With everything going on in 2020, it’s easy for there to be heightened stress among everyone. Here are some fruits and vegetables to look out for on your next grocery trip that are known to naturally reduce stress levels:
Avocados – these are high in essential fatty acids, which are great for promoting a healthy nervous system, as well as improving your mood.
Citrus fruits and berries – noted in previous posts, fruits such as lemons, limes, grapefruits, raspberries, strawberries and blueberries are extremely high in Vitamin C, which is known to help fight both oxidative stress as well as moderate emotional stress levels.
Leafy greens – vegetables including, spinach, kale, collards, bok choy and chard are high in folate, a B vitamin that is the precursor for dopamine – the feel good hormone!
Garlic – garlic is high in both magnesium and sulfur, which are important in helping the nervous system function properly.
Cherries – unknown to most, cherries are actually a natural source of melatonin, a hormone responsible for relaxation and sleep promotion.
Try this delicious treat before bed to help you destress and relax:
DARK CHOCOLATE AND CHERRY TRUFFLES:
In a food processor, blend together 1 c of organic dried cherries (pitted), ¼ dried walnuts and ¼ C almonds until smooth and sticky mixture forms. Double boil 1 C of dark chocolate (high in magnesium, also good for stress!) until smooth and fully combined. Roll mixture of cherries into 1 inch balls and coat in melted chocolate. Set aside in the fridge for a few hours until chocolate hardens, and enjoy!
