Emotional eating or stress eating is a condition where an individual uses food to cope with their emotions like stress and anxiety. Most people find comfort in high-fat and sugary foods in such situations. However, this can have negative effects on the body and one might experience different types of physical and mental problems. If you are a person who is suffering from anxiety, and looking for an option to deal with it naturally, this is the right content for you. Here you will find information on different foods that can help you deal with anxiety in a natural way. All you have to do is choose the right foods that can calm your nerves and ease your thoughts. 

What is Anxiety?

In order to deal with anxiety, it is first important to understand what it is. Anxiety is a normal response of the body to a stressful situation. This can be anything from a job interview to the first day at school. This has become a prevalent scenario in today’s world. People from all age groups are experiencing anxiety and looking for different options to cope with it. Although there are different medications and treatments suggested for these problems, they may have different side effects. 

When we are stressed and face anxiety, it may lead to some serious health problems. Some studies have shown that anxiety and stress have negative effects on the physiology of our body. Anxiety is also linked with many other medical issues. Therefore, it is always advisable to look for a more natural option to deal with anxiety. 

Here you will find information on different food types that can help you to alleviate anxiety in a more natural way.  

• Consume Complex Carbs: Including complex carbs from whole grains ensures prolonged energy release into the bloodstream, which will protect you from feeling down. On the other hand, carbs are also known to increase serotonin levels in the brain, which is commonly known as the happy hormone. Therefore, each major meal should be well-spaced and contain different types of complex carbs like whole wheat, oats, quinoa, barley, and other grains. These grains have the power to keep you energized and happy. 

• Including Citrus Fruits: Citrus fruits contain good amounts of vitamin C, which can help you to control stress levels. This vitamin type is known to reduce physical as well as mental stress by preventing increased cortisol levels. Cortisol is considered a “fight or flight” hormone, which is released when an individual is stressed. Prolonged increase of this type of hormone may lead to numerous health conditions. 

• Foods Rich in Magnesium: If you are a person suffering from anxiety, including foods rich in magnesium can help you. Magnesium is an amazing mineral that reduces brain functions that trigger anxiety. Including green leafy vegetables in your diet is the easiest way to provide magnesium to your body. You can include anything from spinach to kale that will help you to stay calm. On the other hand, beans, bananas, and avocados are also considered happy foods. 

• Foods Rich in Zinc: Zinc is another mineral that will help you to deal with anxiety and stress naturally. It is mainly found in foods like cashews, eggs, and poultry. This mineral will also help you to maintain a healthy nervous system. It promotes the health of the vagus nerve, a nerve that connects the brain to the whole body. When your nerves are calm and healthy, you will be able to avoid many issues like stress, anxiety, depression, etc. 

• Omega 3 Fats: Foods rich in omega 3 fats will help you to control anxiety by improving brain functions. On the other hand, it can also help you to reduce the damage of oxidative stress in the body. Some of the top foods you can eat to provide the necessary omega-3 fats to your body include fatty fish, flaxseeds, walnuts, etc. As they have rich sources of healthy fats, you should always consume them in moderation.

• Moderate Consumption of Tea: Tea is a very traditional drink enjoyed by people as it helps them to calm down and get in a better mood. Studies have shown that tea leaves, especially green tea leaves can soothe the nerves as they contain a rich source of antioxidants. Many experts use chamomile tea for calmness and better sleep quality. There are different types of teas that can alleviate stress and promote a sense of calmness. 

• Coffee and Chocolate: Coffee and chocolates are both well-known stress busters. They can also improve your energy and get you into a better mood. For instance, dark chocolates boost the blood flow to the heart and brain, which in return reduces anxiety. However, it is very important for you to consume them in moderation as much caffeine can also cause anxiety. 

• Include More Turmeric: Most Indian dishes contain haldi or turmeric. It contains a bioactive compound called curcumin, which has been known for treating anxiety and depression for centuries. On the other hand, it can also boost the production of happy hormones called dopamine and serotonin. Some studies have also shown that turmeric can be as effective as antidepressant medications. 

Conclusion

All these food types and food groups can benefit your health in many ways. For instance, whole grains, fruits, and leafy green vegetables can nourish your body. On the other hand, healthy fats, spices, and nuts will protect your health. Herbs will help you to fight different types of infections and boost your overall immunity. So, it is very important for you to eat healthy, stay hydrated, and exercise regularly to keep stress and anxiety at bay.