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Did you know some foods can actually help you reduce stress? Let’s look at 4 foods that can reduce stress.
The stressors of the outside world have a direct impact on the internal workings of our bodies. Stress affects our mind, body, and spirit.
When we perceive stress, our brains release certain hormones to address the “threat.” While these hormones are needed in order to live, too much stress can result in high levels of stress hormones – which can wreak havoc on our bodies.
Adrenaline and cortisol are two hormones that your body releases when stressed. Too much of either can cause health issues.
On the flip side, dopamine and serotonin are two hormones that increase your feelings of happiness and wellbeing. The release or increase of these hormones can relieve stress and boost your mood.
We can’t always control the stressors or our bodies’ reactions – but interestingly enough – there are actually foods that can aid our body in handling and reducing stress!
4 Stress-Reducing Foods:
✔️ Tahini
Tahini is a Middle Eastern butter made from ground, toasted sesame seeds. Tahini is rich in amino acids – including L-tryptophan. Your body converts L-tryptophan into serotonin. You can even grab some tahini on Amazon! Need some recipes using tahini?
✔️ Chickpeas
Chickpeas are a type of legume. Chickpeas are rich in L-tryptophan. They also have a high level of magnesium – a mineral that our bodies need in order to combat stress. Chronic stress can result in depleted levels of magnesium. Lots of people enjoy chickpeas as a snack.
✔️ Blueberries
Blueberries are a low-calorie, vitamin-packed fruit. Antioxidants found in blueberries reduce the negative impact that stress can have on our bodies (inflammation, cell damage) and can boost your mood too.
✔️ Avocados
Avocados are rich in potassium. When we feel stress, the release of stress hormones often increases our blood pressure. Potassium can lower blood pressure.
These 4 foods can reduce stress and give “stress-eating” a whole new definition! 😉
Do you know of any other “stress-relieving” foods?
Want to know which foods help to build your immune system?