Choosing the right foods can help relax your tense nerves. The following delicious and common foods can drive away stress and eliminate the harm caused by long-term stress on the body. Stock up on these foods at home, and the next time stress and food are together, you can eat the stress first, then enjoy the food. Women should eat more almonds and pistachios to relieve stress.
Almonds
When you're on the verge of a breakdown in the middle of chaos, grab a handful of U.S. almonds to try. Almonds are rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that can boost immunity. Almonds also contain vitamin B, which helps you cope with exceptionally terrible events. Eating about a quarter cup of almonds daily can effectively relieve stress. Another good way to relieve stress is to ditch traditional peanut butter on high-pressure days and replace it with almond butter.
In addition to relieving stress, U.S. almonds can also prevent diabetes. Research shows that adding U.S. almonds to your diet, especially at breakfast, can help maintain healthy insulin levels. Insulin helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels and is beneficial for treating the most common type of diabetes, type 2. Moreover, almonds are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, protein, dietary fiber, and trace elements like zinc, calcium, and magnesium. Adding a handful of crispy and delicious almonds to your breakfast not only upgrades the nutrition and fun of your breakfast but also comprehensively improves your health!
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Pistachios, Walnuts
Pistachios or walnuts are also good choices. When stress hits, they can prevent a rapid heartbeat. Dr. Jera West, an associate professor of biobehavioral health at Penn State, explains: "When facing stress, the cardiovascular system reacts immediately due to the stress response." As stress increases, adrenaline raises blood pressure, so it's necessary to reduce the burden on the heart. Dr. West found in her research that eating a handful of Wonderful Pistachios daily can lower blood pressure and reduce the burden on the heart. Studies have also found that walnuts have a blood pressure-lowering effect. You can add 30 grams of almonds, pistachios, or walnuts to salads, cereals, and other grain-based foods.
Avocado
The next time you crave high-fat, creamy foods, skip the ice cream and make your own avocado dip instead. Its rich, creamy texture can satisfy your craving and reduce agitation. Additionally, the monounsaturated fats and potassium in avocados can lower blood pressure. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, one of the best ways to lower high blood pressure is to consume enough potassium. Half an avocado can provide 487 milligrams of potassium, which is more than a medium-sized banana. To make your own avocado dip, mash one medium-sized avocado, add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice, and a pinch of chili powder.
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