While technology claims to make people’s lives easier, it also raises the expectations regarding what people are supposed to accomplish in a given day. Whether this is with work life or personal affairs, it seems like it’s impossible to fit everything on the to-do list in a given day. This creates an immense feeling of stress that many people have difficulty overcoming. Fortunately, there are many different foods that everyone can consume that can provide stress relief.
Spinach
Spinach is a leafy green that is packed with numerous vitamins and nutrients that many kids watched Popeye consume as a child. Spinach also contains folate, a key ingredient in red blood cells that also releases dopamine from the brain. This neurotransmitter helps keep people calm under pressure.
Turkey Breast
There’s a good reason why people appear calm after consuming an inordinate amount of turkey at Thanksgiving dinner. Turkey contains tryptophan, a key amino acid but also a substance that keeps people calm.
Oatmeal
Yes, oatmeal can cause the blood sugar to rise which can increase someone’s energy stores; however, the complex carbohydrates in oatmeal also trigger the brain to release Serotonin, which makes people happy.
Yogurt with Cultures
Many different types of yogurt have bacterial cultures in them. These bacteria can trigger brain signals that help people handle their emotions, according to a 2013 study out of UCLA.
Fish
Many different types of fish, such as salmon, contain an immense number of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids have the ability to reduce inflammation, a big reason why many people take fish oil supplements.
Berries
Many fruit berries, such as blueberries, contain a substance known as phytonutrients. These trigger a boost in the body’s immune system, helping to fight off invaders and relieve physical stress.
Pistachios
Many nuts, such as pistachios, contain nutrients that are important for heart health. They help to lower blood pressure and heart rate, creating a calming effect that many people have been looking for.
Dark Chocolate
Yes, eating too much chocolate can contribute to diabetes; however, moderate amounts of dark chocolate can lower the stress hormone known as cortisol. It may also lower cholesterol.
Eggs and Sunlight
Both eggs and sunlight can increase the body’s level of vitamin D. A study out of London that spanned 50 years revealed that healthy levels of Vitamin D can reduce panic attacks and depression.
Flaxseed
Many different seeds are high in magnesium, which has been demonstrated in medical studies to reduce depression and irritability.
Cashews
Cashews are high in zinc, a common nutrient missing from the diets of many people. Low zinc levels can lead to an increase in anxiety, so consume enough zinc to remain calm under stress.
Avocado
Many people feel the need to eat when they feel stressed and avocado can help people feel full. This can help people reduce the need to eat while under stress, leading to a healthier lifestyle.