Foods And Drinks To Avoid
Anxiety is a common mental health disorder that can be triggered by many different things. diet can be one of those triggers. Some foods and drinks contain nutrients that can increase anxiety, while others can help to decrease it.
Caffeine
Caffeine is a stimulant, and therefore can have an effect on your anxiety levels. It is found in coffee, tea, chocolate, certain sodas and energy drinks. While it may give you a temporary energy boost, it can also lead to increased anxiety and restlessness. If you are struggling with anxiety, it is best to avoid caffeine altogether.
Alcohol
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant, and therefore can have an overall calming effect on the body. However, it can also exacerbate anxiety and may even lead to panic attacks in some people. If you suffer from anxiety, it’s best to avoid alcohol or at least drink in moderation.
Processed foods
Although they may be convenient, processed foods are generally bad for your anxiety levels. This is because they often contain high levels of sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats, which can all contribute to feeling anxious. Processed foods can also contain additives and preservatives that can have a negative effect on your mood.
Some examples of processed foods to avoid include:
- ready-meals
- junk food
- processed meats
- energy drinks
- sugary drinks
- artificial sweeteners
Sugar
You might think that sugar would be a good way to boost your energy and mood when you’re feeling anxious, but it can actually have the opposite effect. Sugar can cause your blood sugar levels to spike and then crash, leaving you feeling fatigued and irritable. In addition, sugar can cause cravings for more sugary foods, which can lead to weight gain and further anxiety about your body image. If you’re struggling with anxiety, it’s best to avoid sugary foods and drinks altogether.
Foods And Drinks To Consume
When you’re anxious, the last thing you want to do is make it worse. But sometimes, in the moment, you don’t realize that’s what you’re doing. If you’re not careful, the foods and drinks you consume can actually make your anxiety worse.
Omega-3 Rich Foods
While there is no one-size-fits-all diet for anxiety, there are certain foods that can help to alleviate symptoms. One of the best things you can do for your body is to make sure you’re getting enough omega-3 fatty acids. These essential nutrients are not only good for your heart and brain, but they also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce anxiety.
Some of the best sources of omega-3s include fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts. If you don’t eat fish or other animal products, you can also get omega-3s from supplements. Just be sure to talk to your doctor before taking any supplements, as they can interact with other medications you may be taking.
Probiotic Foods
Probiotic foods are living foods that contain beneficial bacteria. These bacteria are known as probiotics. Probiotics are important for gut health and have been linked to a variety of health benefits.
The human gut is home to trillions of bacteria. In fact, there are more bacteria in the gut than there are cells in the body. The majority of these bacteria are harmless, and some are even beneficial. Probiotics are live microorganisms that can provide health benefits when consumed.
There is a growing body of evidence to suggest that probiotic foods can help reduce anxiety and improve mood. Probiotic foods may also help to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Some probiotic-rich foods include yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, miso soup, and kefir. Probiotic supplements are also available and may be a good option for people who do not eat probiotic-rich foods regularly.
Herbal Teas
While some might find that herbal teas help to soothe their anxiety, there are a few varieties that can actually make your symptoms worse. Chamomile, for example, is a popular choice for those looking to wind down before bedtime but it can actually have the opposite effect on some people. If you find yourself feeling more anxious after drinking chamomile tea, it might be best to avoid it altogether. Other teas to steer clear of if you’re struggling with anxiety include green tea and yerba mate. Both of these beverages contain caffeine, which can aggravate anxiety symptoms.
Water
Water is essential for our bodies to function properly, but it’s especially important when you’re feeling anxious. That’s because anxiety can cause your body to release stress hormones that make you feel agitated and can increase your heart rate. Drinking water can help to flush these out of your system and help you to feel more relaxed.
If you are in crisis or think you may have an emergency, call your doctor, go to the emergency room, or call 911 immediately. If you’re having suicidal thoughts, call 1-800-273-TALK (8255) to talk to a trained counselor.
