10 Foods to Calm You down ...

1. Avocados

One of the tastiest foods to calm you down is the avocado! Avocados contain a lot of B vitamins, which are essential for healthy brain cells and nerves. They’re also full of beta carotene, lutein, folate, vitamin E and glutathione, which can block the absorption of fats that can cause oxidative stress. Use this versatile fruit in salads, sammies and even smoothies!

2. Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is not only a healthy treat, it’s also a calming food! Greek yogurt contains probiotics for a healthy gut, calcium for strong teeth and bones, and potassium, which has been known to help elevate low moods! Swap your midday sugary snack for a cup of Greek yogurt with fruit or try using it as a substitute for sour cream and eat your way to calm!

3. Salmon

Omega-3 fatty acids are awesome. They’re not only good for our skin and overall health but they contribute to peak brain function and a healthy mood! One fab calming food in particular is salmon. Salmon contains lots of omega-3s and you only need a few ounces of this filling fish to do the trick! If you’re not a fan of salmon, tuna’s a great pick, too!

4. Eggs

The next time you’re faced with the decision of what to eat for your next meal, have an egg or two! Eggs are an excellent source of protein and D and B vitamins, all of which can contribute to a healthy mood! Try hard boiled eggs and take them to work as a snack, fry an egg and add it to a sandwich, a salad or your favorite dish!

5. Asparagus

A healthy and delicious food that fights stress is asparagus. Asparagus contains folic acid that is great to combat stress and anxiety. On top of that, these slender stalks also contain tryptophan, which is one of the essential amino acids that make serotonin in your brain. Serotonin is needed for healthy emotions, sleep, appetite and more. Why not have asparagus as a side dish to fish for a super healthy and calming meal!

6. Berries

Berries are known for being a good skin food but they’re also a calming food that fights stress. Blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and blackberries are also antioxidant and vitamin C powerhouses that help keep your mind sharp and focused and fighting off the effects of stress. Eat berries as a snack, add them to your salad or add them to your smoothie!

7. Nuts

Nuts are a great way to satisfy salty or crunchy cravings but they also help mellow you out! Nuts like cashews and almonds have vitamins B and E and contain zinc. All of these nutrients are essential to help fight off damage from ongoing stress and replenish and repair brain cells for healthy functioning. Add sliced almonds to yogurt or salads or chop up cashews and add to a Thai-inspired dish!

8. Spinach

Spinach might not be the most desirable food on this list of foods to calm you down but it’s definitely one of the most important! Spinach is chock full of vitamins and minerals that make it a must-have to replenish the adrenal glands with vital nutrients during times of stress. Have a spinach salad, add it as a side dish or make a green juice!

9. Tea

Tea isn’t a food product but there are lots of benefits from drinking certain types of tea that are just as good as the foods on this list! Sipping on teas like chamomile, lavender, lemon balm and passion flower are some of the many beneficial teas that can help calm nerves and help you relax. Instead of reaching for coffee the next time you have a break, enjoy a cup of tea!

10. Nutritional Yeast

You might think eating a type of yeast is odd but vegans know that nutritional yeast is healthy and delicious! Nutritional yeast contains B vitamins and loads of minerals that are helpful in weight loss, boosting your metabolism and relieving stress! Use nutritional yeast as a faux cheese topping on snacks, salads or other dishes!

We deal with a lot in our everyday lives, so sometimes stress is inevitable. Try these calming foods to help replenish your minds and bodies with the nutrients it needs to function optimally! Keep in mind that a single serving of one of these foods might not be very helpful, so make them a part of your diet! If you fill your body with wholesome foods on a regular basis, you’re bound to feel better! Do you eat any of these calming foods?