Foods To Eat When You Are Stressed?

We are currently passing through possibly the deadliest pandemics the earth has ever faced- COVID-19 or the CoronaVirus. While the pandemic has brought everything to a halt, it has been long since we are locked inside the four walls of our houses because the outdoors aren't safe without a PPE kit, mask and sanitizer. It is understood that such times bring with them trauma and stress which later turn into depression which can go for a long period. Staying at home 24*7, not being able to meet our beloved ones, party like we used to do before and being behind a mask is tough. One must make sure that self love is very important and mental health is the first priority. In order to avoid stress and anxiety getting onto your nerves, you must resort to your favorite foods because they never fail to make you happy. Just for an example who would not like chocolate irrespective of the mood. In this blog we've covered some foods you can eat when you feel stressed or when your schedule is too tiring. 

1. HERBAL TEA

Herbal Tea is one of the best solutions for killing stress. The best part about herbal teas is the plethora of varieties it has. Peppermint tea, Chamomile tea, Lavender tea, Kava tea, Valerian tea, Gotu kola tea, Lemon balm tea and Passion flower tea are some of the most common herbal teas which people use. Studies show that herbal tea is effective in aiding with relaxation, and also helping with anxiety, depression, and insomnia. Of course, since it is made with herbs, it's not going to have as strong of an effect on a person's anxiety but since it cools you down, you feel better instantly. 

2. OATMEAL

If you're already a carb lover, it's likely that nothing can come between you and a doughnut when stress hits. First rule of thumb- Don't completely deny the craving and get some oatmeal. Various researches and studies show that carbohydrates can help the brain make serotonin, the same brain chemical that is regulated by certain antidepressants. But instead of reaching for that sugary bear claw, go for complex carbs and eat a bowl of oatmeal whenever you get stressed out. 

3. DARK CHOCOLATE 

Dark Chocolate is not only very appealing for our taste buds but also extremely healthy for our bodies. Dark Chocolate Improves Memory, Reduces Stress. Studies show that eating dark chocolate can change your brain waves frequency, providing benefits in memory improvement and stress reduction. It is well-known to most people with a sweet tooth that dark chocolate can be a healthier indulgence since it contains more cocoa and less sugar in comparison to the normal chocolate bars. 

4. WARM MILK

A cup of warm milk has always been the secret ingredient behind our health. Needless to say that milk is extraordinarily pure and nutritious and has healing power. Milk is an excellent source of vitamin D, which is thought to boost happiness. People who had sufficient vitamin D levels had a reduced risk of panic disorders compared to subjects with the lowest levels of vitamin D. Other foods high in vitamin D include salmon, egg yolks, and fortified cereal.

5. GREEN LEAFY VEGETABLES 

Nothing beats the power of green leafy veggies when it comes to self love and taking care of ourselves by feeding self with green leafy vegetables which come with tons of nutrients and antioxidants which are well known to decrease stress in the long term and help lead a happier life and reduce panic attacks. Green leafy vegetables like spinach contain folate, which produces dopamine, a pleasure-inducing brain chemical, helping you keep calm and more energetic on days you eat more fruits and veggies. 

6. BANANA

Bananas are a very good source of potassium, fiber, and carbohydrates. This combination of carbohydrates and fiber provides a long lasting source of energy. Due to this the body starts feeling calm. In fact, according to one small study, people who ate bananas regularly performed equally to those who consumed sports drinks during a 47-mile time trial. The researchers concluded that bananas are a good source of energy, specifically before and during long periods of exercise.

7. LUKEWARM WATER

Many a times the most important reason behind depression and stress is absence of enough water in the body. Water is a necessity undoubtedly and in our busy lifestyles, we tend to consume a lot of food, especially junk everyday and forget to drink ample amounts of water which would facilitate its digestion and hydration for the body. When the body is not able to digest the food properly, there is problematic bowel movement and other problems such as dehydration which causes stress and other problems. Therefore everyone must drink at least 3 to 4 litres of water everyday in order to stay hydrated. 

8. EGG

A typical egg contains 7 grams  of protein. It also provides 4% of the recommended daily intake of calcium and 6% of the recommended daily intake of vitamin A. A normal person can consume at least 4-5 eggs in a day in the form of egg salad, egg curry and other dishes. Eggs are also a source of fats. According to the National Institute on Aging, fat provides energy and helps the body absorb vitamins. If a person is feeling low and stressed the warmth eggs provide to the body increase the energy levels in the body. 

THE BOTTOM LINE

To conclude, one must try to keep themselves engaged in interesting activities and pursue their hobbies which they might have left long ago due to their hectic schedule. Stress and anxiety have become so common nowadays that people don't even understand what is happening with them. Mood swings and food swings are very common when you're stressed. This blog post provides info about some foods which can help you in combating stress levels since what you eat may actually help relieve your tension. Some foods may help stabilize your hormones which might be causing tension and anxiety. Also, drinking lots of water is the key to a smiling face and healthy life.