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 stress

If 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:

• Vegetables
• Fruits
• Whole grains
• Fish
• Chicken
• Healthy fats

It 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 stress

Foods rich in vitamin B

• Eggs
• Beef
• Chicken

Foods rich in omega-3

Thanks to their ability to reduce inflammation, these foods are your best choice:

• Avocado
• Chia
• Flaxseed
• Olive oil
• Oysters
• Salmon
• Tuna
• Walnuts

Foods rich in magnesium

Experts indicate that magnesium is beneficial for combating inflammation, relaxing the body, and metabolizing cortisol. You can find this mineral in the following foods:

• Avocado
• Pumpkin seeds
• Broccoli
• Spinach
• Banana
• Dark chocolate

Proteins

Foods with a good amount of protein are an ideal option to combat stress, try the following:

• Lentils
• Peanuts
• Almonds
• Egg
• Chicken breast
• Quinoa
• Turkey breast
• Salmon
• Tuna
• Shrimp

Stomach-friendly foods

In addition to the previously mentioned foods, those rich in probiotics and fermented ingredients are also good options if you suffer from stress:

• Kefir
• Kimchi
• Greek yogurt
• Kombucha

You can also read: 6 foods that could help you reduce anxiety

Other foods to reduce stress

In addition to including typical foods from the Mediterranean diet, there are more options for you.

Chamomile tea

Chamomile 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.

Matcha

Enjoy 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.

Artichoke

Be 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.

Parsley

In 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 stress

Foods to avoid

If you are stressed, it is highly recommended that you do not consume the following foods, as they increase your cortisol levels:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Sugar
• Caffeine
• Desserts, pastries, cookies, etc.
• Soda

Remember 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.