If you struggle with anxiety, exercising regularly, consistently getting eight hours of sleep a night, and cutting out caffeine can help. But if you’ve tried all of those and still don’t feel relief, you may want to make some dietary adjustments.
According to the Daily Mail, research shows that the gut and anxiety are closely linked. Anxiety is also linked to inflammation in the body, but certain foods can help counteract this. Adding these seven so-called superfoods to your diet may help to ease your anxiety:
Blueberries
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This superfood is known to have some amazing powers. Blueberries can reverse cognitive decline, stave off dementia and lower your risk of heart disease. They’re also loaded with vitamin C, which can help lower levels of cortisol – the stress hormone – and that may help ease anxiety.
Dark Chocolate
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Eating this tasty treat comes with lots of benefits, including lowering blood pressure, enhancing alertness, and even improving your sex life. And some research finds that dark chocolate could reduce anxiety because it’s linked to comfort.
Eggs
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They truly are incredible! In addition to being a good source of protein, eggs are high in vitamin D, which the body uses to produce and release serotonin, which can help boost your mood.
Hummus
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The popular dip made from chickpeas is a good source of tryptophan that the body uses to make melatonin and serotonin. Melatonin can help with sleep, which in turn can lower anxiety. More serotonin can help lift your mood, as well as ease anxiety.
Peppermint Tea
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Peppermint tea is made from mint plants so it has no caffeine. It’s also a rich source of polyphenols, which may help reduce inflammation and ease anxiety.
Salmon
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Studies suggest the omega-3 fatty acids in salmon can reduce inflammation in the body and lower anxiety as well. Plus, omega-3s also lower the risk of heart disease or stroke, and help with symptoms of eczema and arthritis as well. I try to eat it at least once a week.
Yogurt
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Yogurt is packed with good bacteria that can help build and maintain a healthy gut microbiome. A recent study finds that eating probiotic yogurt once a day for six weeks is linked to lower levels of anxiety.
