Do you ever feel like you’re hungry as a horse when you’re drained mentally and physically? That’s called stress eating — something that a lot of people tend to do in order to feel better. However, reaching for the wrong comfort foods can actually make the situation worse. Stuffing your face with sodium, sugar and unhealthy fats will only heighten your stress levels further, and then you will end up craving more and more of those!
The next time you’re stressed and you feel like gobbling down that gigantic bag of chips, box of donuts or massive slice of chocolate cake, hit the brakes. Instead of those snacks, try to go for the following to combat stress:
Avocados
There are lots of glutathione, a really powerful antioxidant, present in avocados. Consuming these tropical fruits in moderation can help reduce the damaging effects of stress on your body.
Berries
Speaking of stress-fighting antioxidants, you can get plenty of those free radical-fighting molecules from berries, so feel free to snack on a handful of strawberries, blueberries, blackberries or raspberries.
Cashews
Because they contain healthy fats and a little salty, cashews can be very satisfying when you’re stressed. Cashews also have zinc, a mineral that is known to ward off depression and anxiety.
Oysters
Aside from cashews, you can also obtain good amounts of zinc from oysters — so don’t assume that these delectable sea creatures are only good for boosting one’s sex drive!
Oatmeal
It’s not just your tummy that will feel happy because oatmeal is so filling, but also your brain. That’s because oatmeal helps synthesize serotonin, a brain chemical that makes you feel good.
Bananas
Another healthy snack that can boost the brain’s serotonin levels is a piece of banana. Thanks to the complex carbs that it has, it can help give you the energy you need to carry out your tasks and responsibilities even when stressed.
Milk
Drinking a glass of milk is also an excellent idea. That’s because it can also promote synthesis of serotonin. Further, milk has blood-pressure regulating potassium, magnesium and calcium.
Dark Chocolate
Believe it or not, chocolate can actually help combat stress, thanks to the antioxidants it packs. However, make sure that you go for dark chocolate. Also, remember to consume it in moderation.
Oranges
We all know that oranges are rich in vitamin C, an enhancer of the immune system which can be weakened by chronic stress. Also, the smell of oranges is known to help lift your mood.
Asparagus
Whether broiled, steamed or stir fried, asparagus is the perfect snack if you’re stressed. That’s because it is packed with folic acid, which is actually a B vitamin that’s scientifically proven to relax your mind.
Broccoli
Another phenomenal source of that mind-relaxing folic acid is broccoli. However, see to it that you opt for healthy dips that won’t wreck your waistline as well as exacerbate your stress.
Raisins
They’re sweet and very much satisfying, plus experts say that consuming a handful or raisins can help normalize your blood pressure, something that can be increased by chronic stress.
Yogurt
Stress can have all sorts of unfavorable effects on your digestive system. An effective way to combat many of them is by snacking on probiotic-rich yogurt. Plain yogurt is definitely the best choice.
Tuna
Protein-rich tuna is a wonderful treat for someone who is stressed. That’s because it has lots of those healthy omega-3 fatty acids that are good for your brain functioning as well as mood.
Green Tea
It’s true that green tea has caffeine in it, but only in small amounts so it won’t make you even more stressed out. Besides, it also has theanine, an amino acid that can help improve concentration which stress tends to wipe out.
Chamomile Tea
Right before hopping into bed, have a cup of freshly-brewed chamomile tea which can soothe your stressed mind and body, thus allowing you to have a much-needed good night’s sleep.
