A certain amount of stress in life is normal, but when the feeling turns toward anger, frustration or anxiety, you need to take action to change the cause. Too much stress and anxiety create other health problems, such as heart disease, alcohol and drug abuse and other sicknesses, claims the Medline Plus website. Fight anxiety by eating healthy foods with nutrients that can help to overcome the feelings of extreme stress. Always consult your doctor when a change in your health occurs. There may be a serious underlying cause of your anxiety.
Tryptophan
In an article on the Mayo Clinic website, Dr. Daniel K. Hall-Flavin recommends eating a diet rich in tryptophan. This amino acid promotes the production of mood-improving chemicals to help you relax. Foods that contain tryptophan include bananas, poultry, milk, cheese, yogurt, peanut butter and oats.
Carbohydrates
Dr. Hall-Flavin recommends increasing your carbohydrates near bedtime. Foods high in carbs may assist in increasing serotonin, a chemical that helps calm you down. Whole grains and other complex carbohydrates are healthier than sugar and other simple carbs.
Magnesium
Foods with magnesium assist in the relaxation of your muscles, claims the Better Health Channel website. Not getting enough magnesium can create tense muscles, depression, insomnia and anxiety. Foods rich in magnesium include green leafy vegetables, green vegetables, whole grains and nuts. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, another benefit of magnesium is that it helps to regulate calcium, zinc, potassium, vitamin D and other nutrients your body needs.
Omega-3 Fats
The Anxiety Secrets website claims that foods high in omega-3 fatty acids help lower your cholesterol levels, which is good for your cardiovascular health. This in turn helps your body to fight stress and anxiety. Foods high in omega-3 fats include salmon, tuna, mackerel, olive oil and walnuts.
B Vitamins
When your body experiences high stress situations that create anxiety, you need more B vitamins to assist your brain cells and nerves. These vitamins are also essential to help to convert food into the energy you need to deal with stress, according to Psychology Today. Vitamin B rich foods include fish, chicken, bananas, potatoes and green leafy vegetables.
Fluids
When your body becomes dehydrated, you're placing an unnecessary stress on it. According to the Anxiety Secrets website, when you are dehydrated, you're more likely to feel weak, dizzy, confused and fatigued. Increase your consumption of fluids, particularly water, to stay hydrated and to help flush toxins from your system.
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