Healthy Foods to Reduce Stress

A healthy diet is good for your body and mind, and can help to reduce stress. By choosing the right foods, you can be on your way to a less stressful life.

Significance

If lately you feel stressed out and your body is feeling sluggish, then maybe you should consider changing your diet. There are certain types of food that you can eat to help you to reduce your stress. Your diet should consist of foods containing proteins, carbohydrates and potassium.

Proteins

The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends that you eat two to three ounces of protein at least two to three times a day. Proteins include meats, beans, nuts, seeds and dairy. Also, choose low-fat meats such as beef, ham, lamb and chicken. Soy, kidney and pinto beans are all a good choices, and for a good protein snack, consider almonds or cashews with a glass of milk.

Carbohydrates

Try to eat at least three ounces of complex carbohydrates daily. Some good choices for this food group include brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, whole-wheat breads and oatmeal. Cornflakes are a good option for breakfast.

Potassium

Foods that contain potassium include fruits and vegetables and the USDA suggest two to four servings per day of fruit, and three to five servings of vegetables. Good vegetable choices to reduce stress and maintain good health are broccoli, spinach, carrots and sweet potatoes. For fruits, try apples, bananas, strawberries and oranges. You also can enjoy a glass of 100 percent fruit or vegetable juice occasionally.

Benefits

By eating a properly balanced meals, you will feel sharper and stronger. With a focused and balanced mind and body, your muscles will start to relax and this helps melt away the stress.