Foods That Reduce Stress

Did you know that you can lessen your stress by eating? It's true. However, not by eating pizza or ice cream. The next time you feel under the gun, try one of these choices from MSN's food website Delish.com:

• Oranges. A German study that was published in the Journal of Psychopharmacology found that vitamin C helps reduce stress, and returns your blood pressure and cortisol levels back to normal AFTER a stressful situation. Vitamin C also boosts your immune system, and oranges are chock full of it.
• Sweet potatoes. They satisfy the cravings you get for sweets and carbs when you're under a lot of stress, but they're healthy. Sweet potatoes are loaded with beta-carotene, which protects against cancer and heart disease, and the fiber helps your body process carbohydrates in a slow and steady way.
• Dried apricots. They're rich in magnesium, which is a powerful stress-buster and a natural muscle relaxant.
• Nuts. Almonds are packed with B and E vitamins which boost your immune system, and walnuts and pistachios are both good choices to help lower your blood pressure.
• Turkey. It contains an amino acid called L-tryptophan which triggers the release of the feel-good brain chemical serotonin. So, you'll feel calm and relaxed - maybe even tired - after you eat it.
• Eat spinach and other greens. One cup of spinach gives you 40 percent of your daily supply of magnesium. A magnesium deficiency can cause headaches and fatigue. Broccoli, kale, and other dark green veggies are packed with vitamins that replenish our bodies when we're stressed.
• Salmon. It's one of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acids that protect against heart disease. A study published in Diabetes & Metabolism found that the omega-3s also lower stress hormones.
  
  The truth is - there are all kinds of delicious foods that'll help you beat stress. So, make sure to keep your refrigerator and pantry stocked with your favorites.