Foods To Take For Help In Handling Stress & Anxiety

One of the keys is avoiding things that will give your body and mind real highs and lows like caffeine and alcohol. You don’t want to intake a lot of stimulants or a lot of depressants when you’re stressed.

Research has shown that these five foods are perfect for feeding your nervous system:

1. Almonds – Try crunching on almonds to get some aggression out. A good source of Vitamin B2 and E, as well as magnesium and zinc, almonds are high in fat, but most of the fat is unsaturated. Like vitamin C, vitamin E has been shown to fight the free radicals associated with stress, and in particular, those free radicals that cause heart disease.

2. Green Tea – Drinking Japanese green tea containing theanine has been shown to stimulate production of brain waves known as alpha waves, these are seen when a person is in a relaxed state.

3. Maca Root – The use of maca for relief of stress and for maintaining a sense of balance in a hectic world is documented both by a growing number of studies as well as a traditional use which dates back almost 2000 years. While not a cure-all, maca root is a remarkable adaptogen with many health benefits, and should be considered for inclusion in your personal arsenal against stress.

4. Salmon- A diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids helps keep cortisol and adrenaline from spiking when you’re feeling tense. Salmon is one of the very best sources of omega-3s. Consuming 4 ounces at least three times a week goes a long way towards protecting your heart when those stress hormones are surging.

5. Oranges- Oranges are high in vitamin B-1, with 1 cup containing nearly 15 percent of your RDA. Also known as thiamine, this vitamin helps your body deal with stress. This amino acid also triggers the release of serotonin, which is a feel-good brain chemical.

Start adding these five foods to your diet, and you should hopefully notice a difference in the way your body handles stress. If you still suffer from stress and anxiety, you may want to consider seeing a dietitian for a more personalized diet plan.