Experts suggest thatdiet can directly affect mental well-being, including anxiety, stress, and mood.
Caffeine can be found in coffee, tea, soda pop, chocolate, and some medications.
This effect was particularly strong at doses higher than 400 mg.
Eat healthy foods to combat anxiety.Lew Robertson / Getty Images
Try alternatives such as herbal teainstead of coffee.
Alcohol can aggravate feelings ofdepression(which often coincide with anxiety) and is best avoided or limited.
This may then contribute to anxiety and other mood problems.
If you feel particularly anxious after consuming an artificial sweetener, it might be wise to avoid that product.
Drink Water
Stay hydrated by drinking water throughout the day.
Dehydration can lead to lower energy levels which can worsen anxiety.
Diet factors linked to higher anxiety levels included consuming more fat, sugar, and refined carbohydrates.
Inadequate tryptophan and protein intake were also associated with greater anxiety levels.
Research has also explored whether curcumin, a compound found in turmeric, might help prevent anxiety disorders.
Yogurt
The probiotics in yogurt may have several health benefits, including improving gut health.
Researchers are continuing to explore the connection between gut health and brain health.
Some evidence suggests that consuming probiotic yogurt regularly can help people cope better with stress.
One study found that people who ate dark chocolate twice a day for two weeks had lower anxiety levels.
Also, be sure to avoid any allergens or foods that seem to worsen your anxiety.
Consult with your physician and/or a dietitian for specialized recommendations for you, and your particular situation.
Sugars and refined carbohydrates can affect blood sugar levels and gut health.
Keto diets may impact GABA levels in the brain, which could affect anxiety.
A 2020 study found that low-carbohydrate, high-fat diets such as the keto diet may benefit some anxiety disorders.
However, the authors of the study caution that more research is needed before such diets can be recommended.
People experiencing anxiety have a harder time falling and staying asleep at night.
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