Image of a happy young woman eating a salad outside in a bright yellow t-shirt. When feeling anxious, people tend to do activities like yoga, meditation, or watch a funny movie. However, nutritionists suggest that diet can also affect mood. Here are 12 foods that can help with anxiety:
1. Dark chocolate: Contains magnesium which is linked to reducing depression and anxiety.
2. Salmon: High in omega-3 which can reduce stress and anxiety.
3. Chia seeds: Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and tryptophan to help reduce anxiety.
4. Avocados: Contain magnesium, tryptophan, omega-3 fatty acids, and B vitamins which can help regulate mood and reduce anxiety. Blueberries are known for their ability to reduce anxiety due to their high levels of antioxidants and vitamin C. These nutrients help reduce oxidative stress and remove excess cortisol from the body, ultimately lowering anxiety levels. Other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, and grapefruit also offer similar benefits. It’s important to choose fruits with lower sugar content to prevent spikes in blood sugar, which can contribute to increased stress.
Leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard, are rich in fiber, iron, folate, beta-carotene, and vitamin C. These nutrients support digestion, energy production, dopamine levels, and antioxidant levels, all of which help reduce anxiety and promote optimal brain function.
Yogurt, kefir, and other fermented foods like skyr are beneficial for gut health and mood support. Probiotics found in fermented foods can help regulate mood, control blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and lower cortisol, ultimately reducing anxiety and promoting overall well-being.
Lentils are a great source of fiber, which supports gut health and reduces inflammation. Short-chain fatty acids produced by healthy gut bacteria when they feed on fiber can help support a good mood and alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Matcha green tea is a healthy alternative to coffee, as it contains lower levels of caffeine and is rich in antioxidants like EGCG and L-theanine. These compounds have calming effects, reduce stress, improve memory, and promote relaxation, ultimately helping to reduce anxiety.
Pumpkin seeds are also recommended for reducing anxiety, as they contain various nutrients that support overall mental health and well-being.