5 plant-based foods to ease anxiety
Mental health is a huge component of our overall wellbeing and something that we all need to be talking more about. It’s just as important as making sure that we are keeping our physical health in tip-top shape. And, while healthy dietary choices are key for a healthy body, foods also play a part in a healthy mind as well.
We’re sharing our top five favorite plant-based foods that may help ease anxiety and feelings of stress. Try swapping out sugary and refined foods that may be making you feel on edge and try these nutrient-dense options instead.
5 Plant-Based Foods For Anxiety
#1 Almonds
Commonly enjoyed as a quick grab and go plant-based snack, almonds are rich in magnesium, an important mineral for supporting anxiety-related symptoms. Magnesium is also thought to help support sleep, and making sure that you are getting a solid night’s rest is a huge part of easing stress and anxiety.
#2 Blueberries
Blueberries are like nature’s candy. They are super sweet and make an easy and delicious addition to your plant-based diet. They also happen to be a great source of vitamin C, which is a vitamin we need to protect as well as repair our cells. This is extremely important, especially when we are under stress.
And, not only that but studies have shown that having low levels of antioxidants has been linked to anxiety. The good news is that blueberries also pack in a hefty dose of antioxidants, making them a great addition to a plant-based diet targeted as easing symptoms of anxiety.
#3 Cashews
Cashews are another staple in many plant-based diets, and they may also provide some impressive anti-anxiety benefits. These nuts are a great source of zinc, another mineral shown to help lower symptoms of anxiety.
So, try adding them to your salads, or if you’re feeling fancy, blend some up with some nutritional yeast and garlic powder to make a dairy-free cashew “parmesan” cheese.
#4 Omega-3 Rich Foods
Nuts and seeds like walnuts, chia, flax, and hemp seeds are all great sources of plant-based omega-3 fatty acids. These fats are commonly known for easing symptoms of depression, and studies have now shown that they may also help support those with anxiety.
#5 Asparagus
This nutrient-dense veggie is a great source of folate, an important nutrient for mood and brain support. Research has also shown this veggie to hold some impressive anti-anxiety benefits, so consider making it a more regular part of your diet.
Plant-Based Eating Does More Than Just Support Physical Health
While we know that plant-based eating holds numerous benefits for our physical well being, studies have shown some great results when it comes to adding certain plant-based foods to your diet for boosting mental health as well.
So, whether you are trying to ease symptoms of anxiety, or want to boost your diet with foods to help give your body a boost when dealing with increased stress, consider these plant-based options. They may help support a better sense of balance, both physically and mentally.
