Feeling overwhelmed at work? Or maybe you’re having personal problems? Daily stress can wreak havoc on your health, leading to heart disease, anxiety, depression, and premature aging. Over time, it can turn into chronic stress and affect every system in your body. Fortunately, it is possible to control stress through diet, exercise, and meditation. So the next time you’re feeling overwhelmed, put these foods on your plate:
Bananas
Loaded with potassium, bananas keep your blood pressure low and relieve tension. These flavor-packed fruits will improve your mood and give you the energy needed to fight stress. Due to their high tryptophan content, they increase serotonin levels in the brain, making you happier.
Spinach
Rich in magnesium, spinach boosts your energy and helps promote a sense of calm. This green vegetable can have a comforting effect and induce relaxation. It also increases immunity and enhances your body’s ability to fight stress.
Nuts
Just like spinach, nuts are high in magnesium, fiber, and antioxidants. Magnesium lowers cortisol levels and calms your mind. Cortisol, the stress hormone, has been associated with an increased risk of heart disease, obesity, metabolic disorders, and cancer. By keeping it under control, you’ll be happier and live a longer life. The next time you’re stressed out, snack on a handful of nuts.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is high in cocoa, which increases endorphin levels. This healthy treat contains more than 300 compounds that mimic marijuana’s effects on the brain, promoting relaxation. They also lift your mood and ward off depression. To reap their benefits, eat dark chocolate with at least 70 percent cocoa.
Asparagus
Research indicates that low levels of folic acid can affect your body’s ability to deal with stress. If your diet lacks this vitamin, you may feel depressed and experience mood swings. Asparagus, one of the best sources of folic acid, can boost you mood and relieve stress. This veggie also has mild diuretic effects and helps reduce fluid retention, so it’s ideal for dieters.
