In the pursuit of mental well-being, dietary choices play a crucial role. It’s important to highlight the impact of food on stress and anxiety, and how to avoid stress-inducing foods and embrace stress-fighting options like berries, nuts, seeds, and nutrient-rich sources. A balanced diet, specific nutrients to support mood regulation and overall mental health is the need of the hour.
Geetika Bajaj, nutritionist and lifestyle management consultant, offers valuable insights:
- Avoid Stress Aggravators: Limit foods high in sugar and trans fats for stress and anxiety reduction.
- Berries for Antioxidants: Berries, rich in antioxidants, can help prevent cell damage and alleviate stress.
- Combat Zinc Deficiency: Cashews provide 14-20% of recommended zinc, linked to anxiety reduction.
- Magnesium Sources: Chia seeds, pumpkin seeds, and eggs contain magnesium, linked to mood improvement.
- Tryptophan in Eggs: Eggs, with tryptophan, contribute to serotonin production, regulating mood.
- Avocado’s Stress-Fighting Qualities: Avocados, with healthy fats, fiber, vitamins C and B6, reduce stress and lower blood pressure.
- Leafy Greens for Folate: Folate-rich leafy greens combat anxiety by supporting neurotransmitter production.
- Salmon for Vitamin D: Salmon and sardines, rich in vitamin D, may alleviate mood disorders like anxiety.
- Dairy’s Sleep-Inducing Nutrients: Milk’s nutrients, including tryptophan, melatonin, and B-vitamins, ease stress and promote sleep.
