Health Foods for Anxiety

Stress and fear a normal part of everyday life. However, inappropriate feelings of dread, fear and stress, particularly when there is no apparent cause for these feelings, may be signs of anxiety disorder. This disorder may show up as a pervasive, general sense of worry, or as chronic, acute feelings of panic that can cause shortness of breath, increased heart rate, sweating, nausea and breathing difficulties, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Although diet alone cannot cure anxiety, certain foods may help alleviate the symptoms of anxiety disorder. Check with your physician before altering your diet to address anxiety symptoms.

Complex Carbohydrates

Complex carbohydrates are found in foods such as vegetables, brown rice, whole-wheat pastas and breads, rye and whole-grain cereals. The complex carbohydrates in these foods may help stimulate the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter chemical that may help promote feelings of calmness, according to MayoClinic.com. This may help alleviate pervasive worry, panic and stress associated with panic disorder. Avoid white breads, tortillas, bagels and pastas, which contain simple carbohydrates that may worsen anxiety symptoms.

Pyridoxine-Rich Foods

Pyridoxine, also known as vitamin B-6, helps maintain your energy levels, particularly during times of stress or anxiety, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." This vitamin may also help calm your central nervous system, which may prevent the onset of panic attacks associated with anxiety disorder. Pyridoxine aids in the production of dopamine, norepinephrine and serotonin, which are chemicals that may help regulate mood. Spinach, avocados, bananas, green peas, broccoli and walnuts are healthy foods that contain pyridoxine.

Tryptophan-Rich Foods

Tryptophan is a chemical that may have a relaxing effect on your mind and body, according to MayoClinic.com. This may help relieve the effects of generalized anxiety disorder and panic disorder. This amino acid is essential for the production of serotonin, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It may also help correct sleep disturbances associated with anxiety disorders. Tryptophan is found in foods such as soybeans, low-fat dairy products, bananas, oats, peanuts and poultry contain tryptophan.