No matter how much we love our jobs, how successful we are, or how pleasant our lives are, stress is still a part of life. And while there are many ways to handle the stress in our lives, sometimes eating a few foods to reduce cortisol can be just the thing we need.
Trying to eat your way to calm? Here are 15 foods that will help you do just that:
- Oatmeal – Oatmeal is a great breakfast option because it’s packed with fiber, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients can help lower cortisol levels, which may help you sleep better and feel more relaxed throughout the day.
- Berries – The antioxidant properties of berries can help lower cortisol levels and protect your body from damage caused by free radicals. Berries also contain melatonin, which is known for its ability to improve sleep quality and reduce stress levels.
- Bananas – Bananas contain vitamins B6 and B5, as well as tryptophan. Tryptophan and bananas have been linked to lowered cortisol levels. Plus, bananas are perfect for any time of day because they’re easy to pack and they keep you full longer than other fruits.
- Tuna: tuna is a rich source of vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), which has been shown in several studies to be effective in reducing stress. In fact, people who have the highest vitamin B6 levels in their bodies have the lowest stress levels.Tuna is also packed with omega-3 fatty acids, which are also anti-inflammatory and great for reducing anxiety and depression. They’re also known for decreasing cravings for carbs.
- Walnuts: walnuts are one of the best sources of alpha-linolenic acid which has been shown to decrease cortisol levels and reduce anxiety. It has also been found to improve mood and boost cognitive function in older adults.
- Pumpkin seeds: pumpkin seeds contain L-tryptophan, an essential amino acid that converts into serotonin – the “feel good” hormone. Eating pumpkin seeds regularly can help keep your serotonin levels balanced and prevent you from overeating or binge eating when you’re feeling stressed out or depressed.
