Feeling Anxious And Stressed? Eat Smarter With These Mood-Boosting Foods
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Feeling stressed or anxious? Check these expert-recommended, mood-boosting foods that can naturally reduce stress and support emotional well-being.
Feeling low or overwhelmed? What you eat might be more powerful than you think. According to health experts, certain foods have natural mood-boosting properties that can help reduce stress, calm anxiety, and improve overall emotional well-being. Consuming nutrient-dense foods like omega-3 fatty acids, dark chocolate, fresh fruits and vegetables, and herbal teas can significantly reduce stress, boost happiness, and support emotional well-being. These foods are rich in antioxidants and essential vitamins that help elevate serotonin levels and ease anxiety naturally.
While balancing work and personal life can be overwhelming, many people turn to unhealthy comfort foods for quick relief, often leading to long-term health issues like diabetes and high cholesterol. By making mindful dietary choices, you can foster a more positive mindset and lead a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Dr. Rohini Patil, MBBS and Nutritionist, shares a list of stress-busting foods that can nourish both your body and your mind.
Almonds
Almonds are packed with nutrients that help fight stress. They are rich in magnesium, which promotes relaxation and helps combat stress. They also contain vitamin E, an antioxidant that protects the body from the harmful effects of stress. Eating a handful of almonds daily can be a simple and effective way to keep stress at bay.
Makhana
Makhana, also known as fox nuts, is a great snacking option. It is packed with micronutrients like calcium, phosphorus, and magnesium. It also contains antioxidants like gallic acid and epicatechin, which reduce inflammation and protect against stress. Munching on makhana roasted in ghee along with some ghee-roasted almonds is a delicious and healthy combination.
Feeling overwhelmed? Try eating a banana. These yellow fruits are full of nutrients that can help calm your nerves. Bananas are rich in potassium, which regulates blood pressure and keeps your heart steady, even in stressful situations. Plus, they are an easy, portable snack you can take anywhere.
Green Tea
Sipping a cup of green tea can feel like a warm hug for your body. Green tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which promotes relaxation and reduces stress. Instead of reaching for another cup of coffee when you're feeling frazzled, try brewing a calming cup of green tea.
Did you know that your gut health can influence your stress levels? That's where Greek yoghurt comes in. It is full of probiotics, which promote a healthy balance of bacteria in your gut. This can help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety. Enjoy it as a snack or use it as a topping for your favourite dishes; your gut will thank you.
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