Foods that Help Reduce Stress & Anxiety

Swiss Chard: This leafy-green vegetable is replete with stress-fighting nutrients. Just 1 cup of cooked Swiss chard contains 36% of the recommended intake for magnesium, which plays an important role in your body’s stress response. Swiss chard can be eaten raw or cooked and can be incorporated into salad, stir-fry or soup.

Sweet Potatoes: This seasonal favorite is packed with nutrients that are important for stress response, such as vitamin C and potassium. You can enjoy sweet potatoes baked or mashed in your favorite holiday dish.

Artichokes: As a good source of fiber and prebiotics, artichokes are another great food for relieving stress. A recent study found that people who ate 5 or more grams of prebiotics per day experienced improved anxiety and depression symptoms. Artichokes can be grilled, steamed or roasted and are the perfect addition to any meal.

Eggs: Who knew that such a popular and versatile food also provides so much nutritional value? Whole eggs are packed with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants needed for a healthy stress response. With so many ways to prepare them, be sure to incorporate this protein-rich ingredient into your diet.

Garlic: Garlic is packed with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants needed for a healthy stress response. For a cozy winter meal, add garlic to your favorite soup or pasta recipe.

Broccoli: Some of the vegetables that we eat every day are full of health benefits and broccoli is no exception. Not only can it help improve your mental health but it can also lower your risk of certain cancers and heart disease.

Blueberries: Along with their stress-reducing properties, these berries are also high in flavonoid antioxidants that have powerful anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. You can easily add more blueberries to your diet by adding them to oatmeal, yogurt or smoothies.

Tea: What better way to reduce stress during the winter months than by curling up with a hot cup of tea? Especially chamomile tea, which is a medicinal herb that has been used since ancient times as a natural stress reducer. Add honey, lemon or sugar to complete this hot beverage.

Fatty Fish: Salmon, herring and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fats and vitamin D nutrients that can work wonders for your mood. Not only are Omega-3s essential for brain health and mood but may also help your body handle stress. Add on a side of broccoli and brown rice for a tasty, nutrient-packed meal.

Shellfish: Shellfish including oysters, clams and mussels are high in amino acids that have been known to possess mood-boosting qualities. This winter, steam up your favorite shellfish for a delicious, mood-boosting meal.