Face it: life can throw a lot at you, and when stress starts to build, you want to ensure you're doing everything you can to keep it in check. One often overlooked tool? Your plate. The foods you eat can majorly affect how both body and mind handle stress. Here are five of my favorite foods to help keep stress at bay.
- Blueberries
These bite-sized snacks are packed with flavonoid antioxidants that help protect your brain and body from stress-related inflammation. This also sets your body up to boost mood and fend off depression. They’re easy to add to any meal too: Just toss a handful in a morning smoothie, sprinkle a spoonful in yogurt or oatmeal, or grab a handful for a snack.
- Fatty Fish
Fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, essential for brain health. These help regulate mood and improve your body's response to stress. Plus, they're a great source of vitamin D, which supports mental health and stress regulation. Just grill a salmon for dinner, or throw a few sardines onto a salad for an omega-3-packed lunch.
- Eggs
Eggs, particularly the yolks, are full of choline, a nutrient critical for brain health and stress management. Think of eggs as nature's multivitamin, with amino acids, vitamins, and minerals that help your body combat stress. You can scramble two or three of them for breakfast, hard-boil a few for a snack, or toss a poached egg onto a salad or grain bowl.
- Kimchi
Fermented foods like kimchi are rich in probiotics, which champion your gut health. And as we know, a healthy gut can have a direct impact on your mood and stress levels. Try a bowl of kimchi as a flavorful side dish, toss it into your stir-fries, or add it to any taco Tuesday for a spicy, gut-friendy twist.
- Swiss Chard
This leafy green is packed with magnesium, a mineral known for its stress-fighting abilities. Magnesium is essential for your body's stress response, and low levels can increase anxiety and panic attacks. Just saute Swiss chard with garlic and olive oil, mix it into soups or add it to a smoothie.
DEZI ABEYTA is a veteran who has worked with MLB athletes and teams while also presenting his ideas in a TedX talk. He focuses heavily on sustainable eating habits over diets. Follow him on Instagram at @deziabeyta.