When you’re feeling stressed, it can be hard to break out of the frame of mind. Sometimes, you can go for a run and experience momentary happiness and stress relief. Other times, that sense of calm and peace is a little harder to come by. Did you know that eating well can impact your mood, emotions, and motivation?
What you eat can determine whether your stress levels are low or high and whether you need more or less of different nutrients. For example, those who are experiencing increased levels of stress may need more magnesium, vitamin C and B, and selenium, than someone who is not at all stressed. Essentially, you can fight stress with food, and here’s how.
Herbal Tea
There’s a reason people offer distressed friends and family a hot drink. It can promote a sense of calm, decrease stress, and provide warmth. While many warm drinks can offer these feelings, herbal tea can do it that little bit better.
In times of stress, sit down with a cup of chamomile or lavender tea. These two herbal varieties promote a soothing effect far better than other types. You can then be in a better frame of mind to tackle your problems head-on.
Chocolate
Who would have thought that eating well to reduce stress meant you get to have chocolate? While you shouldn’t go overboard, the antioxidants in dark chocolate can be quite beneficial.