5 Foods That Relieve Stress

Gorging on food, when you're stressed or upset, may seem like the natural thing for most, but instead of grabbing an unhealthy snack, why not opt for foods that can relieve stress? Here are some popular ones...

Sweet potatoes

Craving for carbs? Steer clear of French fries and junk sugar-rich foods. Have some sweet potatoes instead, which are known to release a slow, steady source of energy. They won't leave behind that blood-sugar crash, which other carb-high foods can.

Blueberries

Blueberries have concentrated antioxidants and will pep you up in no time. They are also high in vitamin C, which, research shows, provides added reserves to help deal with stress. High on fibre, they also regulate blood sugar.

Turkey

Turkey contains amino acid tryptophan, which is known to release a feel-good chemical, serotonin, in the brain. Serotonin induces a sense of calm, making you feel relaxed.

Asparagus

Asparagus is high in folic acid, which is known to calm you down. When your body is stressed, it releases hormones, which affect your mood. Eating certain vitamins and minerals keeps your mood steady, as they produce the feel-good chemical serotonin.

Beef

Believe it or not, but beef has stress-busting properties because of its B vitamins and levels of zinc. It also contains unhealthy, saturated fats that raises chances of coronary heart disease and other illnesses, it is beneficial if you opt for leaner cuts. A healthy way to cook beef is to have it slightly seared on the outside, sliced very thin and served with a salad.

Posted in: HEALTH & FITNESS