Work-life can sometimes be stressful, especially when juggling deadlines, rushing from one meeting to another, and firing off an email every minute. When your day gets a little hectic, incorporating healthy food into your diet can help lessen your stress and boost your energy levels.
While you probably already know various types of food that affect your weight, you may not know different foods that can help boost your brain. But worry not, as this article will explore the best foods that can fuel your energy when experiencing a hectic day and help keep your stress level under control.
- Coffee Fix
According to reports from the National Coffee Association, more than half of Americans reach for a cup of coffee every day. Surprisingly, those coffee lovers swear they cannot function without a cup of coffee.
Studies show that drinking coffee reduces stress levels and keeps your brain alert. Also, it protects against neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s.
While consuming coffee can help boost your brain, it can, in most cases, interfere with your sleep. Therefore, you need to avoid taking coffee or other caffeinated drinks past 3 pm to prevent this issue.
If you are looking for the perfect present for your coffee lover friend, you may consider these roasty coffee gift ideas from RoastyCoffee.com.
- Fatty Fish
Stress can take a huge toll on your heart but munching a fatty can help boost your mood. Whether you take tuna, salmon, halibut, and sardines, these fatty fish contain healthy omega-3 fatty acids that help ease depression.
- Dark Chocolate
Usually, it is not advisable to eat a dessert when stressed, but dark chocolate may be an exemption. Research shows that consuming one and a half ounces of dark chocolate can help lower stress levels.
These treats contain antioxidants and magnesium that help suppress stress hormones in the body. However, it is not advisable to consume more than a 1-oz serving of dark chocolate in a day.
- Whole Grain Carbohydrates
Although carbohydrates have gotten a bad reputation, the right carbs can be beneficial to suppress stress. Carbohydrates increase the serotonin levels in the body, a chemical that helps in boosting mood.
However, you must always pick the correct carbs for optimal results. A good rule of thumb is to avoid consuming refined carbs such as cookies, chips, and crackers; they are associated with causing stress, depression, and inflammation.
On the other hand, complex carbs can do wonders for your stress levels as they are slow to digest and keep your blood pressure levels more even. Sources of complex carbs include whole grains (such as brown rice, whole grain bread, and oats) and sweet potatoes.
- Leafy Greens
Salads are one of the best choices you can make at lunchtime or dinner. Leafy green vegetables such as kale, spinach, and other raw vegetables and fruits are stress busters. Leafy greens are rich in magnesium, helping regulate blood pressure levels. In addition, they contain folate, which contributes to the production of dopamine, a feel-good chemical.
- Avocados
Avocados contain healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin B6, Vitamin C, and fiber, making them a perfect snack to relieve stress.
The fruit is also packed with potassium which helps to lower blood pressure. Eating avocados discourages you from unhealthy snacking when you are stressed.
- Blueberries
Blueberries contain high levels of antioxidative, polyphenols, and anti-inflammatory compounds that help in boosting your mood. The fruits will not only make you happier but will also increase your energy levels, making you more productive at work.
In addition, the polyphenols component in blueberries prevents the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s.
