Anxiety doesn’t have to rule your life.
If you suffer from anxiety, you know that it isn’t an easy problem to navigate. Excessive anxiety can lead to fear, tension, irritability, interpersonal issues, relationship issues, muscle tension, and elevated heart rate.
Chronic anxiety can be a factor in more serious health issues like hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
There are many treatments for anxiety, from behavioral therapy to medication. However, you diet can be a major factor in your overall health, so you can reduce your anxiety issues by changing your diet, and placing an emphasis on fruit, legumes, whole grains, vegetables, and lean proteins. Here are five anxiety-reducing foods to try today.
Vitamin D- Especially during the winter months, a vitamin D deficiency can increase both depression and anxiety. Getting enough sunlight, and taking a vitamin D supplement can do wonders for stress relief. In fact, you should take a vitamin D supplement while sitting in the sun. Double whammy!
READ MORE: Fight Stress by Eating? Try These Five Stress-reducing Foods
Fatty Fish- Omega-3 fatty acids play a huge role in mental health and cognition, and can help reduce anxiety, especially in people who suffer from substance abuse issues. Two servings of fatty fish should be enough to help regulate your mood.
Pumpkin Seeds- The potassium in pumpkin seeds can help regulated your blood pressure and electrolytes. Pumpkin seeds also contain zinc, which helps with emotions and mood.
Dark Chocolate- Dark chocolate contains polyphenols and flavonoids, which can help reduce inflammation and improve blood flow to the brain. It also contains tryptophan which an affect serotonin levels in the brain.
Chamomile Tea- Chamomile tea is anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and contains antioxidants. The act of drinking tea can also have a relaxing effect on the brain.