More than ever, Americans are stressed about social distancing regulations, the uncertain job market, and racial injustice. That is why it is essential to make sure that the food you eat does not exacerbate your stress. By taking control of eating the right foods, you are taking control of your anxiety.
How Do Oranges Help with Anxiety?
Oranges have 70 milligrams of Vitamin C, which is 100% of your daily recommended intake. While Vitamin C is an excellent immune booster, it can also alleviate stress and put you in a calmer state of mind. You can start your day with an orange for breakfast or add it to your diet as a snack with almonds or yogurt.
You can add oranges to your salad to make it sweeter, garnish your fish or chicken, or chop one into your salsa. You can even make yourself a smoothie with oranges and other Vitamin C-rich fruits like strawberries, mango, lemon, pineapple, kiwi, papaya, or grapefruit.
How Does Tea Help with Anxiety?
Chamomile tea tends to be a useful sedative, easing muscle tension and irritability. Thyme tea is also a good stress reliever and can be found in most grocery stores. Thyme contains carvacrol, which has a natural calming and supportive effect on the brain. You can drink these teas at any time during the day, and they can help you unwind after a long day.
How Does Salmon Help with Anxiety?
While salmon is useful for combatting depression, it can also be good for anxiety. Omega-3s reduce inflammation and stress. Salmon is also rich in Vitamin D, an essential natural deterrent to anxiety and depression. Salmon can be served grilled, baked, raw, and added to dishes like salad, pasta, and casserole. Sardines are also another fish loaded with omega-3s.
How Does Dark Chocolate Help with Anxiety?
Many people like to indulge in chocolate when they feel stressed out. Dark chocolate is also rich in antioxidants, which can lower stress hormones in your body. It is important to consume dark chocolate in small quantities, of course, as the saturated fat and sugars are not healthy. By eating any of these healthy foods in quarantine, you can significantly reduce your stress levels.
Being alone in your house during quarantine can make you stress eat. At Alta Loma, nutrition classes are provided to teach you about choosing the right foods to combat your anxiety as well as individualized therapy, recreational activities, medication management, life skills, and more. For more information, please call us at (866) 457-3843.
