Stress can become increasingly difficult to manage over time, and there are plenty of ways you can end up feeling more stressed than you’d like. Fortunately, there are plenty of foods that can help relieve stress as well—more so than many people realize. In fact, some of these 10 foods may even surprise you! So, if you’re looking to cut down on your stress levels and improve your overall mental health, look no further than this list of top 10 foods to help relieve stress.




1) Berries

Berries are one of the best foods you can eat to help relieve stress. They're packed with antioxidants and vitamins that can help improve your mood and keep your body healthy. Eat them fresh, frozen, or in a smoothie. The only downside is they can be expensive! If you don't have any nearby, substitute some other berries. Bananas: Bananas provide energy, essential nutrients like potassium and magnesium, and fiber. Eating bananas helps alleviate anxiety symptoms by balancing blood sugar levels and reducing inflammation which reduces pain associated with depression.


2) Tomatoes

Tomatoes are not only a delicious addition to many dishes, but they also offer some stress-relieving benefits. Lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes, can help lower blood pressure and protect against heart disease. Tomatoes are also a good source of vitamins C and E, which can help reduce stress levels. Additionally, eating foods rich in lycopene may lead to a higher level of satisfaction with life. Potatoes: Potatoes are another tasty food that can offer you relief from your day-to-day stresses. A single baked potato contains approximately 160 milligrams of potassium per serving, the mineral that’s been shown to combat stress by lowering blood pressure and reducing tension. The carbohydrates in potatoes also have been shown to have the same effect on stress as well as help promote sound sleep patterns - both essential for relieving everyday anxiety.


3) Yogurt

Yogurt is one of the best foods you can eat to help relieve stress. The probiotics in yogurt help keep your gut healthy, and a healthy gut has been linked to lower levels of stress and anxiety. Plus, yogurt is a good source of calcium, which can help reduce stress-related symptoms like muscle tension and headaches. Dairy products are also rich in B vitamins, which have been shown to decrease feelings of depression and anxiety. Try kefir or other fermented dairy products if you're lactose intolerant. 

In addition to dairy, dark chocolate is an excellent way to beat the blues because it contains mood-boosting ingredients such as magnesium and phenylethylamine (PEA). Dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa is best for maximum health benefits. 

Another food that can help make you feel more relaxed is avocados - not only do they contain folate, which helps produce serotonin (the chemical that promotes relaxation), but they're also high in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, making them a great option for those who want something savory or crave sweets without feeling guilty about indulging.


4) Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are one of the best foods you can eat to help relieve stress. They're packed with magnesium, a mineral that's essential for relaxation. pumpkin seeds are also a good source of tryptophan, an amino acid that's converted into serotonin in the brain- a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood. Snacking on a handful of pumpkin seeds a day can help keep stress levels in check. Add them to your morning yogurt or oatmeal and sprinkle them over salad greens for lunch or dinner.


5) Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are one of the best foods you can eat to help relieve stress. They are high in magnesium, which has been shown to help reduce stress levels. In addition, leafy greens are a good source of vitamins A and C, both of which are important for maintaining a healthy immune system. When you're feeling stressed, try incorporating some leafy greens into your diet. You might want to make yourself a nice spinach salad with strawberries or watermelon slices. Or maybe just snack on some celery sticks dipped in natural peanut butter. You'll be glad you did!


6) Salmon

Wild-caught salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to lower blood pressure and heart rate, helping to reduce stress levels. Salmon is also a good source of protein, which can help boost energy levels and reduce fatigue. If you're feeling stressed, try incorporating salmon into your diet. It's rich in omega-3s, so it's great for reducing stress. It's also high in protein, so it'll give you an energy boost and make you feel less tired too!


7) Walnuts

If you’re looking for a quick snack that can help relieve stress, reach for a handful of walnuts. Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to improve mood and cognitive function. Additionally, the magnesium in walnuts can help to relax muscles and reduce anxiety. And finally, just one ounce of walnuts contains about four grams of protein, so they're an excellent pick if you're trying to cut back on carbs while still feeling full.


8) Cherries

Did you know that cherries are not only delicious, but they can also help relieve stress? That's right - these little red fruits are packed with antioxidants and nutrients that can help your body cope with stress. The specific type of antioxidant found in the fruit is anthocyanin which has been shown to reduce levels of cortisol and inflammation markers in the blood which decreases feelings of stress.


9) Bananas

Bananas are rich in potassium, which can help regulate blood pressure. They're also a good source of vitamin B6, which plays a role in the production of serotonin, the body's natural mood-booster. What's more, bananas contain tryptophan, an amino acid that's converted into serotonin. So eating a banana may help boost your mood and reduce stress. You should eat one as soon as you feel stressed or anxious.


10) Tea

There's a reason why tea is one of the most popular beverages in the world – it's not just because it's delicious. Tea has also been shown to have stress-relieving properties, thanks to its high levels of antioxidants. Drinking a cup of tea can help you relax and de-stress, both mentally and physically. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends drinking chamomile or green tea. Studies have found that people who drink three cups of either type every day had less anxiety and depression than those who didn't drink any at all.