Dark chocolate
Many tend to intuitively seize adversity with sweet fragrant chocolate. It turns out that science is on their side. Chocolate is indeed considered a good antidepressant. Studies have shown that it reduces the levels of stress hormones – cortisol and catecholamines. Subjects under severe stress experienced improvement after two weeks of dark chocolate consumption. The daily norm was 40 g during the experiment. It is important that the chocolate be organic and contain as little sugar as possible.
Walnuts
One of the physiological symptoms of stress is hypertension. The abundance of alpha-linolenic acid in walnuts helps stabilize blood pressure. The polyunsaturated fatty acids that walnuts are rich in are also beneficial for normal circulation and resistance to cardiovascular stress.
Garlic
Garlic lowers cortisol levels, preventing the body from developing a chain reaction to stress. The allicin contained in garlic also strengthens the cardiovascular system, normalizes blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
Figs
Fresh or dried, figs are a source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. It is also a supplier of potassium, calcium and magnesium, essential for normal blood pressure and muscle function. Thanks to these properties, figs fight oxidative stress that occurs due to poor diet, smoking and environmental pollution.
Oatmeal
This cereal is a source of fiber and gives a feeling of satiety for a long time. Oatmeal contains complex carbohydrates, they raise the level of serotonin, and, consequently, mood.
Pumpkin seeds
Autumn’s favorite is pumpkin seeds – they contain an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, zinc and potassium. As well as more phenols, which act as antioxidants. These substances protect against pressure surges and reduce oxidative stress.
Chard
The dark green leafy vegetable is loaded with essential fat-soluble vitamins (A, C, E, and K) and minerals such as calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium. Chard contains a class of antioxidants known as betalains. This is protection against two birds with one stone, accompanying stress – high blood sugar and hypertension.
Marine Algae
In addition to the advantages listed above, marine life contains a lot of iodine, which is necessary for the thyroid gland to produce hormones. Thus, seaweed normalizes hormonal balance and increases resistance to stress.
Citrus
For centuries, the aroma of citrus fruits has been used to relieve tension. In addition to the smell, you need to remember the large amount of ascorbic acid in oranges and grapefruits. In one study, obese children suffering from psychological stress were given sufficient amounts of citrus fruits. At the end of the experiment, their blood pressure was no worse than that of thin children who did not experience stress.
Who would have thought that you can relieve the effects of stress not with the help of drugs, but simply by making adjustments to your diet. Proper food is a healthy and strong psyche, and no problems can shake the strength of the body.