What should we eat for instant stress relief? Ever wonder why we tend to crave certain foods when we are stressed out? It’s because they actually help calm our nerves. We are living in extremely troubling times, needless to say 2020 has been the most stress inducing year globally. A lot of things are out of our control, but there are a few things that can be done to help mitigate the stress. Here is a list of 8 secret foods for instant stress relief:
Looking for some color inspo to help calm you down? Here’s a post to help you with that!
1. Water for instant stress relief
Water is not really food but it is the most important on this list. Dehydration has a link to a rise in cortisol levels, cortisol is a hormone that increases stress and anxiety in people. Drinking water keeps the body hydrated, and that is going to reduce symptoms of anxiety that come from dehydration. It is cold in most of the world right now, and it is easy to forget to drink water. I recommend always keeping a glass or bottle of water with you. It has helped me drink more water than I normally did.
2. Oranges for instant stress relief
Oranges are rich in Vitamin C, this famous fruit has been a subject of several studies that suggest that vitamins can help reduce stress inducing hormones and result in a healthy immune system. Eating oranges and other citrus fruits, like lemons, grapefruits, limes, tangerines, clementine, help keep your blood pressure in control during stressful situations.
3. Spinach for instant stress relief
Spinach? Yes, Popeye was not kidding with this leafy, green, not so delicious vegetable. Spinach may not give you instant biceps that will help you save Olive Oyl for the 100th time, but this fabulous leaf is filled with the goodness of magnesium. This secret food for instant stress relief will help you keep those pesky headaches at bay, energize you for the home life and reduce stress.
4. Milk for instant stress relief
Milk for stress relief? I always say, when in doubt, go back in time and learn from the age-old traditions. Our forefathers knew a thing or two about stress as well. Something tells me it might have been a lot lesser than the 2020 stress but nonetheless, it was something. A warm glass of milk instantly provides a warm, cozy feeling. Milk has a protein that is known to soothe the mind, body, and soul. I would recommend, adding a teaspoon of hot chocolate to this warm cup of delight for higher gratification.
5. Herbal Tea for instant stress relief
While we are talking about beverages, Tea that is low in caffein is a great way to destress that exhausted, overthinking mind of yours. Need instant stress relief? Try a cup of tea with honey, or a sweetener of your choice if you cannot have unsweetened tea. It is like a hug in a cup. I would highly recommend peppermint or chamomile tea.
6. Cashews for instant stress relief
Cashews are rich in Vitamin B6 and magnesium, these nuts are known to regulate the nervous system and help lighten the mood. Not to mention, they are delicious. Warning: These nuts are extremely addictive and high in fat so do not eat more than 1/4th of a cup of this instant stress relief food.
7. Dark Chocolate for instant stress relief
It was discovered about a decade ago that eating chocolate is not such a bad thing after all, especially when it is dark chocolate. According to studies from Loma Linda University in California, dark chocolate helps with the mood swings, inflammation, immunity, and memory. Dark chocolate, with at least 70 per cent cacao, is another great addition to this list of 8 secret foods for instant stress relief.
8. Turmeric for instant stress relief
Turmeric: Studies have suggested that consuming more turmeric resulted in reduced stress. This yellow spice is a staple in every kitchen in India and been the subject of several researches. It is super easy to add a pinch of turmeric to just about anything – Meals, rice, smoothies, tea, coffee, milk. It has little flavor and I personally enjoy the fresh orange color it leaves behind. A pinch of turmeric goes a long way. Increasing the consumption of turmeric can lead to lowering anxiety.
Wrapping Up
Our diet has an incredible impact on how we feel in our day to day lives. A balanced diet, with the right quantity of vitamins, minerals and rich in antioxidants can impact how we feel throughout the day, and if continued, even month and year. Of course, it is important to strike a balance between what we should eat and what we want to eat. Sometimes, giving in to those high sugar cravings is all the secret we need to feel instant stress relief.
For every other time, there’s Mastercard? Nah, there is this list that can help you calm those nerves. Also, do not forget to hit the snooze button. Nothing like a good night’s sleep to relax and rejuvinate. Click here for ways to sleep when stressed out.