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What Foods Help With Stress

If you're feeling stressed at work, it could be something you drank. According to the Stress Relief Handbook, caffeine can help increase the production of a stress-causing hormone called cortisol. In addition, alcohol can be a depressant if consumed in large quantities, and sugar can leave you feeling drained after an initial high. To combat these effects, eat foods that ease stress such as green vegetables, berries, chicken, turkey and whole grains.

  1. Vegetables

    • Green vegetables such as spinach, broccoli, kale, collard greens, romaine lettuce, Brussels sprouts, green peppers, peas and green beans contain potassium and B-complex vitamins. These are vital in the creation of serotonin, a mood-boosting chemical. In an interview with trainer and nutritionist Bob Greene, Dr. Rovenia Brock identifies chickpeas and red, orange and yellow bell peppers as stress-reducing foods that contain vitamin A, vitamin C and folate. These help enhance energy and revitalize cells damaged by stress.

    Berries

    • Blueberries contain a high concentration of vitamin C, vitamin E, manganese and fiber. They also contain antioxidants that help your body cleanse itself of impurities, and help decrease cholesterol. The fiber content in blueberries also helps promote healthy bowel movements. Strawberries are a good source of folate, potassium fiber, vitamin C and manganese. They also have nutrients called phenols that are anti-inflammatory and help fight cancer. Blackberries have a fiber known as pectin -- also found in apples -- that can help lower cholesterol.

    Chicken and Turkey

    • Chicken and turkey can help relieve stress because both contain tryptophan, an essential amino acid that regulates nervous system functions such as rest, sleep and relaxation. Tryptophan also helps regulate your appetite and elevate your mood. Though tryptophan is also found in red meat, nuts, seed and tuna, it has a higher concentration in chicken and turkey and is the source of that sleepy, content feeling some people get after a Thanksgiving meal.

    Whole Grains

    • Whole grains have been getting a lot of attention due to a number of health benefits. According to the Whole Grains Council, whole grains reduce the risk of stroke and heart disease, improve weight control and help the body maintain healthier blood pressure levels. Some common whole grains are brown rice, oatmeal, whole oats and barley. Brown rice is a good example of a whole grain that can help reduce stress because unlike white rice, it doesn't increase blood sugar and cause fluctuations that can contribute to higher stress levels.

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