If you feel the need to keep calm and restore some balance, try getting more of these foods into your diet

We live in stressful times, and we might often feel anxious about things out of our control. We’re not talking here about an anxiety disorder, which is a common mental illness, and one that deserves attention and medical care. Rather, we’re referring to a feeling of fear or unpleasant uneasiness in response to an approaching event and encounter that you believe might be stressful. 

For many people, prioritising sleep, getting enough exercise and including certain foods in the diet can be beneficial. 

Image: Shutterstock Foods High In EPA And DHA

EPA and DHA are two potent omega-3 fatty acids that are known to have positive effects on brain activity, and to reduce inflammation of the brain cells, which can lead to you feeling anxious. The fatty acids also regulate the release of the calming hormones dopamine and serotonin, and improve your brain’s ability to adapt to change and so handle stress. 

Good sources: Seaweed, spirulina, nori and chlorella 

Research shows that diets that are low in magnesium can be connected to anxiety-related behaviours. Magnesium is key in regulating the brain’s neurotransmitters, which send messages to your body and brain. Good sources: Leafy greens, avocados, whole grains, beans, seeds and nuts

If you don’t get enough antioxidants, you could be setting yourself up to get anxious. You could even ease some of the symptoms of anxiety with an antioxidant-rich diet. Good sources: Turmeric, broccoli, ginger, beans, leafy greens, apples and walnuts 

Foods Rich in Prebiotics And Probiotics

A healthy gut microbiome = a happier person. A gut microbiome needs prebiotics and probiotics to get happy, and to lower inflammation and improve brain health. Good sources: Yoghurt, kimchi and other fermented products (probiotics); garlic, onions and bananas (prebiotics)

Green Or Chamomile Tea (Duh!)

Green tea and chamomile tea (main image) have long been known to reduce anxiety. Green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that increases the production of serotonin and dopamine and so brings down anxiety, while chamomile is rich in antioxidants that brings down inflammatory markers.

Avoid These! To avoid feeling uneasy, cut down your consumption of caffeine, alcohol, artificial food additives, trans fats and high sugar foods.

Also get enough sleep, exercise and meditative time, reduce your intake of caffeine and alcohol, and try journalling. This is, admittedly, a very simple way of looking at easing anxiety. If you have been feeling anxious for over six months, you need to consider making lifestyle changes and getting medical help. 

Also see: Detox Your Body With An Ayurvedic Breakfast

Eat These Foods To Avoid That Uneasy Feeling 

Detox Your Body With An Ayurvedic Breakfast

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