Fight Stress With These 5 Foods
By Brandi Goodman
Whether you're feeling your normal everyday stress or have had magnified stress levels due to an unforeseen circumstance, the important thing is to do what you can to alleviate it. Continuously feeling overwhelmed and burdened is not ideal for your overall health and well-being. Certain foods can work to fight your stress levels and return your blood pressure to normal.
Oatmeal
Comfort foods are labeled as such for a reason. There are certain things you eat that just make you feel good. Your stress dissipates and your worries ease as you enjoy some of your favorite comfort foods. Oatmeal is one of those options. No, you shouldn't be eating the packets from the box at the store that are packed with sugar. Steel cut oats and a homemade bowl, perhaps with added berries and cinnamon, is a better choice. The complex carbs you get from oatmeal take longer to digest, so it is beneficial for your body in other ways as well.
Oranges
Oranges are a good source of Vitamin C. This vitamin is beneficial in the stress relief department. People who get more Vitamin C in their diet are more likely to experience a reduction in blood pressure levels and stress.
Pistachios
Eating a handful of pistachios and some other nut choices, such as almonds, can also alleviate stress. The healthy fats found in nuts are helpful for the heart, working to lower cholesterol and ease inflammation. With improved heart health, your body can maintain blood pressure better and keep stress at bay.
Crunchy Vegetables
Some people hold stress in their jaw. They tend to clench their jaw tight and hold tension in their shoulders when they feel angry, upset, or overwhelmed. Crunchy vegetables can help with this. Your mouth will be so busy crunching on the veggies that the tension and stress will be released. Carrots are a great option.
Warm Milk
A glass of warm milk is often recommended before bed. This is because calcium can work to ease feelings of anxiousness. With stress eliminated, you'll be more likely to fall asleep easier.
Diet is an important part of overall health. When it comes to stress, your anxiety can be reduced with the help of the right foods. Make sure you're staying away from excess amounts of caffeine, processed foods, and sugar that can alleviate your problems. A healthy diet is best to keep your stress levels to a minimum.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Eastvale, Calif.