UK Supermarkets Have Aisles Dedicated to Stress-Relief and Anxiety-Reducing Foods
Many people often envy the leisurely lifestyle of the British, sometimes spending half a day in a pub. Little do they know, the stress level among Britons is actually quite high. Statistics show that the average Briton spends 36 minutes a day feeling anxious, and every year, many people are forced to give up their normal work and lives due to depression. "Stress relief" has thus become a popular term in the UK, and "stress-relief foods" have gradually secured their own dedicated aisles.
Walking into any major UK supermarket chain, you will find shelves labeled "stress-relief foods," encompassing everything from rice and chocolate to yogurt, and from vegetables to beef and bread, covering almost all types of ingredients. Over the past 10 years, the "stress-relief food" market in the UK has grown into an industry with an annual profit exceeding £1 billion. Since 2006, sales of such foods have increased by 143%.
"Stress-relief foods" taste no different from their regular counterparts; the only difference is the addition of ingredients like Omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and various amino acids to help regulate mood and soothe emotions. For example, some breads are labeled with Omega-3 fatty acids. They are as soft and fluffy as regular bread but are said to improve memory and alleviate anxiety. Additionally, "mood foods" rich in B vitamins are mainly common everyday items like fruits, vegetables, meat, and rice, all of which help people to relax.
Although "mood foods" are about twice the price of similar regular foods, they are still purchased by many people. UK nutritionist Mike Franklin told reporters that the main buyers are middle-aged people, as they face pressure from all aspects of life and are becoming increasingly conscious of their health.