Stress is that unpleasant, negative feeling of not being able to handle certain demands and events in our life, which could often play havoc with our lives. Every person experiences it day in and out and how we cope with it makes all the difference. However, occasional bouts of stress are unavoidable, but chronic stress can take a toll on your physical and mental health. This may increase the risk of health conditions like heart disease and depression. Also Read: Depression: Causes, Symptoms And Treatment

The increased levels of stress can arise from work, relationships, financial crisis and or any other situation that can pose a threat to an individual’s well-being. Apparently, for some people stressful situations can be a motivator, the body’s fight or flight mechanism can tell a person when and how to react to any threat or danger.

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COVID-19 Pandemic has taken a toll on people’s health and it is not unnatural to feel increased stress and panic. The body becomes triggered easily if there are several stress factors at a time, which can weaken an individual’s emotional, mental and physical well-being and become hurtful. Also Read: Home Alone During Lockdown? This Is How You Can Stay Productive Sans Stress

Stress can be managed by various strategies like meditation, yoga, breathing exercise, cultivating hobbies and even food works wonders in easing stress. Interestingly food can help relieve stress in different ways which include consuming comfort foods like warm oatmeal, trigger levels of serotonin a brain soothing chemical, while other superfoods lower the level of stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline. Eating a healthy diet can support to balance the impact of stress by boosting the immune system and reducing blood pressure. Read this article to get an insight into amazing foods that work as real stress busters.

Incredible Stress-Busting Foods

Complex Carbohydrates

Complex carbohydrates loaded with dietary fibre and essential nutrients make the brain to produce more serotonin. This feel too good chemical helps to beat stress and for a regular supply of serotonin, it is best to add complex carbs in the diet which take longer time to digest. Besides this, it also helps you feel balanced by regulating blood glucose levels. Some of the good sources include whole-grain cereals, bread, breakfast cereals like oatmeal and muesli.

Chick Peas/Chana Dal

Chickpeas are loaded with a rich array of stress-fighting nutrients such as magnesium, potassium, B vitamins, zinc, selenium, manganese and copper to mention a few. Apart from these, it is also abundant in amino acids L-tryptophan which the body needs to make mood-regulating neurotransmitters. Studies also support that a diet plentiful in plant protein like chickpeas are valuable in stimulating brain health and better mood.

Oranges

The vast reserves of vitamin C and antioxidants in oranges and citrus fruits make it a perfect food that aids in combating stress. Several studies reveal that vitamin C can curb the levels of stress hormones; besides it also uplifts the immune system. Regular intake of oranges helps to control the levels of cortisol, the stress hormone and bring down blood pressure during high anxiety times.

Spinach

Lack of magnesium may cause headaches and fatigue, which are symptoms associated with stress. A serving of spinach helps to stock back up of this essential mineral which exhibits stress-fighting power. You can also choose from a wide range of other green leafy vegetables that are a good source of magnesium which assists people with anxiety and depression to stay calmer.

Black Tea

Sipping a cup of black tea is all you need to get relieved from stressful events instantly. Studies revealed that black tea is bestowed with caffeine and amino acids L–theanine which enhances alertness, focus and increase alpha activity in the brain that promotes relaxation and better focus.

Nuts

Nuts and seeds are loaded with chock-full of essential nutrients like vitamin E, B and a good source of healthy fats that are beneficial in beating stress. Eating a handful of pistachios, almonds and walnuts makes you stronger during episodes of stress or depression. Furthermore, these nuts assist in maintaining lipid profile, lower inflammation in the arteries, regulate diabetes and safeguards you against the effects of stress. To reap the benefits munch on a fistful of nuts as a healthy snack regularly.

Conclusion

Foods contain bountiful nutrients that may help you to ease stress. Carbs at bedtime can speed the release of brain chemical serotonin and assists to get a night of sound sleep, however, it is important to refrain from heavy meals before bad which can trigger heartburn, so have something light on the tummy. Try adding these foods and beverages into your daily diet plan that naturally uphold stress relief.