WVEL Healthwatch: Top 5 Stress-Busting Foods

Just how stressed are you? According to the American Psycological Association and hellobeautiful.com, more than half (56%) of adults say they are doing an excellent or very good job of knowing when they are feeling stressed, but only about half as many (26%) report doing an excellent or very good job at preventing themselves from becoming stressed.

Here are the top 5 stress-busting foods that can help keep your health on track no matter what life throws your way!

1) Want to lower blood pressure? "Feel Like A Nut" with Walunts:

The Omega-3s found in nuts help the body maintain a lower blood pressure during stressful situations. The highest Omega-3 packing nut are walnut; so the next time you feel the need for a quick snack, grab a handful before your next presentation and represent for real!

2) Want to reduce stress? Feel the warm & fuzzy with Kiwi's:

Kiwi’s have a high Vitamin C content and therefore helps reduce stress hormone levels in the bloodstream. Add this fuzzy skinned fruit to your next fruit salad for a sweet, delightful, and tasty treat.

3) Want to give your serotonin levels a boost? Try Oatmeal-The Breakfast Of Champions:

It's no wonder that this breakfast staple is so popular. A small serving of oatmeal contains powerful complex carbohydrates and can boost serotonin levels. And when your serotonin levels are kicked up, you are left feeling you more relaxed. Just think of this "breakfast champion" as a better way to start your day!

4) Do you have anxiety? Dark Chocolate to the rescue:

 Studies show that regular consumption of a modest amount of dark chocolate can help reduce anxiety in those prone to it.  Looking for an inexpensive portioned controlled way to indulge? Grab a bag of these in chip form. 32 dark chocolate chips only have 70 calories. With a snack like this, you definitely can't go wrong!

5) Feeling irritable? Make Strawberries the berry right choice:

High in magnesium, strawberries can help reduce anxiety and irritability. Add some to your post workout smoothie or slice a few over your cereal in the morning. Strawberries mix well with just about any fruit and even some veggies. So the next time you make a berry choice, make sure that choice of berry is strawberries!

Now you know the next time what to snack on when you feel stressed. Try these foods out, you'll be glad that you did! Until next time, stay blessed & be well!! 

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