Top 10 Stress Relief Foods

Avocado and bananas

We know these two products, but what do they have in common? They're both rich in potassium, a trace mineral essential for normalizing blood pressure.

Tea

Calm your nerves with a cup of your favorite tea.

Swiss chard (chard)

Magnesium, found in Swiss chard and other leafy vegetables, helps balance the stress hormone cortisol.

Fatty fish

Heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids in fish like salmon, herring, and tuna help regulate adrenaline levels, helping you stay calm, balanced, and focused.

Whole grain pretzels

When browsing the vending machine's selection, opt for whole-grain snacks like whole-grain pretzels or crackers. Not only will the fiber fill you up, but the carbohydrates will also give you energy and signal your brain to release the "happiness hormone" serotonin.

Carrot

Chewing crunchy foods can help combat stress. Nutrient-rich carrots, celery, and other fresh vegetables make a satisfying, crunchy snack without adding a lot of calories.

Milk

Drink a glass to get more vitamin B, protein, vitamin D, and bone-strengthening calcium to relax tense muscles. Choose low-fat or skim milk. Try drinking milk before bed for a better night's rest.

Yogurt

Next time you're feeling stressed, put down the ice cream and replace it with a vibrant yogurt parfait.

Nuts

Stress depletes the body, making it more susceptible to illness. Almonds, pistachios, and walnuts will boost your immune system with vitamins and zinc.

Chocolate

Research shows that dark chocolate can reduce stress hormone levels. Chocolate also contains sugar (a carbohydrate), meaning it releases mood-boosting serotonin. Indulging is okay; just watch your portion sizes.