Foods to Reduce and Eliminate Stress

Nowadays we live in a more demanding and stressful world than ever. Stress is all over, at home, at work and even on our minds. Stress can weaken you body immune system and expose you to a higher risk of contracting chronic disease. Chronic stress can contribute to body fatigue by causing a variation in glucose level. Knowing the most excellent stress reducing foods can assist you in combating stress.

Food helps in fighting stress in many ways. First, it boosts the level of serotonin. Serotonin is one of the chemical in the brain that assists in calming the body in times of chronic stress. Food also reduces the levels of adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline and cortisol are hormones that manage stress. Food can help offset the impact of stress in your body. Here are some of the most recommended stress reducing foods.

Lentils or Beans - lentils and Beans are high in protein and fiber content. They can nourish your body and eliminate craving caused by stress. Lentils contain magnesium which helps to calm your mind and relax the body
Avocados - Avocados are rich potassium more than any other fruit. Potassium helps to regulate blood pressure. So when you are stressed you need to eat a piece of avocado to reduce the pressure of your blood.
Apple -You can eat one or two apples when you are in stress. Apples are full of fiber which helps in filling stomach, hence reducing cravings. You will also get an instant boost of energy and nutrients because apples are easily digested by the body. Furthermore, apples are also known for blood sugar regulation
Blueberry - Blueberry is full vitamin C and antioxidants. Antioxidants help to get rid of free radical that causes early aging and heart infections. Prolonged stress can cause a decrease in Vitamin C level. So replenishing it helps to reduce stress.
Milk - Milk is rich in calcium, antioxidants as well vitamins B2 and B12. Calcium helps in soothing tension, reducing muscle spasms, and easing anxiety cause by stress. It is recommended you take skim milk.
Nuts - nuts contain vitamins B2 and minerals such zinc and magnesium. Zinc and magnesium regulates cortisol level in the blood. Cortisol is a stress hormone. Zinc fights stress.
Complex Carbohydrates - A stressed body craves carbohydrates. Simple carbohydrates have extra calories without nutritional value, so it is advisable to avoid them. However, complex carbohydrates are consumed slowly and hence help in stabilizing blood sugar level. They are one of the most common stress reducing foods. When you feed on them your brain increases the production of serotonin, a chemical that relieves stress.
Oranges - Oranges contain vitamin C. Vitamin C helps to boost the immune system after being affected by stress.
Iron - you can find Iron in foods such as red meat and spinach. When you eat these foods you will boost up your energy and cool your mind.
Fish - Cold water fish like tuna and salmon are among the most recommended stress reducing foods. They are rich in fatty acids. These fatty acids contain amino acids that help the brain in reducing stress. They also contain vitamins B6 and B12, which assist the brain to make serotonin.