Reduce Stress Naturally with the Stress-Buster Diet Plan
In America these days, people experience the tiniest hint of depression or anxiety and turn immediately to generic Prozac or Valium. And for some people, those may be the right solution, but for many, there are natural solutions that will work just as well, and everyone should try those first before turning to drugs.
Many foods have a physiological effect on the body’s ability to manage stress. Eating a diet rich in vitamins and minerals is a good way to naturally balance out the body and brain’s kinks, those little (and large) things that can stress us out and make us crave stability and groundedness.
- Stress Busting Nutrients
Antioxidants -Antioxidant phytonutrients will prevent cell damage which sometimes occurs because of stress. Antioxidant-rich foods include colorful fruits and veggies, including red peppers, carrots, leafy green vegetables, and berries.
Carbohydrates – Good carbs can produce serotonin, a chemical released by the brain that can induce calm. Good carbs will also help curb sugar cravings. Good carbohydrates, also known as complex carbohydrates, are found in whole grain breads, brown rice, and oatmeal.
Magnesium – Magnesium is a mineral electrolyte that relaxes muscles. You can find magnesium in nuts, spinach, black beans, and whole grains.
Potassium – This mineral and electrolyte will help induce calm by regulating blood pressure. Potassium-rich foods include bananas, avocados, and yogurt.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids – Omega-3 fatty acids will also help regulate blood pressure, which can calm a stressed-out body. Salmon is the fatty-acid queen. Flax seeds come in second place.