5 Healthy Foods That Can Lower Stress Levels

We all have stress in our lives.  Stress has been around since the dawn of mankind.  Primitive stress was short lived.  You either survived or you didn't.  We now have stressors that can last for years.  The major ones have to do with relationships, family, friends, money, jobs, health and faith.  

Our ability to cope with stress, can have a significantly positive impact on our health and well being.  Our inability to deal with stress, can lead to a variety of health issues and even premature death.  

Fortunately, there are many natural ways in which you can reduce a significant portion of that stress.  This can occur all from the comfort of your own kitchen and dining room. Here are six excellent, healthy foods that can help you lower your stress levels naturally:

1. Almonds and other nuts are good for you because of so many different reasons.  One reason is their ability to reduce your stress level.  Nuts are loaded with vitamin E, which boosts immunity. A healthier you means a less stressed you, too.  Nuts also have B vitamins, zinc, magnesium and omega oils, which are all nutrients that are depleted when anxiety is high. Nuts have also been shown to curb appetite, naturally balance blood sugar levels, reduce sugar cravings and support balanced metabolism.

2. There's No Fish Like Oily Fish  - Fish like salmon are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids.  Omega-3’s have been shown to boost mood and brain function, which can aid significantly in dealing with anxiety and depression.  A 2011 study from Ohio State showed a 20% reduction in anxiety among medical school students who took omega-3 supplements. Oily fish also contains a host of vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, zinc and magnesium that help counteract the damaging effects of stress on the body.

3. Chocolate - A little chocolate goes a long way towards reducing our stress levels. Too much indulgence is likely to keep you from your weight-loss goals, but a small portion of chocolate as a pick-me-up isn't such a bad idea. Chocolate helps to boost serotonin levels, which plays a key role in dealing with stress. In a study conducted by Duke Medical Center, researchers found that lower levels of serotonin actually cause a more extreme reaction when the body encounters stress.  Research has shown that 40grams of dark chocolate a day can help us cope with stress by releasing 'happy chemicals' known as beta endorphins in the brain.

4. Spinach - Spinach and other dark leafy greens, such as Swiss chard and kale, are loaded with magnesium, which has been credited as a major stress fighter, helping to relax muscle fibers and put you at ease.  Green leafy foods contain folic acid, which helps make dopamine, a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure.

5. Oranges along with Brussels sprouts, broccoli, red and green peppers and strawberries contain lots of vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and fights brain-cell damage resulting from constant exposure to cortisol.  Stress makes our body release even more free radicals than when we are in a good mood. Vitamin C helps to keep the free radicals in check and repairs the body.  

Exercising, sleeping well, eating probiotic rich foods, getting out in the sunshine also have a very positive impact on reducing stress.  You should never stop taking any medication that may have been prescribed for any stress related condition or depression, without first consulting your prescribing physician.

For More Information:

http://www.hungryforchange.tv/article/5-healthy-foods-to-lower-stress-levels-fast