Feeling guilty about being on pasta and chocolates while you were feeling a bit blue? Relax. Savoring your favorite delicacies while you’re on the verge of freaking can actually help clam the nerves. Of course, that depends lot on what food are you biting into. listed below are certain foods that help counteract the ill effects of stress on your system.
BANANAS
Bananas are rich in potassium and carbohydrates. Carbohydrates have a relaxing effect as they produce the neurotransmitter, serotonin which give out a sense of clam.Potassium deficiencies are associated with breathlessness, fatigue, insomnia and low-blood sugar which are often triggered by stress. Potassium is also essential for healthy heart muscles.
To beat stress, consume two bananas a day. For long lasting effects, try foods that contain complex carbs and are also a lot more palatable such as spaghetti, pasta, macaroni, potatoes, peas, beans, lentils etc.
FINGER MILLET – Raagi
Finger millet contain calcium. Research has shown that calcium helps reduce irritability and nervousness. It has also been found to be particularly effective in alleviating symptoms associated with premenstrual stress.
Consume two tablespoon daily in your chapatis, by simply mixing it with your wheat flour.
APPLES
apples contain phosphorus and iron and help reduces oxidative stress. It also help in cell-regenerating. As the skin is first to show signs of stress, apples can help counter that by helping build healthy skin and hair tissues.
Try consuming one apple a day. Choose whole apples over fruit over fruit juice as the fiber is lost in juices. However, apples must NOT be consumed on an empty stomach as this may trigger indigestion.
AMLA
It is by far the most widely used herb in Ayurveda and it offers many benefits, one of which is its ability to fight the ill effects of stress. Amla comes loaded with vitamin capillaries flexible. One of the first signs of stress is constriction of blood vessels and capillaries right through the body and vitamin C can help counter this.
Have two amlas a day. Also, does not lose its properties when dried and there you can enjoy the same benefits from dried amla when the fruit is not in season.
OATS
Oats are an excellent source of soluble fiber which has been associated with reduced cholesterol levels and reduced risk of heart disease. Oats are also loaded with phytochemicals which in turn help regulate the digestive system and blood sugar levels, which are adversely affected by stress.
Consume three tablespoons of oats a day. Oats or oat barn may be added to cereals, yogurt, salads etc. oatmeal can also be part of your breakfast routine. Or you could also try using whole oat flour instead of white flour in baking.
CHAMOMILE
Previously chamomile was used to calm hysteria but today it is used to relieve anxiety. It has proven that it also has some anti spasmodic properties and can help relieve cramps and several digestive problems associated with nervous disorder.
I would recommend to have a cup of chamomile tea when you are under pressure.
FLAXSEED
This is most effective stress busting foods. The three major components of flax seed are omega-3, lignans (a phyto-chemical) and fibre. Omega 3 reduces risk of developing cardio vascular disease. Lignans inhibit the action of estrogen in the body and also act as anti oxidants. Whereas, fibre regulates digestive function and lowers cholesterol levels.
Make sure you restrict your intake to one teaspoon per day or your risk piling on the pounds.
SOYA
Soy products are low in fat and loaded with fibre, phyto-chemicals and magnesium. Magnesium is referred to as nature tranquilizers and is associated with the protection of heart health, magnesium also promote the proper conduction of nerve impulses and ensure normal muscular contraction.
Magnesium is also a powerful relaxer which is evident from the increased anesthetic effect. Three tea spoons a day is recommended.
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