Anti-stress diet: what to eat to cheer up and not get fat

Our state of mind largely depends on hormonal balance and the correct functioning of the nervous system, which is strongly influenced by diet. Various tasty health hazards can quickly cheer you up, but, unfortunately, most often, the feeling of joy and lightness that they give passes just as quickly.

But some foods work differently: They help maintain normal brain function by providing a stable emotional state, reducing stress, and protecting against increased anxiety and depression.

Turmeric

This bright yellow spice has many beneficial properties and positively affects various organs, including the brain. Turmeric can improve cognitive functions (memory, attention, learning ability, etc. ) and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases, as well as improve the production of serotonin and dopamine (“hormones of happiness and good mood”).

Turmeric has a fairly neutral taste and goes well with many foods, often added to sugary drinks.

Fatty fish

Due to their high content of omega-3 fatty acids, certain types of fish, such as salmon, tuna, trout, and mackerel, improve the functioning of the brain and nervous system and help the body cope with stress.

In addition, fish are rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that influences the production of serotonin (the “good mood hormone”) and melatonin ( the “sleep hormone”). To get the most out of fatty fish, experts recommend consuming it at least twice a week.

Brown rice

Brown rice is rich in vitamins B1 and B3 – substances that contribute to the production of serotonin. In addition, regular consumption of this rice lowers the level of homocysteine, an amino acid, an excess of which can lead to the development of depression and damage to nerve cells.

Turkey

Oddly enough, one of the best foods that uplift and maintain a positive attitude is turkey meat. It contains tryptophan, which stimulates the production of serotonin and a large amount of protein, which is excellent for saturating, thereby helping to cope with increased nervousness and irritability.

Before cooking, it is better to marinate the turkey in yogurt or low-fat sour cream with spices so that the meat is not dry.

Cocoa

Cocoa is a delicious antidepressant rich in tryptophan and selenium, which is very important for the normal functioning of the nervous system.

Cocoa also helps reduce stress, improves cognitive function, and protects the brain from serious diseases such as dementia, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, etc. If possible, drink cocoa without sugar or other sweet additives to reduce its calorie content.