Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional. The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only and has a lot of my own opinions. It should not be considered medical advice. Before starting any new health, wellness, or exercise program, or making any changes to your current routine, please consult with a physician or qualified healthcare provider to ensure it is appropriate for your individual circumstances.
In our wild and busy world, finding ways to stay calm and relaxed is essential. While meditation, exercise, and a good night’s sleep are GREAT ways to manage stress, and you know I’m all about more peace, did you know that what you eat can also have a significant impact on your mood and stress levels?! Blow your mind! (well…probably not, but I’m trying to get you pumped about it!) There are a ton of foods and spices known for their calming properties, but since long lists are overwhelming to me, here is a Top 5 list of them. Simple, chill, ADHD friendly. May they help you feel more relaxed and at ease.
1. Chamomile Tea
No surprise here. Chamomile tea is one of the most common calming beverages around. This soothing herbal tea has been used for centuries to promote relaxation and improve sleep. You can also try chamomile essential oils. Chamomile contains antioxidants like apigenin, which binds to certain receptors in your brain that help decrease anxiety and initiate sleep. What?! I know. It also has some anti inflammatory properties that have helped me soothe my stomach when it was sore. It is in a Gas Relief tea I like as well. We could probably all use some gas relief from time to time. Know what I mean?
Sipping on a warm cup of chamomile tea before bedtime can help you unwind after a long day and prepare your body for a restful night’s sleep. Whether you’re curled up with a good book or just winding down, chamomile tea is a great way to relax and quiet your mind. I like to get the organic kind and my favorite brand of tea is currently Yogi Teas, but test a variety and see which one is your jam.
2. Dark Chocolate
Good news for chocolate lovers: dark chocolate can actually help reduce stress! Cue the music and initiate dance sequence. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which are compounds that have been shown to improve mood and lower stress levels. It also contains magnesium, a mineral that helps relax muscles and reduce anxiety. It now makes a lot of sense why I crave chocolate when I get stressed out.
When you’re feeling stressed, a small piece of high-quality dark chocolate can be a delightful and calming treat. Notice that I said small, which is obviously subjective, but if I eat the whole bar, my stomach hurts and I go from feeling chill to gross. So, do your best to keep it to a smallish portion. Be sure to choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content to get the most benefits.
My Mom can’t eat it too close to bedtime because it sometimes keeps her awake. It does contain small amounts of caffeine. However, I eat it after dinner and could pass out quickly after eating it, but that could just be because I have a toddler. Tough to say. So, this would be a great peaceful treat to maybe keep in your desk at work if anyone or anything there tends to trigger a stress response (I’m looking at you, wifi!) or for when any other daytime stressors creep up. Up to you. Not only is it delicious, so that alone is a mood booster, but the flavonoids can help you feel more relaxed and content.
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Hello Fresh: Taking the Stress Out of Healthy Dinners
Planning and preparing healthy dinners every day can be a major source of stress. That’s where Hello Fresh comes in. Hello Fresh is a meal kit delivery service that takes the hassle out of meal planning and grocery shopping. Hello Fresh delivers all the pre-portioned ingredients right to your doorstep, along with easy-to-follow recipe cards. Each week, you can choose from a variety of delicious and nutritious recipes that suit your taste and dietary preferences.
The recipes are designed to be simple and quick, so you can have a healthy dinner on the table in no time. Using Hello Fresh not only saves you time and effort but also encourages you to try new dishes and incorporate a variety of calming foods and spices into your diet. With options for everyone, from vegetarians to meat lovers, Hello Fresh makes it easy to enjoy healthy and stress-free dinners.
3. Turmeric
Turmeric, the vibrant yellow spice commonly used in Indian cuisine, is known for its powerful anti-inflammatory properties. But did you know that it can also help reduce anxiety and stress? Well you do now! Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound that has been shown to have mood-boosting effects.
Adding turmeric to your diet is easy and delicious. You can sprinkle it on roasted vegetables, add it to soups and stews, or even blend it into smoothies. For a soothing and calming drink, try making a golden milk latte with turmeric, warm milk (or a dairy-free alternative. I love almond milk), honey, and a pinch of black pepper to enhance absorption. This comforting beverage is perfect for winding down at night.
4. Berries
Berries, such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries, are not only delicious but also packed with antioxidants and vitamins that can help reduce stress. These little powerhouses are rich in vitamin C, which has been shown to lower cortisol (the stress hormone) levels in the body. I’ve been trying to stick to the routine of making smoothies in the morning, and I put a frozen berry mix into mine. The burst of flavor from the fruit makes me delighted to drink them.
Berries make a perfect snack on their own, or you can add them to yogurt, oatmeal, or salads for a burst of flavor and nutrition. Their natural sweetness can also satisfy sugar cravings while also providing a calming effect. When I want something sweet, I try to reach for fruit when I can. My toddler loves berries, and I add them to her healthy pancakes to make them more fun and jazzed up. Frozen berries also help with teething and makes my daughter think she is eating a popsicle. Parent win!
5. Oats
Starting your day with a bowl of oats can set a calm and steady tone for the day ahead. Oats are a complex carbohydrate that helps increase the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that promotes feelings of well-being and relaxation. They also help stabilize blood sugar levels, which can prevent mood swings and irritability.
Oats are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a ton of ways. Whether you prefer a warm bowl of oatmeal, oat-based smoothies, or overnight oats incorporating this calming food into your breakfast routine can help you start the day on the right foot. Add some berries for an extra calming boost. They can also be used as a flour alternative for pancakes. But oats are not just for breakfast. I’m a big fan of oatmeal cookies personally, and I love to have one (or probably more…don’t judge me!) after dinner. It feels like a healthier dessert option than some I could be choosing, so I tell myself it’s okay.
To Summarize (in case you missed any of it)
Incorporating calming foods and spices into your diet is another way to help manage stress and promote relaxation that is both delicious and effective. From the soothing effects of chamomile tea to the mood-boosting benefits of dark chocolate, these foods could make a difference in how you feel. Continuing to be mindful as you eat, and grateful for the foods you are consuming can also bring you back into the present moment and elevate your dining experience.
And if you’re looking to make healthy eating even more convenient and stress-free, consider giving Hello Fresh a try. With their meal kit delivery service, you can enjoy nutritious and delicious meals without the hassle of meal planning and grocery shopping.
Remember, taking care of your mind and body is essential for managing stress and living a balanced life. So, treat yourself to some calming foods, try out new recipes, and enjoy the benefits of a more relaxed you. Happy peaceful eating!
