9 Superfoods To Reduce Stress

How can you beat stress with healthy eating?

Take a look at these 9 superfoods:

1.   Spinach
I was a big fan of Popeye. You know…
Spinach is rich in magnesium, a mineral that helps us to calm our nervous system.
It also regulates the function of the hypothalamus — a part of our brain that controls the stress response.

2.    Blueberries
I love blueberries! I spent my first 12 years picking them up in the forest a few steps from home.
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, which help us neutralize bad molecules known as free radicals.
Those free radicals can also be produced in response to stress.

3.    Walnuts
I’m a big fan of walnuts.
I eat 180 grams of them every day.
As we know, walnuts contain omega-3 and antioxidants.
Meaning they can reinforce our brain health and protect cells from oxidative stress.

4.    Salmon
Salmon, like walnuts, is rich in omega 3, so it’s perfect for our brain health.
Plus, it contains vitamin D, which can help us to regulate our mood.

5.    Dark Chocolate
I prefer savory to sweet, so I’m not a big eater of dark chocolate.
But back when I was an athlete, nutritionists always recommended it.
Why?
Because it triggers the release of endorphins, which enhance our mood.
Plus, dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants.

6.    Sauerkraut
I grew up in the Dolomites, Italy, on the border with Austria.
Austria is known for its sauerkraut.
So I ate a lot of sauerkraut in my first 19 years!
Sauerkraut contains probiotics, which can support gut health and reduce stress.
It’s an alternative to dairy products for people like me who don’t eat it.

7.    Tofu
Tofu contains magnesium, which as we’ve seen calms our nervous system and promotes relaxation
8.    Green Tea
Since I was an athlete I’ve always drunk green tea.
Why?
Because it contains L-theanine, an amino acid that can have a calming effect on our body and mind.

9.    Avocado
Ah, my beloved avocado! I love it!
Avocado contains monounsaturated fats, which support brain health and stabilize our mood.
It also contains potassium, which helps us regulate blood pressure and has a calming effect on our body.
Try guacamole! You’re gonna love it!

Ugh, my stomach’s growling!
How cool is it that we can calm our stress by eating these delicacies?