There is an intricate connection between food and your mood. The relationship is somewhat bi-directional. Food indeed makes your body healthy, but making the right choice of foods can have an impact on your mental health too! So, are you a caregiver and experiencing caregiver stress? If yes, incorporating the top five superfoods in your diet might help you. Have a look.
Herbal Tea
Drinking a warm cup of tea induces a feeling of calmness which helps in reducing stress levels. It is not that herbal tea is the most effective stress-buster, but you can add herbs like lavender or chamomile to have a soothing effect.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate which has a high cocoa content can be your best buddy when you are feeling stressed. According to the findings of a 2014 controlled clinical study, researchers have concluded that dark chocolate blunted the response of our body to the stress signals sent by our brain. Also, these are high in antioxidants and increase the flow of blood. Since these are also high in calories, it is best to have them moderately.
Citrus Fruits
Citrus fruits are not only brightly colored but also extremely rich in vitamins. So, try to have some oranges, grapefruits, mandarins, or lemons in your daily diet. Many studies have shown that citrus fruits can reduce stress levels. As per a Japanese study, people who consume these fruits in high amounts have a lower possibility of having stroke and heart diseases. Remember, stress is a common trigger for stroke and heart diseases.
Yogurt
Rich in calcium, probiotics, and protein, yogurt is eaten widely across the world. Now as per the researchers at the School of Medicine at UCLA (University of California Los Angeles), yogurt, if taken twice a day daily, can effectively lower the levels of activity of the human brain that are associated with emotion and pain. So, whether you believe this study or not, having a cup of yogurt tossed with a handful of blueberries or raspberries will prove helpful in getting relieved from the caregiver stress.
Nuts
Eating nuts have always proved beneficial for anyone, but it is most important for you as a caregiver. Not only these are apt for your cardiovascular health and promote healthy aging, but they also reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Your body experiences oxidative stress when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants. So, whenever you feel hunger pangs between your meals, consume a handful of nuts. Try to have almonds, pistachios, walnuts, or peanuts in small proportions. You can also toss them into your cereal bowl for a nutritious and fulfilling breakfast!
So, make sure to include these superfoods in your daily diet. Also, practice meditation and take short breaks because these are just fantastic for your emotional well-being!