Every day, we're bombarded with news from all over the world, from political conflicts and natural disasters to mind-boggling economic issues. While it's important to stay informed, constantly reading the news can leave us feeling anxious, tired, and even stressed. But did you know? There's a simple way to help calm the mind: through food.
Why Does Reading the News Make Us Anxious?
Stress from reading the news is no small matter. The body can respond with anxiety, insomnia, and even mood swings. But don't worry, there's a simple way to help calm the mind: through food. Some foods have a natural calming effect and can be a constant companion when you're feeling overwhelmed.
Some foods have a calming effect on the body and mind. Let's explore some foods that can be your constant companions when you're overwhelmed by anxious news.
Dark Chocolate: The Little One That Makes You Happy
Dark chocolate isn't just delicious, it can also improve your mood. The flavonoids and magnesium in dark chocolate help reduce stress hormones and stimulate the production of serotonin, the happy hormone.
Consumption tips: Choose dark chocolate with a minimum cocoa content of 70%. Eat in moderation, about 1-2 small squares per day.
Chamomile Tea: A Natural Calming Drink
Chamomile is known as an herbal tea with a calming effect. The antioxidants and compound apigenin in chamomile help reduce anxiety and promote restful sleep.
Consumption tips: Drink warm chamomile tea before bed or when feeling restless. Add a little honey for a milder taste.
Avocado: Healthy Fat for a Calm Mind
Avocados are rich in healthy fats, especially omega-3s, and B vitamins, which are essential for brain function and mood regulation. They also help stabilize blood sugar, which directly impacts mood.
Consumption tips: Can be made into a smoothie, bread topping, or eaten directly with a little salt and lemon juice.
Yogurt: Good for the Stomach, Good for the Mind
Gut health is closely linked to mental health. Yogurt contains probiotics, which help maintain the balance of good bacteria in the gut, which influences hormone and neurotransmitter production.
Consumption tips: Choose yogurt without added sugar. Add fresh fruit or nuts for a more interesting flavor and texture.
Almonds: An Anti-Anxiety Snack
Almonds are rich in magnesium, vitamin E, and fiber. Magnesium is known as a mineral that helps relieve stress and calm the nervous system.
Consumption tips: Eat a handful of almonds as an afternoon snack. You can also add them to oatmeal or salads.
Bananas: A Source of Energy and Mood Booster
Bananas contain vitamin B6, which helps the body produce serotonin. Furthermore, their complex carbohydrate content provides energy without drastically increasing blood sugar.
Consumption tips: Eat bananas for breakfast or as a snack before reading the morning news. You can also make a smoothie with yogurt and honey.
Fatty Fish: Nutrition for the Brain and Emotions
Fish like salmon, sardines, and tuna contain omega-3 fatty acids, which are excellent for brain health and emotional regulation. Regular consumption can help reduce symptoms of mild depression and anxiety.
Consumption tips: Include fatty fish in your dinner menu 2-3 times a week. It can be grilled, steamed, or added to a salad.
Oatmeal: A Comforting Breakfast
Oatmeal contains complex carbohydrates that help release serotonin slowly, which helps stabilize your mood and relax your body.
Consumption tips: Serve warm oatmeal topped with fresh fruit, honey, and a little cinnamon for a soothing taste.
Conclusion
Food isn't the ultimate solution to news-related stress, but it can be a simple way to care for yourself. What matters is mindfully consuming it—enjoying every flavor, texture, and benefit.
So, the next time you feel overwhelmed by the news, try taking a break. Brew some warm tea, enjoy a piece of chocolate, or make an avocado smoothie. Your body and mind deserve some rest.
