Anxiety is a general term for a myriad of disorders which cause nervousness, fear, apprehension, and worrying. These disorders affect how we feel and behave, and they can manifest real physical symptoms.
Anxiety can affect how we feel and behave, and can sometimes translate into physical symptoms.
If you deal with mild anxiety, you may not need medication.
When you start feeling anxious or overwhelmed, eating may do the trick to bring you the peace you need.
…if you eat the right foods.
Here is a list of six top foods to reduce your stress, and anxiety while improving your mood, and making you feel better overall.
1. Vitamin B: Foods rich in Vitamin B will increase serotonin production. Serotonin is a chemical in the brain which is vital for happiness.
What foods should you look to for Vitamin B? How about a steak? Beef, legumes, and leafy greens are some of the best choices.
2. Eggs: Eggs are also high in Vitamin B, and have been know to reduce anxiety and stress. Poached, fried, scrambled, boiled, the choice is yours. Enjoy!
Avocados are similar to eggs, and very rich in B vitamins.
3. Green Tea: This wonderdrink has many calming properties, including L-theanine.
L-theanine reduces anxiety, stress and anger, by causing the brain to produce more serotonin.
4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These are the good kind of fats. Omega-3’s work as an anti-inflammatory for the brain, easing tension and anxiety.
Foods rich in Omega-3’s, include walnuts, salmon, cauliflower, flax seeds, soy beans, and shrimp.
5. Probiotic foods: Foods with probiotics have been shown to lower anxiety and improve mood.
What foods are probiotic? Yogurt, soft cheeses, pickles, and sourdough. I sense a sandwich in your future. I would recommend having the yogurt on the side.
6. Whole Wheat Grains: Carbohydrates in general boost serotonin production, reducing anxious feelings, and stressful mood.
Opt for whole wheat, because it will take your body longer to process, releasing the serotonin over a longer period of time.
What are some foods you should avoid?
Alcohol: Yes, a cocktail can take the immediate edge off, but the way it is digested can leave you feeling edgy and anxious.
Alcohol can also interfere with your sleep, which leaves anyone a little more edgy.
Unrefined Sugars And Sweets: Sugars such as candy, table sugar, and corn syrup are processed very quickly, giving you the “sugar rush”, but then wears off just as fast, leaving you feeling tired, and low.