This week it’s foods to combat stress from Kat’s Kitchen to help deal with the pressures……..
These foods are varied and all help in different ways – and are easy to include into your every day diet. There are choices for everyone, taking into account your dietary preferences and likes. Read on and see which foods you can include more of to help soothe and calm yourself during difficult times.
Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate is perhaps the most sought for indulgent pick me up! Dark chocolate in the diet can reduce stress due to its emotional and chemical impact. It feels great when eating it which immediately improves the mood! It is also rich is antioxidants which help reduce the levels of stress hormones in the body. Enjoy in moderation and chose chocolate which doesn’t have extra amounts of sugar added.
Herbal teas to warm you through
Sipping a hot drink can often make you feel better and instil a sense of calmness. Drinking and holding a warm drink can increase feelings of warmth and friendliness. Certain herbs like lavender and chamomile are particularly good as having a relaxing effect of their own.
If you need a hit of caffeine green tea is good as its full of flavonoids which support brain health. They can also protect neurons from injury and promote memory, learning and brain functions.
Whole Grains
Carbohydrates can increase the levels of serotonin which is the ‘feel-good’ hormone which improves the mood and helps fight stress levels. Eating unrefined carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes and whole grains help with concentration levels and focus. Swapping out ‘white’ carbohydrates for these whole grain options in cakes, biscuits, cookies is a great diet choice to make to help calm your mood.
Healthy fats
Avocados are full of stress busting omega 3 fatty acids which reduce stress and anxiety levels. They also boost concentration and improve mood levels. Avocados also include fibre, phytochemicals and essential nutrients and their consumption has been linked to a decrease in metabolic syndrome. This is a condition which includes high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels and levels of obesity which increase the prospect of heart disease.