Here is Part II of these wonderfully delicious stress-relieving foods.

10. Fatty fish like mackerel, herring, salmon, and sardines are very rich in omega-3 fats and vitamin D; both nutrients that have been shown to help reduce stress levels and improve mood.  Omega-3s are essential to brain health, mood and may be linked to the body’s ability to handle stress.    Vitamin D plays a critical role in mental health and stress regulation as well. Low levels are associated with an increased risk of anxiety and depression.

 

11. Parsley is a wonderfully delicious and nutritious herb that’s packed with antioxidants which are compounds that neutralize unstable molecules called free radicals and protect against oxidative stress.  Oxidative stress is associated with many illnesses, including mental health disorders like depression and anxiety. Antioxidants  can also help reduce inflammation, which is often high in those with chronic stress.

 

 

 

 

12. Garlic is high in sulfur compounds that help increase levels of glutathione which is an antioxidant that is part of your body’s first line of defense against stress.

13. Tahini is a rich spread made from sesame seeds, which are an excellent source of the amino acid L-tryptophan.  L-tryptophan is a precursor of the mood-regulating neurotransmitters dopamine and serotonin which may help boost mood and ease symptoms of depression and anxiety.

 

 

14. Sunflower seeds are rich in vitamin E. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that acts as a powerful antioxidant and is essential for mental health. A low intake of this nutrient is associated with depression.  Sunflower seeds are also high in other stress-reducing nutrients such as magnesium, manganese, selenium, zinc, B vitamins, and copper.

 

 

 

 

 

15. Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable like Cauliflower, Brussel sprouts, Cabbage and Bok Choi (among many others) renowned for their health benefits. A diet rich in cruciferous vegetables may lower your risk of certain cancers, heart disease, and mental health disorders like depression.  Cruciferous vegetables are some of the most concentrated food sources of some nutrients like magnesium, vitamin C, and folate which have been proven to combat depressive symptoms.

 

16. Chickpeas are packed with stress-fighting vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, potassium, B vitamins, zinc, selenium, manganese, copper and L-tryptophan.  These legumes are also rich in L-tryptophan, which your body needs to produce mood-regulating neurotransmitters.

 

 

17. Chamomile is a medicinal herb that has been used since ancient times as a natural stress reducer. Its tea and extract have been shown to promote sleep and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

 

 

18. Blueberries (my personal favorites) are associated with a number of health benefits, including improved mood. They are high in flavanoids antioxidants that have powerful anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. They may help reduce stress-related inflammation and protect against stress-related cellular damage.

Learn more here: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/stress-relieving-foods