Apples. If you haven't had an apple a day in awhile, it might be a good time to start. The high levels of antioxidants may help lessen the symptoms of anxiety (anxiety is thought to be correlated with a lowered total antioxidant state).
Blueberries
When we're anxious and stressed, our bodies crave vitamin C to help repair and protect our cells, and blueberries are packed full of it. Small but mighty, blueberries are bursting with antioxidants and vitamin C that have been shown to provide anxiety relief.
#1 Apples Support Brain Health
Even apple juice was correlated to the production of certain neurotransmitters that may lead to improved memory. Some studies even showed how daily consumption of apples can help decrease the risk of Alzheimer's and dementia.
Scientific studies found that antioxidants may help reduce anxiety. Apples contain some carbohydrates which help in the creation of serotonin (the happiness hormone). A breakfast with Ambrosia apples and oatmeal is a good source of serotonin-boosting carbohydrates.
Apples. Apples are a great source of pectin, a soluble fiber found in fruit and vegetables. Studies have found that consuming high amounts of fiber is linked to a lower risk of depression symptoms. Pectin may have additional benefits when it comes to gut bacteria.
The researchers narrowed down the top 10 raw fruits and vegetables they found to be associated with better mental health and fewer symptoms of depression. These include carrots, dark leafy greens such as spinach, lettuce, cucumber, apples, bananas, grapefruit, other citrus fruits, fresh berries, and kiwifruit.
Many of the health benefits are due to the fact that apples are a rich source of phytochemicals, including quercetin, catechin, phloridzin and chlorogenic acid, all of which are strong antioxidants. These antioxidants help to break down and neutralize harmful free radical compounds within our body.
Cherries. Cherries contain antioxidants like quercetin, which can help promote feelings of calmness. Eating more fruits and veggies in general has also been linked to decreased symptoms of anxiety and depression and increased happiness levels.
Blueberries. Studies show that blueberries boost “concentration and memory” for up to five hours because “the antioxidants in blueberries stimulate the flow of blood and oxygen to [your] brain – and keep the mind fresh”.
The best stress-relieving drinks include ginger, chamomile tea, valerian, black tea, coconut water, milk, green tea, coffee, lemon balm tea, water, and vegetable and fruit juice. Aromatherapy is another self-soothing practice shown to have benefits for mental health. You can read more about it here.
The B-vitamins in bananas, like folate and vitamin B6, are key to the production of serotonin, which can help improve your mood and reduce anxiety. For an extra stress-busting boost, top bananas with almond, peanut, or cashew butter.
Medical research has linked magnesium to reduced anxiety. Magnesium helps you to relax by stimulating the production of melatonin and serotonin which boost your mood and help you sleep. Magnesium also reduces the production of cytokines and cortisol, which lead to increased inflammation and stress.
Besides the homey warmth of this true comfort food, milk has loads of B vitamins that reduce anxiety and improve mood. For instance, vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) raises serotonin levels to perk you up.
The best time to eat apples is in the morning. Because the pectin present in apples is very beneficial for the intestines. Pectin effectively supports intestinal function and prevents constipation. You can eat apples when feeling a little hungry, it can be a nutritious snack and help regulate blood sugar.
Foods that may boost serotonin levels include turkey, chicken, milk, canned tuna, peanuts, oats, bananas, and apples. Serotonin is important for your mental health and sense of well-being, and it's also important for proper gut function.
Among the top plant antidepressant foods are watercress, spinach, lettuces, fresh herbs, peppers, pumpkin, cauliflower, lemon and strawberry. Antidepressant animal foods include oysters, clams, mussels, crab, tuna, lobster, salmon, herring and snapper.
Foods (and drinks) that are stress- and anxiety-provoking
Caffeine. Sugary drinks and foods. Processed foods, such as chips, cookies, frozen foods and ready-made meals. Foods high in trans fats and excessive saturated fats, such as fried foods, red meat, full-fat dairy, butter and baked goods.
It finds that those with a lower antioxidant state are more susceptible to anxiety. One of the best ways to combat oxidative stress and boost antioxidants in the body is by eating foods rich in antioxidants. Ambrosia apples (especially raw) are a good source of antioxidants.