4 Foods That Help With Anxiety
Got anxiety? Seems like a rhetorical question these days, right?!
Anxiety is an innate condition (vs stress which is a response to external factors) that involves neurotransmitter dysregulation, hormonal imbalance, gut dysfunction, and a host of other factors. It's an acute or long term biological condition where the body can't calm itself down. Chronic stress can turn into anxiety as the body becomes more inflamed. So in a nutshell...it's important to address. And surprise, surprise - one the best ways we can do that is through your nutrition practices!
Certain foods have the ability to help restore the balance of our neurotransmitters by providing our bodies with building blocks. Here are 4 foods that research shows may help with anxiety:
Salmon 🍣
Omega-3 fatty acids have the ability to easily travel through the brain cell membrane and interact molecules related to mood. They also act as an anti-inflammatory which may help relieve depression and counteract some of the negative effects of stress hormones.
Yogurt🥣
Eating probiotic foods can benefit the microbiota by enhancing its function. Neurotransmitters are synthesized and regulated via the microbiome, which impacts everything from how much serotonin you have in your system to pain sensitivity.
Eggs 🥚
Eggs provide long lasting energy and are packed with vitamins and minerals known to aid in brain function and mood regulation. Specifically, eggs contain choline and vitamin D, which are essential for producing acetylcholine and serotonin, neurotransmitters that stabilize mood, reduce stress, and help with sleep.
Almonds🥜
Inadequate magnesium reduces serotonin levels in your brain. Almonds contain magnesium, which may help build more serotonin levels, which, in turn, may help alleviate depression, fatigue, and irritability. BONUS: Almonds are also a source of healthy fats and fiber that promote gut health!
So, what’s the big picture takeaway here? Food doesn’t just affect your physical health, it also affects how your mind works! It is so important to remember that if you eat well, choosing nutrient dense foods with lots of vitamins, minerals and nutrients that your body can use, you will have the ability to improve not just how you feel in your clothes, but also your general sense of wellbeing in life.
Cheers!
