10 Foods to Help You Cope with Stress

Stressed Out? Here's What to Eat!

K. Giddings
There are many seasons in our life when we are going through rough times. It's during these times that you may want to turn to junk foods to fill the issues you're going through. DON'T DO IT! Get yourself back in control by eating foods that will nourish and heal the stress. There are foods that will boost your mood and help get you through the rough patches life deals us all! Good nutrition is important when you are under a lot of stress. So here are some foods to munch on when you are stressed out.

1. Blueberries are delicious! There is nothing like a summertime handful of freshly picked blueberries. And they are so good for you! They are rich in antioxidants and fiber yet low in calories. They contain vitamin C, which is known to help with stress. If you cannot get them fresh, frozen blueberries are fine. Blueberries go great in yogurt, on cereal or just on their own.

2. Almonds are a crunchy snack that delivers stress fighting Vitamin B2 and Vitamin E, magnesium and zinc. Although they contain fat, it's the good fat that is unsaturated fat, which makes them filling. They are excellent to combat heart disease and the Vitamin E has been shown to fight the free radicals associated with stress.

3. Asparagus is a delicious green vegetable, which is high in folic acid, which stabilizes the mood. Asparagus is delicious when prepared on the grill in the summertime or steamed anytime! And like most veggies it's low in calories!

4. Cereal such as Cornflakes or Rice Krispies is fortified with Vitamin B and Folic acid, which reduces stress. And when you need something with some substance grab a bowl and have a little milk or almond milk on it. You will feel better in no time. Cereal is also delicious dry as a snack anytime of the day.

5. Tuna is not only tasty in sandwiches and salads but also a great stress reliever! It's a low fat protein source that is high in Vitamins B6 and B12.

6. Sushi is yummy! You don't need to give up lunch at your favorite sushi place; in fact eating Sushi has many benefits. Maki rolls that contain seaweed have anxiety fighting properties. One important nutrient is pantothenic acid; a deficiency in this can lead to anxiety and lower your immune system. So pass the Wasabi because Sushi is good for you!

7. Bananas are a great pick me up food. They will boost your energy. Because bananas are a peel and eat food, they are quick and easy to take along with you anywhere. Unlike many fruits that often are seasonal, banana are quite easy to find anytime of the year.

8. Hot water , yes hot water is a stress reliever. Simply boil your water, pour into a cup, and top off with a bit of cold water and you have a home remedy for stress that works. It is a known cleansing and relaxation agent. It is great for alleviating stress or a queasy stomach.

9. Dark Chocolate does have some natural antioxidants in it. You do need to be careful not to overdue it on chocolate but it does have it's benefits in reducing stress and can satisfy your sweet tooth. Limit your daily intake to one lovely ounce a day to help take your stress away!

10. Eggs are obviously a great source of protein but also contain many vitamins. Eggs can help prevent stress by keeping your serotonin level which prevents your mood from fluctuating, keeping you even keeled. Eggs can be eaten in many different ways. Keeping some hard boiled eggs in the fridge offer you a quick snack.

You can control and even treat anxiety and stress with good nutrition and nutrient dense whole foods that offer many health benefits. Other important factors to consider besides nutrition in reducing your stress are sleep, exercise and meditation or quiet time. Only you can prevent yourself from burn out so take time to care for yourself!

Published by K. Giddings

She holds her Masters degree in Social Work and is a licensed Social Worker. She is an expert in relationships, parenting, seniors and family issues. Currently she also is an Independent Scentsy Consultant....  View profile

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