Introduction:
Generalized anxiety disorder is a fairly common spectrum of symptoms affecting millions of people the world over and the common symptoms include:
- fear
- tension
- excessive worry about everyday events and problems
- irritability
- difficulty concentrating
- issues with their personal social and work relationships
- heart palpitations, elevated heart rate
- muscle tension
- chest tightness
Some foods that relieve anxiety:
Brazil nuts:
Brazil nuts are rich in selenium and may relieve anxiety by reducing inflammation in the body and thus improve symptoms of anxiety by improving the mood of the patient.
Other nuts, animal products, and vegetables, such as mushrooms and soybeans, are an excellent source of selenium.
Fish:
Fatty fish, such as salmon, mackerel, sardines, trout, and herring, are high in omega 3 fatty acids. Omega-3 is a fatty acid that has a strong relationship with cognitive function as well as promoting positive mental health.
Egg yolk is a great source of vitamin D.
Eggs are also an excellent source of protein. It is a complete protein, meaning it contains all the essential amino acids the body needs for growth and development.
Eggs also contain tryptophan, an essential amino acid which helps produce serotonin. Serotonin is a chemical neurotransmitter that helps to regulate mood, sleep, memory, and behavior. Serotonin is also helps to improve brain function and relieve anxiety.
Pumpkin seeds are also a good source of the mineral zinc and minerals. Zinc deficiency may negatively affect mood. Zinc is essential for brain and nerve development and mood elevation.
Dark Chocolate:
Experts have long suspected that dark chocolate might help reduce stress and anxiety.
Dark Chocolate has a high tryptophan content, which the body uses to turn into mood-enhancing neurotransmitters, such as serotonin in the brain.
Turmeric:
Turmeric is a spice commonly used in Indian and South-East Asian cooking. The active ingredient in turmeric is called curcumin. Curcumin helps lower anxiety by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress that often increase in people experiencing mood disorders, such as anxiety and depression.
Chamomile:
Many people around the world use chamomile tea as an herbal remedy because of its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, and relaxant properties. It relaxes the brain and reduces anxiety.
Green tea:
Green tea contains an amino acid called theanine, which is an amino acid that affects mood disorders favorably. Theanine has anti-anxiety and calming effects and may increase the production of serotonin and dopamine.
Conclusion:
A healthful diet should provide all the nutrients needed for healthy brain function.
A healthful diet that contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds, as well as vitamins and minerals might help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.
Reducing foods that are high in added sugar, salt, and fats especially Trans fats may help also help reduce inflammation. Reduce alcohol, sugar, and coffee as these may increase episodes of anxiety and the associated symptoms.