6 Foods to Reduce Stress and Nourish the Body

 

Stress is a fact of life. But it doesn't have to be the enemy. When you're stressed, your body releases adrenaline and cortisol--the hormones that help us respond quickly when we need to run from danger or fight off an attacker. These hormones are good for survival but can cause problems if they're released too often or in high amounts over long periods of time.

In addition to increasing your risk for heart disease and diabetes, chronic stress also has been linked with depression, anxiety disorders and other mental health issues like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
If you're feeling overwhelmed by your daily life--or just want some extra support during stressful times--there are several foods that may help reduce stress levels naturally:

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a great food to reduce stress because it's high in fiber and complex carbohydrates, which help regulate blood sugar. It's also rich in vitamins and minerals that are essential for keeping your body healthy during times of stress.

Blueberries

Blueberries are high in antioxidants, which help protect against oxidative stress. They also boost the immune system and can even help fight cancer cells. Blueberries are a great food to eat when you're feeling stressed out because they provide you with an energy boost that lasts for hours!
Blueberries have been shown to improve memory, cognition and brain function overall. They contain anthocyanins which have been shown to reduce inflammation in the body while also helping prevent cardiovascular disease by lowering cholesterol levels. The high fiber content of blueberries helps keep things moving through your digestive tract smoothly so there's no constipation or bloating associated with eating too many of these tasty treats!

Almonds

Almonds are rich in magnesium, which is a mineral that helps reduce stress hormones and relax your muscles. They're also high in healthy fats and fiber, which can help you feel full longer. If you're looking for an afternoon snack that will give you energy without weighing you down or causing digestive issues, almonds are the way to go!

Salmon

Salmon is one of the best foods to eat when you're stressed. It's high in omega-3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and can even improve your mood by boosting serotonin production (serotonin is a neurotransmitter that makes us feel happy). The protein found in salmon also helps build muscle mass and prevent muscle breakdown during times of stress--this can help you stay strong through difficult circumstances.

Yogurt

Yogurt is a probiotic food that helps improve gut health, which can help you feel less stressed. It's also rich in calcium and vitamin B12, two nutrients that help reduce anxiety and depression.

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is a great source of antioxidants, which are known to reduce stress hormones and improve mood. It's also rich in magnesium, which can help you relax by lowering blood pressure and reducing anxiety.
When choosing dark chocolate, look for varieties that contain at least 70 percent cocoa solids (the higher the percentage, the less sugar). You can also try adding some nuts or seeds to your favorite brand of plain chocolate bars--this will add extra protein!

The foods that you eat can have a huge impact on your health, both physical and mental. Stress is one of the most common causes of illness in our society today, so it's important to take steps to reduce stress if you want to live a healthy life. The six foods listed above are all known for their ability to reduce stress and nourish the body at the same time. By incorporating these foods into your diet regularly, you'll be able to enjoy better overall health while reducing your stress. levels at home or work!