6 Low-Carb Foods to Help You Beat Stress

Stress seems inevitable. Whether it’s minimal or intense, stress seeps in and can throw off our diets, sleep patterns and overall moods. While exercise and meditation are well-known stress relievers, interestingly enough, certain foods have also been shown to contain stress-relieving qualities. Better yet, many of these foods are low-carb and fit perfectly into your low-carb meal plan!

Life can be stressful and finding time to unwind can be tough. Beat stress and power through the day with these six low-carb foods that are good for your mind and body.

1. Swiss Chard

This leafy green vegetable is loaded with magnesium, providing over 35 percent of the recommended daily intake, says Healthline. This is great… but why? According to Magnesium in the Central Nervous System, magnesium and its levels in the body are “highly associated with stress levels.” In fact, low levels of the mineral can result in higher stress levels, chronic fatigue, photosensitive headaches and fibromyalgia. “Plus, chronic stress may deplete your body’s magnesium stores, making this mineral especially important when you’re stressed,” says Healthline.

2. Artichokes

Artichokes aren’t typically on the average grocery list. However, this beautiful vegetable should be your first stop in the produce section! According to Healthline, artichokes are very high in fiber and prebiotics. They explain that some animal studies have shown prebiotics to help decrease stress levels. Medical News Today also says that prebiotics have been shown to stop stress from interrupting sleep.

“Artichokes are also high in potassium, magnesium, and vitamins C and K, all of which are essential for a healthy stress response,” says Healthline. Raw artichokes can be difficult to prepare, so consider purchasing canned or jarred artichokes that are packed in water! All of the hard work is done for you and they are a great addition to salads, pasta and more.

3. Salmon

Salmon and other fatty fish contain omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D. According to Healthline, these nutrients have been shown to boost mood and decrease stress. “Omega-3s are not only essential for brain health and mood but may also help your body handle stress,” explains Healthline. Likewise, low levels of vitamin D is linked to anxiety and depression. So, fire up your grill and enjoy some healthy, fatty fish to beat the stress of the day!

4. Avocados

In the same vein as the fatty fish, avocados are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, says Medical News Today. This green fruit is extremely versatile and can be used in both sweet and savory recipes. Try out these 11 Avocado Recipes That Will Totally Guac Your World! >

5. Blueberries

Looking for a treat to appease your sweet tooth and erase the stress of the day? Have some blueberries! Rich in antioxidants, blueberries are strong anti-inflammatories and have effective neuroprotectors, which can help to decrease stress-induced inflammation and cell damage, says Healthline. So, grab a handful for your bedtime snack and trust that this low-carb snack is also fighting hard for your body!

6. Eggs

The perfect breakfast—protein-packed, low-carb, stress-reducing! According to Healthline, “Whole eggs are packed with vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and antioxidants needed for a healthy stress response.” A rarity, eggs are highly rich in choline, which has been said to promote brain health and help ward off stress.

*Always speak with your doctor if you’re feeling overly stressed, sad or anxious.