5 Foods to Reduce Anxiety

Did you know the food you eat is vital to support your positive mental health? By eating the right foods you can help reduce your anxiety levels and maintain your physical wellbeing at the same time. 

So, what’s the secret? Here are 5 foods to reduce anxiety:

1. Blueberries

Blueberries have been hailed as a super food for a number of reasons, one of them is they are great at reducing anxiety; they are full of a variety of anti-oxidants and phytonutrients proven to relieve stress. If you find fresh blueberries too expensive you can buy frozen blueberries in large supermarkets which are generally cheaper and taste lovely with yoghurt for breakfast. 

2. Maca Root

You may not have heard of maca root before, it is a plant and root vegetable which is native to Peru and Bolivia and it is related to the radish. Maca can be taken to enhance energy, stamina, anaemia and depression. You can buy maca root in powder form from most health food shops and it can be added to drinks and foods. 

3. Almonds

Almonds are a great source of zinc, a key nutrient for maintaining a balanced mood. They are also full of iron and healthy fats which are essential for a balanced diet as low iron levels have been known to cause brain fatigue which can contribute to anxiety. 

4. Seaweed

Seaweed has long been eaten all over the world for its health properties, especially in Asian diets. Seaweed is rich in protein, fibre and vitamins, specifically vitamin K and folic acid. Seaweed also has high magnesium content; magnesium deficiency is linked to anxiety. Check out these recipe ideas to help you incorporate this superfood into your diet. One of the best types of seaweed is Wakame, a seaweed with a ton of health benefits! You can learn more about this seaweed here.

5. Turkey

Turkey is stuffed full of the amino acid, tryptophan. This chemical signals to the brain to release the feel good hormone serotonin which makes you feel happy and relaxed. So this is why you always need a nap after Christmas dinner!

Sources:

http://www.mensfitness.com/nutrition/what-to-eat/eat-to-beat-stress-10-foods-that-reduce-anxiety 

If you like to prepare your meals at the weekend for nutritious lunches during the week, check out this list of freezer friendly recipes.