Foods that can reduce stress

Written by Dr Laila Kaikavoosi

Some foods contain nutrients which can reduce stress levels. These are:

Nuts and seeds: are high in magnesium which has stress reducing properties. This supplement also promotes a good night’s sleep which reduces stress.

Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons and grapefruits are packed with vitamin C which has been shown in some studies to reduce anxiety levels.

High fibre food like kale, beans, broccoli and whole grains. These will keep your sugar levels balanced so you have less sugar crashes and less fatigue, irritability and anxiety.

Omega-3 rich foods like fish, avocados, chia seeds, flax seeds and olive oil

Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and may reduce levels of stress hormone and it also feels like an indulgence and this feeling alone can reduce stress levels.

Carbohydrates can increase levels of serotonin, a hormone which can reduce stress levels. In a short time, you can feel better focused and happier but make sure you choose unrefined carbs like sweet potatoes, brown rice and pasta rye and buckwheat.