Diet has been closely linked to tackling stress daily. Each meal comprises necessary vitamins and nutrients that help take you on a new day with enthusiasm and rigour. By now, we all are familiar that what we eat has a direct effect on our physical health, but many studies reveal that poor eating habits and bad diet have a major impact on our mental as well as emotional well-being. The prowess of the right diet is such that it can transform your health completely. In this article, we will expand on this very idea and explore how stress-relieving foods can give you a one-way ticket to zen!
By now, all of us are aware that stress is an inevitable part of life, but it doesn't have to consume you. To manage stress better, you can use the most powerful tool in your arsenal - DIET. Eat stress-relieving foods and nourish your way to Zen - a state of mind where you achieve complete peace and tranquillity. So, scan through this blog to find out some great and healthy foods to tackle stress like a pro.
Stress-Relieving Foods and Their Benefits
If you look around closely, you’ll find many stress-relieving foods around you. Adding these food items to your daily diet will help you kick stress to the curb. Wondering what are these food items? Here are some of the most important stress-relieving foods that you must consume.
Stress Relief Fruits
Fruits are loaded with essential nutrients & healthy vitamins that can help you manage stress.
- Citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruits, are considered to be rich in vitamin C, which has, time and again, been shown to reduce stress levels and boost the immune system.
- Berries, such as blueberries and strawberries, are infused with antioxidants that protect our bodies against stress-induced damage.
- Similarly, bananas are a great source of potassium and vitamin B6, which help in serotonin production, the "feel good" stress relief hormone.
Foods That Reduce Cortisol
Cortisol, widely referred to as the "stress hormone," is, in fact, released to tackle stress. Sustained, high levels of cortisol can cause detrimental effects on your health and well-being. Fortunately, there are many foods that reduce cortisol and target stress at its roots.
- Foods with Vitamin B can tackle stress with ease. Try adding more food that contains Fortified cereal & Nutritional yeast.
- Omega-3 fatty acids work to reduce inflammation. You can consume foods that are rich in Omega-3 such as avocados, flax seeds, anchovies, and walnuts.
- Magnesium-rich foods help tackle inflammation and calm stress. Magnesium-rich foods that reduce stress are avocados, leafy greens, bananas, dark chocolate, seeds, and nuts.
Stress Management Supplements
Supplements are meant to support you in gaining freedom from afflictions. They act as an extended branch of your self-care regime. Apart from stress-relieving foods, you can use these supplements to manage stress.
- You can use Omega-3 fatty acids, which are widely known as fish oil supplements. It has been shown to reduce stress levels and anxiety levels significantly.
- Using adaptogens such as Rhodiola rosea and ashwagandha helps our body adapt to stress and tackle anxiety like a pro.
- With magnesium supplements, your body will tackle stress and anxiety to emerge victorious.
- You can also try three60 De-Stress & Chill which comprises the World’s best KSM 66 Ashwagandha and Safr’Inside that work tirelessly to reduce stress and anxiety.
However, it's always crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any new supplements to your routine.
Lifestyle Changes for Effective Stress Reduction
How you live can make a world of difference in your well-being journey. While consuming stress-relieving foods is crucial, it's important to remember that a holistic approach to stress reduction is what one should strive for. Here are some lifestyle changes to follow for effective reduction in anxiety.
Prioritise Self-Care
Your diet can only do so much if your health is not in good condition. Taking care of yourself is crucial if you are facing stress head-on. You can practice relaxation exercises like meditation & work on calming your mind. Do what you love. Some ideal practices are mindfulness, pursuing a favourite hobby, or something as simple as taking a warm bath after a hectic day.
Work Out Your Muscles
Working on your muscles is a crucial physical activity that can help reduce the cortisol levels in your body. When you exercise regularly, your body releases endorphins and improves your mood. Enjoy activities like swimming, dancing, or simply going for a walk. Choose what you love and get going! You must keep your body fit and active so that your mental health is in prime condition.
Practice Mindfulness
Mindfulness is an art that urges you to be fully present in the moment, be one with your surroundings, and non-judgmentally observe your thoughts and feelings. It has been shown to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. You can use simple mindfulness techniques in your daily life, such as deep breathing exercises, yoga, or meditation to deal with stress. These practices can help you cultivate a sense of calm and tackle stress levels head-on.
Adding stress-relieving foods into your diet is a powerful way to nourish your way to zen. By understanding the role of diet in stress management, you can experience a greater sense of calm and balance in your life. Remember, stress is only a part of life, don’t let it control you. Nurture yourself with stress-relieving foods and watch the magic unfold. Start today and take a step closer to a more tranquil and stress-free life.
