Over at CNET, Taylor Leamey offers up a nice read on eight foods that have been linked with a reduction in symptoms of anxiety.
Click here to read, but I’ll give you the really short version.
Yogurt: It’s all about the prebiotics and probiotics. Vast research has talked about the gut-brain connection. So much so that it’s almost canon that your gut bacteria affects your mood.
Almonds: He notes that almonds have 20% of your daily recommended value of magnesium. Magnesium can help with mild symptoms of anxiety. As can Vitamin C, which almonds also have.
Blueberries: The antioxidants and Vitamin C. Research has shown both can help with anxiety.
Salmon: Here’s something I didn’t know. Research shows regularly eating salmon can help regulate your cortisol and adrenaline levels. The flight-or-fight thing. That’s not only important for anxiety, but also really important for overall health. Moreover, the fatty acids can regulate dopamine and serotonin levels.
Turkey: This took me by surprise. It’s about the tryptophan. Tryptophan is an essential amino acid, and eating foods with a lot of tryptophan can help decrease anxiety.
Dark Chocolate: This has been in the news a lot lately, with the high levels of lead found in some brands. So I’d recommend checking Consumer Labs or Consumer Reports on the right type. But dark chocolate has a lot of flavonols that can both reduce cortisol and increase blood flow to the brain.
Turmeric: Studies have shown this spice is linked to lower levels of anxiety and depression. Plus, it’s famously anti-inflammatory.
Avocados: They’ve got a lot of B vitamins, which can play an important role in mental health. Plus, they’ve got tryptophan, too.
The great thing about these foods is that they’re all really good for your body, too — depending on allergies and how you tolerate them.
Now the caveat that I always mention is this — I am definitely not one of those Christians who’s “Go all natural, bro.”
I’m a huge believer in talking to your doctor about medication, and I’m on medication myself that has saved my life.
I’ve tried diet, exercise etc in place of medication, and for me, I need medication, as well.
But everyone’s experience with this disease is different.
The best thing is to talk with a doctor.
Also…
Find a psychiatrist here.
Find a therapist here.
[Painting: Apples and Oranges, Cezanne]
