Stressed? These 12 Foods Can Help You Chill

Feeling overwhelmed? The right foods can actually help your body relax and manage stress better. From magnesium-rich snacks to calming herbal ingredients, these 12 options might be just what you need to take the edge off.

Dark Chocolate

Dark chocolate is rich in magnesium, which helps relax muscles and lower stress levels. It also boosts serotonin, the brain’s feel-good chemical, promoting a calmer mood. Make some homemade dark chocolate with only 3-ingedients. Get the recipe: Homemade Dark Chocolate Bars

Avocado

Avocado is packed with B vitamins and healthy fats, avocados help support brain function and reduce anxiety. Their high potassium content also helps manage blood pressure, contributing to relaxation. Try an avocado tuna salad for lunch! Get the recipe: Avocado Tuna Salad

Almonds

Almonds are high in magnesium, which regulates stress hormones and promotes a sense of calm. They’re also full of healthy fats supporting brain health and mood stability. This warm almond milk is a relaxing beverage. Get the recipe: Warm Almond Milk

Salmon

Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, salmon helps reduce cortisol levels and combat stress. These healthy fats also support overall brain function, improving mood and relaxation. This baked lemon salmon is a quick and healthy meal. Get the recipe: Baked Lemon Salmon

Bananas

Bananas are an excellent potassium and tryptophan source, both promoting muscle relaxation and improving serotonin production. This helps regulate mood and reduce stress. Fluffy banana muffins taste like a treat. Get the recipe: Banana Protein Muffins

Spinach

Spinach is high in magnesium and folate, both of which help balance mood and support the nervous system. It’s an excellent green to include in a diet aimed at reducing stress. Make this spinach salad your next side dish. Get the recipe: Spinach Cranberry Salad

Blueberries

Blueberries are rich in antioxidants, which protect the brain from oxidative stress and improve cognitive function. They also help regulate blood sugar, preventing mood swings and stress. Start your day with one of these almond flour blueberry muffins. Get the recipe: Almond Flour Blueberry Muffins

Turmeric

The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, has powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce anxiety. It also supports brain function and overall mental clarity. Sip on a smooth and rich turmeric latte. Get the recipe: Turmeric Latte

Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are great for sleep because they’re high in magnesium, which helps relax muscles, and contain tryptophan, an amino acid that boosts melatonin production. For a delicious snack, try chewy granola bars with pumpkin seeds. Get the recipe: Chewy Granola Bars

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are full of complex carbohydrates, which increase serotonin levels in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing stress. They’re also high in vitamins A and C, which help manage cortisol levels. A breakfast casserole with sweet potato is great for breakfast meal prepping. Get the recipe: Sweet Potato Egg Casserole

Greek Yogurt

Yogurt contains probiotics that help support gut health, which is directly linked to reduced stress and anxiety. It’s also a good source of calcium, which helps regulate muscle function and relaxation. For a healthy frozen treat, try these frozen yogurt peanut butter cups. Get the recipe: Frozen Peanut Butter Cups

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a complex carb that boosts serotonin production, which promotes relaxation and reduces feelings of stress. Its fiber content also supports stable blood sugar levels, contributing to emotional balance. Chocolate oat bars for the win! Get the recipe: Chocolate Oat Bars