10 foods good for stress eating
Illustrative photo (Freepik)
Many individuals instinctively go for chocolate, cookies, or other snacks during times of stress. While stress eating unrelated to physical hunger can help reduce anxiety and improve mood, it's important to choose foods that won't harm the body, according to the Ukraine's Ministry of Health.
Parsley
Parsley, a seemingly ordinary plant, contains phytoncides, flavonoids, and carotenoids, which are antioxidants that protect cells from oxidative stress associated with various illnesses and disorders, including anxiety and depression.
According to research findings, a diet rich in antioxidants can reduce anxiety and stress levels and decrease inflammation in the body during chronic stress.
Garlic
Garlic contains sulfur compounds that increase the levels of the antioxidant glutathione, which protects the body from stress and helps alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Eggs
Eggs contain a wealth of nutrients necessary for combating stress, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids. Additionally, eggs contain vitamin B4, which not only protects against stress but also positively affects brain health.
Broccoli
Consuming cruciferous vegetables like broccoli reduces the risk of heart disease and depressive disorders. Broccoli's positive impact is attributed to its folate, vitamin C, and magnesium content, as well as sulforaphane, a sulfur compound that has a calming effect.
Broccoli reduces the risk of depression (photo: Freepik)
Tahini
Tahini, a sesame paste, is an excellent source of L-tryptophan, an amino acid that helps synthesize serotonin, improving mood.
Sunflower seeds
Sunflower seeds are an excellent source of vitamin E, B vitamins, selenium, zinc, manganese, and magnesium, all of which have a positive effect on psychological well-being. Additionally, sunflower seeds help curb snack cravings.
Chamomile
Chamomile has long been used as a natural sedative. Chamomile tea extract helps reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety and promotes restful sleep.
Blueberries
Blueberries have anti-inflammatory properties due to their flavonoid antioxidants, which reduce inflammation caused by stress and protect nerve cells from damage. Consuming foods high in flavonoids not only improves mood but also protects the mind from depression.
Offal
Offal, such as kidneys, heart, and liver, is a source of B vitamins, including folic acid, riboflavin, and vitamins B6 and B12, necessary for the synthesis of serotonin and dopamine. These properties help control stress levels.
Fatty fish
Sardines, mackerel, trout, salmon, and herring are sources of omega-3 fatty acids and alpha-linolenic acid, essential for brain health, improving mental state, and positively influencing cognitive processes.
However, it's advisable to consume fatty fish up to three times a week because an imbalance in omega-3-6-9 can lead to increased anxiety and mood disorders.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
