April 17, 2019
Anxiety is a natural and common aspect of day-to-day life. Although almost everyone faces it at some point throughout their lives, some experience it more than others.
Below I specify 4 foods that, when consumed in conjunction with an overall healthful diet and wellness plan, can help to ward off the nervous jitters and racing thoughts associated with a bout of anxiety.
Let’s face it, if we could, we would rid ourselves of this emotion entirely.
4 Foods That Help Fight Anxiety
Red Cabbage
This type of cabbage contains high levels of the amino acid L-glutamine which is especially important for gut health during times of stress. L-glutamine can actually help repair a leaky gut wall, decrease IBS symptoms, and is also a precursor to the important anti-anxiety neurotransmitter glutamate. As most of us know, a healthy gut is important for a healthy brain and this food definitely encourages gut-brain health.
Turkey
This food can do much more for us than signify the start of Thanksgiving dinner. In fact, this popular holiday roast contains a powerful amino acid called L-tryptophan, a precursor to the neurotransmitter serotonin. By consuming L-tryptophan containing foods we increase our production of serotonin which produces a calming effect that can be beneficial to anxiety disorders, insomnia, and depression.
Fresh Fish
Small, freshwater fish are a great addition to any diet. They contain high amounts of the essential fatty acid Omega-3. This type of fat is highly concentrated in the brain and is important to both cognitive and behavioural function. Along with reducing anxiety, fresh fish that is high in omega-3 can even help improve fatigue, poor memory, mood swings, and depression.
Green Tea
Switching from coffee to daily green tea can improve anxiety levels in a few surprising ways. Since green tea is lower in caffeine than coffee, it will produce fewer symptoms in people who are prone to nervousness. Green tea also contains the amino acid L-Theanine which is a precursor to the relaxation-inducing neurotransmitter GABA. Although L-Theanine does increase GABA and overall relaxation, it does so without causing drowsiness. This fact, in my opinion, makes green tea the perfect beverage to consume before a busy day.
