The fast pace of life, various daily problems and juggling between work and family do not leave us much time for ourselves and our needs.
In addition, irregular sleeping and eating schedules and all the things that burden us lead to an increase in stress levels.
It's important to lead an active life and exercise regularly to eliminate stress, and you can get rid of it or at least keep it under control by eating these foods, which will help you relax.
You can also relax the body with food
Water
The most important of all is sufficient fluid intake, because even mild dehydration of the body can negatively affect memory and mood. Water is the best weapon in the fight against depression, because it improves mood, motor functions and mind power.
Chocolate
There is nothing as delicious, yet soothing, as chocolate. The mere thought of chocolate, a favorite book and a cozy corner in the house is enough to reduce stress levels. A recent study proved that daily consumption of dark chocolate for a period of two weeks reduces stress hormones. Chocolate stimulates the release of serotonin, which is a natural antidepressant.
Banana
Bananas are great for fighting stress, because they contain potassium, which helps the body retain hydration, but also magnesium, vitamin B6 and numerous other nutrients that will calm the nervous system. Experts say that every fourth depressed person suffers from a lack of vitamin B complex, and by increasing the intake of this vitamin, you will significantly improve your mood.
Potatoes
Complex carbohydrates, such as sweet potatoes, contain high levels of vitamins A, C and B, and effectively eliminate stress and even lower blood pressure. Likewise, sweet potatoes contain a number of nutrients that nourish the endocrine system.
Oatmeal
Oatmeal contains carbohydrates that raise the level of serotonin, the hormone of happiness, in the body. This improves the mood and alleviates the harmful effects of stress. A bad mood can also be caused by a lack of zinc, a mineral that is abundant in pumpkin seeds, wheat germ, and high-protein foods such as meat and dairy products.
Cheese
Cheese is one of the foods that can be combined with any dish to make it richer and tastier. Although it is known for its fat content, it is also very good for stress relief.
Blueberries
Blueberries are the perfect combination of vitamin C and antioxidants that help balance stress. Antioxidants in blueberries also protect cells from cancer and heart disease. You can eat them in any form, as compote, juice or fresh.
Almond
Almonds are rich in vitamins B2 and E, zinc and magnesium. They contain serotonin, which helps balance mood and stress. Zinc is an excellent ally in the fight against the negative effects of stress, and vitamin E is an antioxidant that improves immunity. Almonds lower blood pressure and thus keep stress under control.
Fish
The omega-3 fatty acids in fish help keep adrenaline and stress levels under control. Salmon and tuna can prevent the rise of stress hormones and also protect against heart disease, mood swings and depression. Sushi is also good for stress relief.
Avokado
Avocados are rich in vitamin B, which has a calming effect, and contains potassium, which lowers blood pressure. It is an excellent dietary supplement in stressful situations and because it is rich in glutathione, an antioxidant responsible for preventing the absorption of fats that cause oxidative stress.
The three-minute technique
This technique is widely applicable in removing stress, right at the moment when it is most intense. It is suitable for the most stressful situations, such as hours-long traffic jams, tantrums, short deadlines for completing some work...
This exercise can be done in intervals of three to five minutes and is a very effective way to stop outbursts of anger, tension and nervousness.
The three-minute technique consists of five steps:
1. Take an upright sitting position in which you feel comfortable. Then focus on your current state.
2. Block negative thoughts. Closing your eyes can help you with this.
3. Pay attention to your breathing: inhale slowly through your nose, allow yourself to do so for a few seconds.
4. Exhale slowly through your mouth, but so that the exhalation lasts twice as long as the inhalation. Try to exhale all the air from your lungs.
5. Inhale slowly again and continue like this in intervals of three to five minutes, reports Nezavisne.
Bonus video:
