11 foods to eat when you're stressed

Everybody deals with stress differently. Some people like to sweat it out at the gym while others prefer to eat their worries away. If you fall in the latter category, the good news is your stress-eating might not be such a bad thing. Just make sure you’re choosing the right foods…

Oatmeal with berries and walnuts

The B vitamins in oats help to stabilise mood, and the vitamin C found in berries keeps stress at bay. Sprinkle on some walnuts for bonus benefits -  the omega-3s boost endorphins, making you feel happier.

Brown rice sushi with salmon

Opting for brown rice will increase your serotonin levels (the hormone responsible for making you feel calm), while the salmon improves brain health and protects you from stress-induced diseases.

Cashews

Cashews are high in magnesium and tryptophan, both of which will help you to calm down. Plus, the zinc content will enhance your immune system.

Dark chocolate

Chocolate releases endorphins (the hormone that makes us happy) and can lower blood pressure. Go for the dark variety as it’s higher in antioxidants.

A green smoothie

A hit of green veggies will give your body a much-needed energy boost, increasing productivity and reducing anxiety.

Sweet potato

This antioxidant-rich veggie works hard to fight those free radicals and toxins that form when you’re overly stressed. So if you can’t risk falling ill, it’s definitely one to pop on the menu.

Avocado toast

The omega-3s in avocado increase your energy and enhance your problem-solving and memory skills. Choose wholegrain bread as it’s loaded with vitamin B, which helps with brain function.

Quinoa

Besides being high in fibre and protein, quinoa also contains magnesium, which helps to relax blood vessels and balance blood sugar levels. Try adding it to stir-fries to keep stress under control.

Apples with tahini

Snacking on an apple alone will help to produce antidepressant neurotransmitters (a signal to the brain). Combine it with tahini, and you’ll also benefit from some stress-relieving calcium.

Hard-boiled eggs

Yolks contain an essential nutrient called chlorine, which helps to support memory and tyrosine to make you feel more alert. Plus, the protein hit will keep you feeling full and stop you from reaching for those not-so-healthy stress snacks.

Banana with almond butter

The high content of B6 in bananas will boost your serotonin levels (the calming hormone), while almond butter provides a healthy dose of protein and fat to stabilise blood sugar.

How do you cope with stress?