When you think about the term “stress eating,” it probably conjures up images (OK, recent memories) of binge-eating an entire bag of Kit Kats after a particularly crazy day at work. And though you certainly feel better in the moment, that little bit of relief subsides as soon as your stomachache kicks in. Here are seven foods that are proven to actually calm your nerves—and are good for you, too.
7 Foods That Can Calm Anxiety
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Published Jul 21, 2016
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Oranges
This vitamin C powerhouse does more than just fend off colds. It also helps to lower cortisol levels (aka the stress hormone) and your blood pressure (so you’re less frazzled).
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Avocados
They truly are the gift that keeps on giving. They’re delicious (no matter how you eat them) and, as it turns out, they’re rich in B vitamins--which help to relieve stress.
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Milk
There’s a reason why mom used to pour you a glass of milk before bed. With vitamins B2 and B12--and a hefty dose of protein--the beverage relaxes you quickly and sustainably.
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Spinach
Yet another reason to load up on these leafy greens? They’re loaded with magnesium, which helps to regulate cortisol levels.
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Asparagus
Packed with folic acid, these slender stalks keep you on an even keel when tensions are running high.
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Turkey
The food coma you feel every Thanksgiving isn’t just because you overate. The juicy bird has something called tryptophan, an amino acid that signals the brain to release serotonin, which makes you feel so calm that you’re a bit drowsy.
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Oatmeal
Skip the instant oats and stick to the steel-cut kind instead. Though both boost serotonin, the latter takes longer to digest (meaning the calming effects will last).
