Are you constantly stressed out? Looking for the best ways to relax and stay healthy? If so, you’re not alone. Approximately 33 percent of Americans feel they are dealing with extreme stress. Common causes include excessive workload, money problems, lack of job security, and ineffective communication. Some people fight stress by exercising or meditating. Others indulge in binge eating, which can lead to weight gain and poor health.
Next time you’re under stress, don’t reach for chips and cookies. Eat these foods instead:
Avocado
Research shows that avocado fights stress and regulates blood pressure. This low sugar fruit is packed with fatty acids that promote cardiovascular health. The monounsaturated fats in avocado also prevent insulin spikes, so you’ll have steady energy throughout the day.
Green Leafy Vegetables
Kale, spinach, broccoli, collard greens and other veggies contain folate, which wards off stress and depression. A study conducted on 2,800 seniors has shown that those who consumed the most folate had the lowest risk of depression. On top of that, leafy greens are healthy and low in calories.
Asparagus
Asparagus is best known for its slimming effects. This vegetable has diuretic properties and helps reduce water retention. It’s also a great source of folic acid, a vitamin that lifts your mood and enhances your body’s ability to fight stress.
Whole Grains
Oats, wheat, barley and other whole grains are rich in complex carbohydrates, which raise serotonin levels. They are slowly digested and help stabilize blood sugar levels, boosting your mood. The same goes for brown rice and whole pasta.
Dark Chocolate
This delicious treat boosts endorphin production in your body, leaving you happy and energized. Studies have found that dark chocolate contains over 300 natural compounds that promote brain health and fight depression. Anandamide, one of its key ingredients, mimics marijuana’s effects on your brain, which helps reduce stress.
