What Should You Eat When You’re Stressed?

Stress is one of the main factors getting in the way of our health and happiness. And when we feel stressed, we often reach for foods that can make the situation worse. Read this and see if some small changes can make an instant impact…

Image Credit @ Tom Craig for Esquire

We all suffer from stress from time to time, and it can play havoc with not only our mood, but our skin and sleep quality, too. Looking and feeling our best is about taking a holistic approach to our health and beauty, which is why my Eat Beautiful philosophy is all about working from the inside-out. The same is true when it comes to tackling stress. Yes, we should address the outside factors causing us stress, but we can also make sure we’re eating the right foods and looking after ourselves from the inside-out, too. I’ve pulled together some of the best foods to reach for when you’re feeling anxious or stressed.

Image Credit @ Tom Craig for Esquire

What are the best foods to eat when stressed?

Eating these foods as part of a balanced diet may help to relieve stress.

Matcha Powder

Time for a matcha latte! Green tea is a good source of the L-theanine amino acid, and matcha is one of the best sources out there. Studies have shown that if the L-theanine content is high and the caffeine low, matcha may help to relieve stress.

Sweet Potato

Eating sweet potatoes may help to lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol. They also contain vitamin C and potassium, which are important for combatting the symptoms of stress. What’s more, if you’re prone to reaching for sugary snacks when you’re feeling stressed, sweet potato may satisfy your sweet craving.

Eggs

One of the most nutrient-dense foods out there, eggs are packed with vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants. Not only will these help keep your body healthy when you’re combatting stress, they are also rich in choline, which plays an important role in brain health and may help to prevent stress.

Image Credit @ David Loftus for Eat Beautiful

Fatty Fish

If you’re feeling stressed, try focusing on healthy, balanced meals over snacks. Salmon and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fats and vitamin D, both of which can help to reduce stress and improve mood.

Why not try my delicious fish pie recipe?

Blueberries

Blueberries are not only a great sweet snack if you’re feeling stressed and reaching for a comfort food, they are high in flavanoid antioxidants that have powerful anti-inflammatory effects and can also help promote better brain health. This can help to reduce stress-related inflammation and even improve your mood.

Pick up my book Eat Beautiful to find simple, healthy, seasonal recipes containing these stress-combatting foods and others that are sure to help you look and feel your best.

RECIPES: Healthy Breakfast Ideas | Baked Aubergine

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