6 Stress Busting Foods
Apr-18-2015

Nature has provided us with foods that are known to have calming effects. There are also certain combinations of foods that can leave you feeling not just something close to blissful, but satisfied and nourished as well. For the most part, calming foods are easy to digest and contain nutrients that can relax the nervous system or boost mood in some way. Here are a few suggestions on how to naturally promote relaxation and stress relief through food and drink, and infuse some Zen into this time of year.

Tryptophan rich foods! This essential amino acid, found in protein-containing foods, helps produce serotonin, which can elevate your mood and ward off depression. Serotonin also helps promote adequate sleep. On its own, tryptophan may have a calming effect. Combining tryptophan-containing foods with complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, increases absorption and aids in the production of serotonin. In addition to turkey, foods that contain high levels of tryptophan include shrimp, spinach, chicken, tuna, soybeans, milk, salmon, and eggs. Vegetables like asparagus, broccoli, and cauliflower are also great tryptophan sources.

Chamomile, another very popular relaxation aid, has been used since ancient times and is known to promote general relaxation and relieve stress. Chamomile tea has been used a mild sleep aid and can help with digestion. Its leaves can be found dried as tea and has a very pleasant and calming aroma.

Omega-3s, try eating food that are rich in omega-3 fatty acid, such as walnuts, salmon, sardines, flax seed, chia seeds, herring, mackerel, and omega-3 fortified eggs. Omega-3 is an essential fatty acid that is needed for optimal brain health. Omega-3s also have an anti-inflammatory effect that may help in pain relief, and helping to regulate the negative effects of stress hormones.

Zinc rich foods such as spinach, lamb, and grass-fed beef can also have a calming effect, as they help to stabilize metabolic rate, balance blood sugar, and aid in the optimal function of the immune system. Zinc is a trace mineral, essential for growth and development of all cells in our bodies, and thus a deficiency can lead to a litany of problems. Other good sources of zinc include calf's liver, shrimp, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, and crimini mushrooms.

Seeds. Flaxseed, pumpkin seeds, and sunflower seeds are all great sources of magnesium as are leafy greens, yogurt, nuts and fish. Loading up on magnesium may help regulate emotions. It's been shown to help alleviate depression, fatigue and fight irritability. Magnesium is often referred to as the relaxation mineral and is essential to over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body.

Stay hydrated! Water is essential for every function in the body, but during busy days it's one of the easiest things to forget. Drinking at least 8 ounces of water with each meal can help supply adequate energy, relieve headaches and head congestion, and generally help you think straight during hectic holiday times. It also helps with proper digestion. Drink plenty of filtered water throughout the day to remain hydrated, and feeling calm and healthy.

If you're feeling especially anxious, try decreasing your caffeine intake, and limit coffee and tea drinking to earlier in the day. Remember, some sodas and diet sodas also contain caffeine, sometimes in significant amounts, so read labels carefully. Caffeine speeds up the action of both the nervous system and other major body systems. It can also increase the level of adrenaline in your blood, which triggers an increase in heart rate, breathing rate, production of stomach acids, and urinary output. If you can, try to avoid artificially sweetened and sugary beverages altogether-they won't hydrate you as well as water and can contribute to stress.

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Posted by Ken at 12:00 AM - Link to this entry  |  Share this entry  |  Print