Anxiety can strike at any time and for many reasons. The discovery and root cause can usually be extracted through the addition of therapy, and other helpful services but with so many individuals afflicted we all could use some help calming our nerves and reducing our stress an angst. It’s imperative to address anxiety early on, as many who suffer from anxiety and other mental health conditions may turn to drugs and alcohol, but there are far more constructive solutions available, for instance food. The saying, we are what we eat, rings true as the food consume has an impact on the way our bodies function and how we carry through our daily lives. So what are the right foods for anxiety? Today we will explore a list of foods that reduce anxiety fast, giving ourselves a healthier option to a stable and healthy mind.
For those of you who might have a sweet tooth, processed sugars in abundance will likely only add to your anxiety. Try filling that sweet void with some natural options like berries which carry an abundance of antioxidants to help protect your cells from stress and depressions, to fruits like oranges which carry large amounts of vitamin C, helping to reduce anxiety and enhancing one’s calm.
2. Leafy Greens
Vegetables such as spinach, kale, collard greens, or Swiss chard all include healthy sources of magnesium which is a great mineral to help individuals naturally feel calmer.
3. Oatmeal
This and other forms of complex carbs help provide the body with energy but digest easier than denser carbs found in breads, and also can boost serotonin which helps to increase positive mood stability.
4. Dark Chocolate
If we nothing else, we should all leave here today with a simple understanding, antioxidants equals good. Dark chocolate is another source of antioxidants called flavonoids which help protect your cells, lower blood pressure, boost blood flow, and general make individuals feel less anxious. As long as the cocoa is at least 70% this should help with anxiety. The only caution, is to keep dark chocolate snacking in moderation as there is some caffeine which would lend to some residual effect if consumed abundantly.
5. Sauerkraut
A solid vegetable option in its own right, cabbage is rich in folic acid, vitamin C, and some vitamin B, which all help to reduce anxiety. However, add in the stewing fermentation that provides sour taste in sauerkraut, breaking down sugars into helpful bacteria that will assist in keeping your gut healthy as well as adding a boost of serotonin, similar to oatmeal.
6. Oysters
They’re not just an aphrodisiac, and magnesium isn’t the only mineral which helps as a food to reduce anxiety. Oyster contain zinc which naturally helps our bodies deal with and reduce stress. Oysters are a strong option for zinc but if you can’t enjoy this somewhat acquired taste, try cashews, beef, or eggs as a potential substitute.
7. Tea
Somewhat of a cheat, as tea is more of a drink than food, however it would be wise to add this in to your natural anxiety reducing routine. Tea leaves themselves contain antioxidants, and adding calming herbs such as lavender and chamomile which all help reduce anxiety and stress. Just be on the lookout for tea like earl grey or breakfast teas which may contain caffeine which would counteract the calming stress reducing effects.
We hope this information was helpful in providing an understanding of foods that reduce anxiety fast. If you or a loved one needs any additional assistance with alcohol addiction treatment services, please reach out to Long Island Center for Recovery at 631-728-3100, and we’d be happy to assist you or your loved ones in any way possible.
References:
WebMD: Can I Eat My Way Calm?
https://www.webmd.com/anxiety-panic/ss/slideshow-calming-foods
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