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7 anti-inflammatory foods for anxiety

By Carolyn Williams, Ph.D., R.D., EatingWell.com on

Published in Health & Fitness

Gut health influences the ability of inflammation to develop, which means it also influences risk for mental health issues like anxiety. Strengthening the gut’s microbe barrier by eating certain “good” bacterial strains can help prevent inflammatory compounds from entering the body, and may decrease anxiety. While research is limited, two kinds of foods that do appear to help anxiety are fermented foods (such as sauerkraut and kimchi) and dairy products (such as yogurt) that contain Lactobacillus rhamnosus.

5. Blueberries

Eating antioxidant-rich foods is vital, and blueberries are packed with polyphenolic compounds that act as antioxidants to protect brain cells from free radicals. These compounds also ease neuroinflammation and promote proper brain functioning, particularly during stressful periods.

6. Spinach

According to a recent study, leafy greens like spinach are rich in nutrients specifically associated with mental health. This makes them a top choice to help prevent or ease conditions like anxiety and depression. Spinach and other leafy greens provide minerals like folate and magnesium, and include vitamin C and beta carotene, which ease current inflammation.

 

7. Lean animal proteins

Inadequate intake of vitamins B6 and B12 can contribute to mental health issues like anxiety because they are needed to make neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine (which control mood and cognition). Getting enough B6 and B12 can be difficult, but lean animal proteins like beef, pork and chicken are a good source of both.

(EatingWell is a magazine and website devoted to healthy eating as a way of life. Online at www.eatingwell.com.)


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