Life and work: how do you balance it? For most, it can seem impossible. Stress can build up more and more each day when you don’t know the source of the issue and how to fix it. The truth is though, when it comes to your well-being, you are what you eat. If you’re feeling sluggish at work or struggling to get to the gym, it could be your diet causing you to live your life in slow-motion.
The good news is that there are foods actually known to reduce stress. Incorporating these into your diet every day can make you feel less stressed and more prepared to take on your day, no matter what it brings.
Here are 5 foods that may help!
1. Citrus fruits
Do you know the fruits considered citrus? If so, how often do you consume them? Lemons, limes, grapefruits, and oranges are great additions to any meal. Not only that, they make for some extremely tasty diffused water without any added sugar.
These fruits are high in vitamin C which can boost your immune system and lower your stress levels. Consider cooking a meal with lemon or having an orange for your afternoon snack today!
2. Sweet potatoes
Sweet potatoes are loaded with magnesium. While this is an essential mineral needed for the body to function properly, it’s also known to reduce stress and anxiety!
They’re an easy addition to any meal and even help curb your sweet tooth since they often double as a dessert. Sprinkle some cinnamon on top for an added treat!
3. Turkey
While we mostly associate turkey with Thanksgiving and that post-holiday sleepy feeling, this meat is great year-round for sandwiches, the main course, or even in soup.
Tryptophan is found in Turkey and is known to boost serotonin levels and relieve tension. No wonder we all need a nap after Thanksgiving dinner!
4. Spinach
Spinach and other leafy greens are full of folate, which produces dopamine in the brain, thus giving off a calming effect.
This may be the reason kids never want to eat their greens! Nonetheless, you can attempt to make vegetables more appealing by adding them into other dishes, such dip for your favorite chips or even into a mixed salad.
5. Salmon
Salmon contains DHA, which, in Omega 3 Fats, helps nourish the brain by eliminating stress hormones. The great thing about salmon is it’s also very healthy! Experiment with recipes and see how you best like it cooked.
What do you think? Shocked by any of these excellent stress reducing foods?
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