5 foods that will help you relax

Veggy Malta looks at five simple ways to help us relax using food and natural products. It is useful to learn how to cope with stressful moments using a natural medicine box. We look at 5 different ways using odours and food that may help you relax.

Every different type of food is made up of different chemicals, nutrients and vitamins. They are these properties that make one food better than another for specific reason. You an look at food as a menu system, but rather than having a menu of foods you can have a menu based on the different effects you wish from your food. In this case we are looking for foods that have a calming and relaxing effect.

Just as if you are hungry and stressed out, avoid grabbing the first food you find and binging on it. The probability is that the closest and easiest fast food might not be the best food to help you relax. Stay away from sugar highs as they are shortly followed by crashes.

Here are some ideas of what you can take.

A spoonful of honey

Honey is known to contain high levels of tryptophan. This compound is responsible for reducing anxiety and relaxing your nerves. So you can take a spoon of honey with your toast in the morning, or with your tea or possibly with your (vegetarian) yogurt. [1] Honey is also a natural skin moisturiser and antibiotic.

Dab some lavender

If you have some peppermint essential oil put a bit on the diffuser, as lavender is attributed in having a calming effect. You can also put a few drops of essential oil in your bath and relax in it.  Some quality you time after a day of work. [2]

Sip some Green tea

Don’t go red with anger, take a cup of green herbal tea. Green tea is known to contain L-Theanine, which is a chemical that calms and relives stress. Furthermore drinking a cup of decaffeinated green tea before going to sleep will help you chill out after a long day at the office.

Blueberries

Blueberries contain strong phytonutrients and antioxidants that can help improve your body’s ability to fight stress and also stress-related free radicals. Try adding the blueberries to some yogurt for breakfast, or as an easy snack. [3] Blueberries also contain vitamin C which will help boost your immunity system.

A few bites of chocolate

When all else fails, take a bite or two of dark chocolate. Studies show that the polyphenols contained in cocoa beans seem to reduce the level of cortisol (stress hormones).[4] Make sure you are eating a 70% and over cocoa chocolate (and maybe vegan as well).

Disclaimer: The information and content on this site is intended to be of general informational use. It is not intended to constitute medical advice, medical diagnosis, or medical treatment. They are not intended to replace a one-to-one relationship with a qualified health care professional. You should always consult your doctor or other health care professional before making any changes in your diet, exercise pattern or lifestyle.