The foods that can help reduce stress and anxiety

Overall health is important to our well-being and physical comfort. Part of overall health is being mindful of the food we consume. As we age, the number of medications that we take increases, sometimes adding up to several, and even entering the double digits. The constant use of several medications, while it might be beneficial in some areas of our body and aid in controlling pain, can take a toll on your body.

Some medications can cause you to not absorb the correct amount of nutrients, while others might have negative side effects that could be better managed with a healthier diet and lifestyle. Sometimes certain medications can even cause you to lose your appetite, meaning you need to be very cautious of when and what you eat. Keep a list of what you have eaten throughout the day to ensure that you are getting enough nutrients and calories.

The food you eat can improve the effectiveness of the medication, and might even lower the dosage you need to take for it to be effective. The less medication you have to take, the better. It is always more beneficial to pack your body with the nutrients it needs, as a healthier body and mind will always make you feel better overall.

Foods packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals can help repair the body in time of distress or injury. There are several superfoods that are both light and easy to find. Some superfoods include kale, spinach, avocados, Brussel sprouts, quinoa, blueberries, Chia seeds, strawberries, and pomegranates. Superfoods are exactly what they sound like – super. These foods quickly recharge your body with all, or more, than the daily nutrients needed. Superfoods are packed with a variety of different things, some with vitamin A, some with healthy oils and fats, or antioxidants and fibre. They have also been found to naturally combat stress and anxiety, more so than your favourite comfort foods. They can also help lower your blood pressure and provide your brain with the number of nutrients needed to combat stress and anxiety, therefore calming you down in a very healthy and natural way.

Protein is also very important in naturally combating stress and anxiety. High amounts of protein can be found in legumes, beans, lean meats, and nuts. Protein gives your body extra strength needed to repair itself, among other things. Other nutrients to keep in mind that are best for reducing stress and anxiety are foods rich in fibre such as, artichokes, black beans and brown rice.

While there are several beneficial foods you should try to eat more of, there are also some foods you should avoid. Foods or other substances that are high in caffeine, sugar and unhealthy fats will increase stress and anxiety. These substances can cause your blood pressure and blood sugar to increase, making you more susceptible to stress and anxiety.

Try to feed your body mostly healthy foods; items that are packed with beneficial nutrients. Also, try to maintain a consistent eating schedule with regular snacks throughout the day. Keeping your body and mind in check, and ensuring you always have the proper number of nutrients will greatly help your body naturally combat stress and anxiety.

At Haven House, they believe nutrition plays a vital role in overall health and nutrition following substance abuse, or just during a general drug detoxification Haven House program. While medications play a vital role in our lives, especially as we age, the need for a healthy diet never goes away. Rather you are taking several medications for a prolonged period, or just for a short time during recovery, your medication will always be more effective when combined with a healthy diet, packed full of nutrients. Healthy foods will always help you down the path of recovery, medication management and combating stress and anxiety.

Have you tried using diet to manage stress and anxiety?