Joanna James
Food cravings brought on by stress and increased cortisol levels induce binging and only offer temporary relief with bad after-effects. Here's a list of food which offers long term calming benefits.
Asparagus is high in Folate, which helps you to stay calm, despite making your urine smell odd. You can steam the slender stalks and add it to salads, while broiled until crisp, they taste excellent. There are plenty of asparagus recipes online which are delicious options to a less-stressed out lifestyle; besides, these are all ingredients you can easily pick-up the next time you visit Keells Super.
Avocado and its creamy goodness are perfect for de-stressing. They are high in glutathione, which is a substance that prevents the absorption of fats in your intestines, known to cause 'oxidative damage'. In addition to this special feature, avocados contain vitamin E, lutein, beta-carotene and loads of folate, while one-quarter of an avocado is rich in vitamin B. One of the more popular fruits in Sri Lanka, avocado is also high in fat, and as such, eating the fruit in moderation is advised.
Blueberries are very rich in antioxidants and are known for their many health benefits which include a high cognitive level. Besides, these properties available in blackberries, other berries such as, strawberries, blackberries and raspberries are very high in vitamin C, which as everyone knows is a great stress buster.
Nuts are just about everyone's favourite snack. They are salty too, which is ideal to stave off any other cravings you may have. A perfect combination of protein and fat, nuts help in weight loss programmes, although portion sizes must be watched, as they are high in calories. Cashews offer your daily RDA of zinc, a lack of which is known to cause anxiety and depression; an ounce of cashew offers 11 percentage of your daily zinc requirement, a supplement which is essential to be taken daily as our bodies are incapable of storing the mineral. You can, of course, substitute cashews for other nuts, and even chop and add them to dishes such as chicken stir-fry.
Chamomile is loved for its soothing properties, especially at bedtime. And there is plenty of evidence to prove that chamomile has a calming effect. Chamomile also promotes sleep and is perfect to relax just before bedtime. Pour yourself a hot cup of the brew, find a quiet nook and enjoy sipping your tea, just before curling up in your bed.
Chocolates are a heart-healthy snack, which just about everyone loves. Known for their antioxidant qualities, chocolates are an excellent mood enhancer. Dark chocolate, especially, is known for its ability to lower blood pressure; it is high in polyphenols and flavonols which are two very important varieties of antioxidants. So, go ahead and indulge, enjoy that piece of chocolate, but do remember that moderation is key.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
