There are many ways to reduce anxiety from using exercise to getting enough sleep to including certain foods in your diet. The following five foods are known to help mitigate anxiety, so try adding them as a regular part of your healthy eating.

Foods That Help Mitigate Anxiety

1. Eggs

Eggs are an easy addition to most lifestyles and contain essential vitamin D, which is known to improve moods. Eggs are also a complete protein; as such, they aid the body in a myriad of functions such as bone and tissue growth and healing. Eggs also contain tryptophan, an amino acid involved in the production of serotonin. Serotonin — one of the “feel-good” chemicals the brain produces — regulates sleep and mood.

2. Brazil Nuts

These large, mild nuts from South America contain selenium, a mineral that is thought to reduce body-wide inflammation. Inflammation can be increased in those who have anxiety. Selenium, as well as the vitamin E present in most nuts, are both antioxidants and may ease the symptoms of anxiety disorders. 

3. Fatty Fish

Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and trout, are chock full of healthy nutrients such as Omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin D, and protein. The Omega-3 acids DHA and EPA assist the body to regulate serotonin and dopamine. Both are chemicals that have an anti-anxiety and calming effect. Vitamin D, as mentioned, supports a positive mood.

4. Dark Chocolate

While super-dark varieties may be an acquired taste, chocolate consisting of at least 70% cacao is a tasty mood-booster. Dark chocolate contains magnesium, tryptophan, and flavonoids. All of these substances are thought to improve mood, increase serotonin, and reduce anxiety and symptoms of stress, such as elevated levels of cortisol. 

5. Bananas

Bananas are convenient on-the-go snacks and are full of potassium, which helps to maintain a healthy blood pressure and electrolyte balance. Potassium is a stress-reducer, and low potassium levels have been linked with anxiety. Pumpkin seeds, tomatoes, and leafy greens are also rich in potassium and excellent choices to include in your diet.

The body needs a varied, balanced diet that’s rich in healthy proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Choose fresh, whole foods for the best nutritional content and good effect on your body and to reduce anxiety symptoms. Peggy Sealfon-Stonewater Studio offers life coaching and self-development techniques for stress relief and to reduce anxiety. Register today for her free
7-day food strategy to jump-start healthy food choices. Her best-selling book Escape From Anxiety—Supercharge Your Life With Powerful Strategies from A to Z is available on Amazon. Peggy is an internationally recognized expert in reducing anxiety, stress, and the fears that plague daily life. She speaks nationally and sees clients for private sessions in person and on SKYPE as well as offering group programs. Visit her website to see her programs, books, and speaking topics.