Less Stress Now: Eat Stress-Busting Foods
Stress causes your body to start producing excess stress hormones: cortisol and adrenaline. Luckily, nature has provided us with some foods that naturally seem to help reduce cortisol, and reduce symptoms of stress and anxiety. Recent studies suggest:
- Shellfish: Omega-3 fatty acids in shellfish may reduce cortisol according to a recent study in Spain which showed that people who ate 3-4 ounces daily lowered their risk of anxiety, stress, and depression by 30 percent.
- Milk: Four or more servings of calcium daily may help lower the risk of symptoms like anxiety and irritability, according to a study of women in the Archives of Internal Medicine. Additionally, lactium, a milk-based protein, may help ease anxiety and promote the relaxation necessary for proper sleep patterns.
- Vitamin C-rich foods: Vitamin C lowers stress by limiting cortisol production. Researchers in Germany found that when people were subjected to the anxiety of public speaking, those who took 3000mg of C felt calmer and their blood pressure returned to normal faster. Foods with Vitamin C also have the “bonus” of stimulating release of oxytocin, a “feel-good hormone.”
Try…Berries, Guava, Kiwi, Oranges, Lemons, Leafy Greens, Bell Peppers, Tomatoes