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Foods that will help fight stressful situations
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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American psychotherapists have provided a popular medical publication with interesting information about how stress can be combated not only with medications and psychotherapy, but also by changing your diet. Several years ago, therapists from the United States began working on research into the relationship between the nutrition system and a person’s mental state. After numerous experiments in which patients of the popular therapist voluntarily participated, a book was published with “recipes” and recommendations on daily diet during stressful situations.
According to experts, to maintain a good mood and well-being, one should adhere to a specially developed nutrition system, which is described in detail in the book "The De-Stress Diet". Experiments conducted by therapists helped to compile an approximate list of products that have a beneficial effect on the nervous system and help combat stressful situations.
The first product on the list was celery. Doctors believe that dishes with a high content of this vegetable can have a calming effect. Experiments conducted earlier in Europe have proven that to relieve symptoms of too high blood pressure, which is one of the main signs of being in a stressful situation, it is enough to eat 2 to 4 celery stalks daily. Celery stalks contain a large amount of tryptophan, which is an essential substance that enters the human body only with plant foods and can affect the performance of the nervous system.
Next on the list of foods that can prevent stress is garlic. The substances contained in garlic normalize blood circulation and blood sugar levels. Garlic is rightfully considered one of the best natural antioxidants.
Various types of cabbage (Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, white cabbage, kohlrabi) are also recommended for consumption by those people who suffer from unstable nervous system function and are often exposed to stressful situations. Vegetables contain sulfur enzymes that prevent the growth and development of cancer cells. According to some data, eating vegetable salads with a lot of cabbage can reduce the likelihood of developing depression.
Therapists consider licorice and products containing this plant to be a good remedy for relieving fatigue and chronic stress. The roots of the plant are widely used both in cooking and for medicinal purposes. In addition to the fact that licorice components can help in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases, doctors are sure that the possible effect of licorice on blood sugar levels has a positive effect on human productivity and performance.
Red fish with a high content of healthy fats and omega-3 acids promotes stress resistance and increases reaction speed.
Among drinks and desserts, the undisputed leaders are calming herbal tea made from chamomile and St. John's wort and, of course, dark chocolate. It's hard to believe, but just 40 grams of chocolate for breakfast can ensure a good mood throughout the day. Cocoa beans promote the production of endorphins and provide the brain with the necessary amount of energy.
Experts from the USA are confident that a nutritional system developed to combat stress can be used as a preventative measure.
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