Have you ever considered the phrase “food for thought”? Think about that in depth for just a minute. It has a lot stronger root than a lot of phrases we throw around in that our bodies need a lot of the nutrients that we are supposed to get from food in order for our brains to function properly.
CELLS NEED TO EAT, TOO!
We don’t have to be scientist to realize how our bodies work at the most basic level. We need energy from food.
Food gets broken down into little bits of stuff, keeping it as simple as possible, down to ATP at a cellular level. That feeds our cells. What we eat determines how efficiently our bodies can complete this process and how well this ATP converts our food into energy.
OUR SECOND BRAIN
Health and nutrition experts have started referring to the gut as our second brain. Food is that important to our every day function. According to published reports from PSYCOM, when essential nutrients aren’t available in enough supply, there is a direct effect on the body’s ability to produce neurotransmitters and brain chemistry that will increase or decrease anxiety related behaviors.
SUGGESTED FOODS TO REDUCE YOUR ANXIETY
Some foods that are suggested to keep a calmer life are Brazil nuts and almonds, as they provide your body with Potassium and Magnesium. Fatty fish high in Omega 3, such as salmon, mackerel, trout or herring are good for your body. Yogurt helps with the cultures in your gut. Asparagus, avocado, blueberries, turkey… I could list so many, but that gets boring!
The point is that the more fresh, unprocessed foods that you eat, the better off you and your brain will be. Try to avoid deep-fried foods, they lose most of their nutritional values in the process as well as gain a ton of fat!
MAINTAINING A STABLE BLOOD SUGAR
Finding a diet that works for you is the key. There is nothing that says you can’t enjoy some of your favorites now and then, however trying to keep a balance is what is important.
Healthy foods provide complex carbohydrates that make your body produce energy that last longer. This reduces the blood sugar roller coaster that can lead to sluggish feelings and cravings. It also creates a more stable resting brain frequency pattern, which will reduce your anxiety.
EATING YOUR WAY CALM
It’s not out of the question and it’s not a crazy concept. It’s not even that hard. Eating lean meats and fish three times a week instead of going through the drive-through of a fast food restaurant can save you money as well as peace of mind.
Snacking on nuts instead of chips still gives a satisfying crunch. Berries and other fruits can still satisfy that sweet craving. Find some recipes that appeal to you and give it a try. You have literally nothing to lose except for anxiety that gets in your way of a happier life, and maybe a few unwanted pounds!
Wow, I never considered diet as having an affect on brain function and anxiety. I guess it makes sense from a biochemical and hormonal balance stand point, but just not something you normally consider when the subject of anxiety comes up. The pharmacutical industry certainly won’t talk about it.
I would be interested to see more information on diet and its affects on mood and behavior. What about combinations of foods? Do certain combinations of foods increase anxiety? Very interesting information.
Thank you for creating such an informative post, I always thought that by meditating or through breathing techniques, you can calm down your anxiety. To be honest I never knew having a diet or food can play a role in anxiety.
I find it great that you listed food that helps reduce anxiety, salmon is my personal favorite and if I were to be able to eat it every day then I would because it’s such a good dish, especially with mashed potatoes and asparagus.
I’m definitely bookmarking this site because you give out more information on food and also what to do in calming your mind in anxiety this would be great for my sister!
Thank you for your interest, Caleb. I will be adding more content soon, It is my goal to help as many people as is possible!