More and more people strive these days to keep stress and anxiety at bay. Anxiety has increasingly become one of the most crippling illnesses of our time, alongside depression. More than 18% of the American population is now affected by anxiety disorder and the numbers are growing.
There are many methods people are using to try and keep these mental issues under control. Some go to psychotherapy, others have tried relaxing activities such as yoga or meditation. Others choose to unwind through art, whether it’s dancing, painting or writing.
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However, not many people know that what we eat can greatly affect our moods and mental state. Science has now clear evidence that there is a strong link between our gut health and our well-being. Here are the 10 foods that will alleviate your anxiety.
Best Foods For Anxiety
Blueberries
These little bluish wonders are packed with antioxidants and vitamins. Tiny as they are, they are the superfood you need to boost your mood right away. They are particularly rich in Vitamin C. Read more about this amazing fruit here.
Almonds
These will also help you a lot with stress reduction. They are the healthiest snack you could have as they are rich in B vitamins and magnesium. These help produce the chemical that regulates our mood and relieves anxiety – serotonin.
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Avocado
Avocados are rich in Vitamin B12 which helps us fight stress and reduce feelings of anxiety. You can try this superfruit in almost anything you like. Enjoy!
Turkey
This is yet another food that will help you combat stress. So if you crave for some turkey, go ahead. Your gut will thank you.
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Kefir
Because it’s full of probiotics, this food will keep your gut happy and healthy. You can drink it (it’s delicious too), use it as a salad dressing or try kefir cheese.
Salmon
It is recommended to consume fish at least two times a week. Because it’s rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, salmon will lower your stress and help you fight depression. You can also try fish oil supplements, especially if you don’t like fish.
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Asparagus
This one is packed with folic acid which are also essential for our mental health. Studies have shown a link between low levels of folic acid and depression. So bring on the asparagus!
Turmeric
This yellow spice is amazing for our brains. You can easily add it to rice, egg scrambles or vegetables. You will certainly not regret it.
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Tea
Whether it’s green tea or chamomile tea, its effects are undeniable. We all knew how soothing a warm cup of tea can be, but now there is scientific proof to back this up. Drinking a cup of chamomile tea before bed will help you relax and sleep better.
Dark chocolate
Dessert time. Dark chocolate is the healthiest type of chocolate there is. Because it’s rich in antioxidants, it will also significantly decrease your stress levels.
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