Health

The best foods to combat stress

By Gretel Morales - 2021-10-14T16:44:32Z
At kiwilimón, we know that life can get very hectic, leading to experiencing stress, which experts describe as a feeling of physical or emotional tension. While meditating, exercising, or taking a vacation are excellent options, you can also combat stress through your diet. Here are the foods you should include in your diet to feel more relaxed.The best foods to reduce stressIf we start from the idea that cortisol is the hormone responsible for stress, the best thing we can do is consume foods that help lower these levels.According to experts, there are many foods we can consume to easily and simply combat stress. One of the main recommendations is to adopt the Mediterranean diet, which is rich in foods that will help you lower stress levels:VegetablesFruitsWhole grainsFishChickenHealthy fatsIt is worth mentioning that to lower cortisol levels, it is necessary to consume foods with anti-inflammatory properties, as well as to set aside junk food. Here are the foods that will help you feel better immediately.You can also read: 10 natural remedies to reduce anxiety and stressFoods rich in vitamin BEggsBeefChickenFoods rich in omega-3Thanks to their ability to reduce inflammation, these foods are your best choice: AvocadoChiaFlaxseedOlive oilOystersSalmonTunaWalnutsFoods rich in magnesiumExperts indicate that magnesium is beneficial for combating inflammation, relaxing the body, and metabolizing cortisol. You can find this mineral in the following foods:AvocadoPumpkin seedsBroccoliSpinachBananaDark chocolateProteinsFoods with a good amount of protein are an ideal option to combat stress, try the following:LentilsPeanutsAlmondsEggChicken breastQuinoaTurkey breastSalmonTunaShrimpStomach-friendly foodsIn addition to the previously mentioned foods, those rich in probiotics and fermented ingredients are also good options if you suffer from stress:KefirKimchiGreek yogurtKombuchaYou can also read: 6 foods that could help you reduce anxietyOther foods to reduce stressIn addition to including typical foods from the Mediterranean diet, there are more options for you.Chamomile teaChamomile has countless medicinal uses, and as if that weren't enough, it will also help you relax. According to some scientific research, chamomile tea and extract have proven to be effective in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as promoting sleep.MatchaEnjoy a delicious matcha latte in the mornings, as this drink will help you reduce stress. Since this substance contains L-theanine, this tea is very helpful in combating stress. However, look for options with low caffeine levels.ArtichokeBe encouraged to include artichoke in your diet, as it is a plant rich in prebiotics and fiber, which has great benefits for your gut health. On the other hand, it is worth mentioning that recent studies indicate that prebiotics found in artichoke help reduce stress levels. Remember that this plant is also rich in vitamins C and K, as well as magnesium and potassium, vitamins and minerals that are essential to counteract stress.ParsleyIn addition to being a basic aromatic herb in the kitchen, parsley will also help you reduce stress, as it is rich in antioxidants, which will protect you against oxidative stress. It is worth mentioning that this type of stress is related to various diseases, including anxiety and depression.You can also read: Take advantage of these 6 kitchen herbs to combat stressFoods to avoidIf you are stressed, it is highly recommended that you do not consume the following foods, as they increase your cortisol levels:Alcoholic beveragesSugarCaffeineDesserts, pastries, cookies, etc.SodaRemember that while a diet rich in healthy and balanced foods is a great option to combat stress, it is also important to get enough sleep, exercise, and maintain overall health. If stress increases, it is essential to consult a specialist.