Many people question whether foods reduce anxiety, depression. Please take note that healthy eating is paramount for our overall wellness. Usually, food and mental health go hand in hand. Consuming a nutrient-rich diet containing vegetable and fruit varieties and other healthy, balanced foods can help manage anxiety and its symptoms.
This article gives in-depth information about eating to help anxiety.
9 Foods That Help Reduce Anxiety
The list provided below of nine food types are believed to help reduce anxiety levels.
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Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Fish such as salmon are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Other fatty fishes include sardines, mackerel, herring, and trout. Omega-3 fatty acids are strongly connected to mental health and cognitive function. They offer protective benefits to the brain and nervous system. For instance, they contain plenty of vitamins A and D that help calm the brain.
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Eggs
Eggs are an excellent and complete source of protein and a good source of vitamin D. They contain the essential amino acids that create serotonin. This chemical neurotransmitter helps regulate sleep, behaviour, mood, and memory. Studies reveal that serotonin helps relieve anxiety and improves the overall functioning of the brain.
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Pumpkin Seeds
According to Medical News Today, foods rich in potassium, such as pumpkin seeds, are an excellent diet for depression and anxiety. Pumpkin seeds can help to significantly lower symptoms of depression and anxiety and could also improve cases of mood disorders in some people.
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Turmeric
Turmeric is a good ingredient for an anxiety-depression diet. Curcumin, the active ingredient found in turmeric, can help ease anxiety. It may reduce oxidative stress, which is often high in people with mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression.
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Chamomile Tea
You cannot think about diet and depression and anxiety and forget chamomile. Many people use chamomile tea as an antioxidant. The flavonoids it contains are believed to have anti-inflammatory, anti-anxiety, and relaxant properties and are used as an herbal remedy.
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Almonds
Almonds are a great source of nutrients and are loaded with fat-soluble antioxidants. The healthy fats and vitamin E in almonds are believed to boost brain function. Studies also reveal that almonds can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress linked to anxiety development. Hence, they form part of the good foods that reduce anxiety and depression, plus other mood-boosting properties.
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Yoghurt
Studies reveal that yoghurt is a good food for mental health. It helps lower inflammation and boosts the production of mood-boosting neurotransmitters such as serotonin. Besides, yoghurt has Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria, which are healthy bacteria.
Such bacteria and fermented foods have calming effects on the brain. They may also help ease anxiety symptoms and improve mood. Some studies have found that the consumption of healthy bacteria can boost happiness in some people.
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Green Tea
Theanine is an amino acid found in green tea. Studies have found it to have anti-anxiety and calming effects. Taking green tea can also increase the production of serotonin and dopamine. These chemicals activate feelings of calmness and relaxation while reducing tension in humans.
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Avocados
Avocados are a healthy food for mental health. They contain monounsaturated healthy fats that supply the body with sustained energy. Avocados also contain lots of magnesium and potassium, which improve blood flow throughout the body. Hence, they promote a healthier brain and ease mental health issues such as anxiety.