When you are stressed life becomes more difficult. But reducing stress can be complicated in our busy every day lives. Nonetheless, when it comes to your diet there are quite a few things you can do to lower stress levels and calm down.

 

Now, some people might think that all foods are calming foods, and just eating will make them feel better. The problem with most comfort foods, however, is that they are also high in calories and do no promote health.

 

So there’s a huge difference between using a food’s inherently calming properties and eating any kind of food to feel better. That latter might give you a temporary sense of calm, but it’s a quick fix that wears off way too fast.

 

So, what are some foods that will boost your mood and promote health? Here is a quick list that will help you get started.

Omega-3 fatty acids provide building blocks for healthy brain development and function, and might even help prevent mental diseases like ADHD or Alzheimer’s.

 

Since many people get too little Omega 3 fatty acids these should definitely be included in a well-rounded stress reducing diet. Some studies even suggest that they help fight depression, however, the findings aren’t definitive so we cant be sure.

Vitamin B12 deficiencies are fairly common among vegans and have been linked to increased stress levels and reduction in overall health. The problem is that animal proteins like meat and eggs are the best sources of B12 so as a vegan you would probably want to consider supplementing.

 

Even though you could theoretically get it from plant-based sources, this would be impractical as the required amount is simply too high. If you are not a vegan make sure to get your vitamin B12 from quality beef like grass-fed beef.

Brazil nuts are the world’s best source of selenium, which is an essential mineral so our body cannot produce it from other minerals and we have to get it from food.

 

Selenium is not only vital to hormone production but it also works with other nutrients to balance antioxidants in our body’s cells. Several studies have shown a relationship between lower than normal selenium levels and depression.

 

So if you feel down or even suffer from depression,  check for selenium deficiencies and get some  Brazil nuts. One or two a day will be enough to bring your Selenium back to normal.

Blueberries are not just a delicious fruit. Their high amount of vitamins, phytonutrients (plant nutrients), and antioxidants are extremely beneficial when wanting to reduce stress.

 

In fact, anthocyanins, which are the pigments that give them their deep color. They also aid your brain in the production of dopamine. Dopamine is critical for your memory function and your mood so make sure to stock up on Blueberries.