7 Superfoods That Can Help Combat Stress

In our fast-paced world, stress is an almost unavoidable part of life. While there are many ways to manage stress, one of the simplest and most natural methods is through the food you eat. There are actually specific foods that can help your body better cope with life. 

Dr. Philip Rabito, MD, is a Mount Sinai-trained endocrinologist practicing on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. He’s a diet and fitness medicine expert who helps patients in Long Island, Brooklyn, and New York City manage stress and health through the power of nutrition.

Eat These Foods to Feel More Calm

What we eat profoundly impacts how we feel physically and mentally. The right diet can make all the difference. Below are seven superfoods that can naturally help reduce stress and promote a calmer lifestyle:

1. Dark Chocolate: Rich in antioxidants and known to boost serotonin levels, dark chocolate is a delicious way to reduce stress. Go for options with at least 70% cocoa for the most benefits.
2. Blueberries: Blueberries help your body fight the oxidative stress that accompanies anxiety and tension. They’re packed with vitamin C and antioxidants and make a great snack or addition to your morning smoothie.
3. Avocados: Avocados are full of healthy fats and B vitamins, essential for healthy nerve and brain function. They also help regulate your mood by balancing blood sugar levels.
4. Chamomile Tea: Chamomile has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for anxiety and insomnia. A cup of chamomile tea before bed can help soothe your mind and body.
5. Almonds: Magnesium plays a big part in managing your body’s stress response, and almonds have a lot of it. Eat a handful of almonds as a midday snack to keep stress at bay.
6. Spinach: Spinach is loaded with magnesium and iron, which help keep energy levels steady and reduce stress-related fatigue. Eat spinach in salads, smoothies, or as a side dish to boost your intake.
7. Salmon: High in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon reduces inflammation and helps stabilize mood swings caused by stress. Incorporating salmon into your weekly meals can have lasting effects on your mental well-being.

While certain foods can fuel our bodies with energy and resilience, others can leave us feeling worse. Highly processed foods, sugary snacks, and excessive caffeine can all increase feelings of anxiety and stress. Focus on eating nutrient-dense, whole foods to improve your ability to handle stress.

Embrace a Healthier, Calmer Lifestyle

Including these superfoods in your daily diet is a natural way to combat stress. For personalized advice on managing your mental health through nutrition, book an appointment with Dr. Rabito in New York City by calling 877-703-3775. He can help you find the right balance in your diet to support a calmer, healthier life.