nutrients, as well as lowering the risk of metabolic syndrome. So the next time you're feeling particularly stressed or want to make more of an effort in improving your health, just grab yourself an avocado.
Yoghurt
Another food item that you regularly consume but maybe aren't aware that it has stress-defying benefits is your plain ol’ yoghurt. It contains healthful bacteria, specifically lactobacillus and bifido-bacteria, which are proven to have positive effects on brain health.
Like other dairy products of its kind, it also has an anti-inflammatory effect on the body. And since some research suggests that chronic inflammation may be partly responsible for anxiety, stress, and depression, it's safe to say that yoghurt
has stress-busting benefits.
In fact, a study a few years ago found that fermented foods reduced social anxiety in young people, while multiple studies found that consumption of healthful bacteria increased happiness.
When you include yoghurt and other fermented food (think cheese, kimchi, and soy) in your diet, you can benefit from reduced anxiety and stress, and better gut health too.
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A post by Shannon Oakley..
Shannon Oakley is passionate about health and food. From a young age, she's found herself comfortable in any kitchen. Today, she’s dedicated to helping others choose the right food to bring them health and happiness. When she's not researching or writing, you'll find her preparing something exciting in the kitchen.
