Life is a rollercoaster sometimes, and all those worried feelings can just throw you off. But here's the thing: What you drink and eat can have a lot to do with how calm you are. We spoke to our expert, Dr Nikhil Nayar, Psychiatrist, Sharda Hospital - Noida, who gave us some easy and delicious ways to calm your worries from the inside out. Here is what he shared with us.
Sip Your Way To A Calm Self
1. Warm Herbal Teas
Consider chamomile, peppermint, or lemon balm. They're not only snuggly, but they also have properties that can calm your mind and body. Picture a warm hug in a cup!
2. Plain and Simple Water
When you are thirsty, your body can become stressed, and this can actually worsen anxiety. Have a water bottle close at hand and take sips throughout the day. Easy peasy!
3. Green Tea (in moderation)
This tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that has been associated with a sense of calmness and concentration. Just don't get too carried away on the caffeine, which has the potential to do the opposite.
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Bite-Sized Calming Foods To Consider
1. Dark Chocolate (the healthy kind!)
Yes, you heard it here! Dark chocolate with a high cocoa level (70% or higher) has antioxidants that may help lower stress hormones. Just keep in mind, a little square is all you need to experience the potential benefits.
2. Nuts and Seeds
Almonds, walnuts, and pumpkin seeds – these small dynamos contain magnesium and zinc, minerals that are involved in mood management. Take a small handful as a healthy, soothing snack.
3. Fatty Fish
Salmon, tuna, and mackerel are good choices. They're filled with omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to positively affect brain function and could help alleviate symptoms of anxiety.
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4. Leafy Greens
Spinach, kale, and other leafy greens are rich in folate, a B vitamin crucial to brain function. They're also rich in other healthy nutrients that promote overall health.
5. Fermented Foods
Live and active culture yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut can improve your digestive health. And who knew? There's a great relationship between your gut and your brain! A healthy gut can lead to a quieter mind.
Word of Caution
Similar to how certain foods can make you feel more relaxed, others can fuel anxiety. Dr Nayar recommended paying attention to:
Too Much Caffeine: A small amount of caffeine may energise you, but excessive consumption may result in the jitters and heightened anxiety.
Sugary Drinks and Processed Foods: These are able to spike blood sugar and result in crashing afterwards, leaving one feeling jittery and anxious.
Alcohol: While it might seem relaxing at first, alcohol can disrupt your sleep and worsen anxiety in the long run.
Bottomline
Making small dietary changes can be an easy yet effective way to aid your mental health. By adding these soothing foods and beverages to your daily routine and being aware of what may cause your anxiety, you can take a tasty step toward a calmer you. Just remember, it's not about rigid rules, but about achieving a balance that suits your body and mind.