Foods that People with Anxiety Should Eat

Did you know that there are foods that can help us control our nerves, anxiety and depression due to the nutrients they contain?
Foods that People with Anxiety Should Eat

Last update: 15 December, 2022

People with anxiety can incorporate these foods into their diet to fortify the nervous system and prevent disorders such as anxiety, irritability, stress, and depression. 

Discover the benefits of eating green vegetables, nuts, sunflower seeds, brewer’s yeast, basil, and other foods to cope with anxiety.

Dealing with nerves

Although we may believe that nervous people will always stay that way, there are other factors besides personality that can alter your nervous system.

Some nutrients, such as the vitamin B group, magnesium, and phosphorus, can help us balance our nervous system gradually and naturally.

foods to cope with anxiety

Foods for anxious people

1. Green vegetables

Green vegetables

The greener and darker in color its leaves are, the more beneficial the vegetable will be for your nervous system, thanks to the large variety of nutrients that are found in green pigmentation.

There are two ways to consume these vegetables in order to consume the necessary quantities:

  • As side dishes to every meal (lunch and dinner)– for example, a salad rich in lettuce, arugula, watercress, chicory, etc.
  • Green shakes for breakfast or for a snack, made with green leafy vegetables and fruit (bananas, strawberries, pineapple, papaya).

2. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is a very nutritious cereal that’s rich in vitamins, minerals, protein, and fiber. It helps the nervous system in two different ways:

  • By revitalizing and increasing your energy levels.
  • It relieves nervous disorders such as anxiety or irritability. 

You can consume it in granola, shakes, soups, stews, drinks, etc.

3. Brewer’s yeast

Brewer's yeast

Brewer’s yeast, or nutritional yeast, is an excellent supplement for anxious people. 

It contains a large quantity of B group vitamins and minerals such as calcium, phosphorus, sulfur, magnesium, and zinc.

  • Besides being used to fight stress or anxiety, it is also a good remedy for skin, hair, and nail issues.
  • You can take a tablespoon (1og) per day, and mix it with juice, yogurt, or any other food.

4. Basil

Basil is a natural nerve suppressant that also calms all manifestations of nervousness in the stomach, such as pain or indigestion. 

You can consume it uncooked, in infusions, in sauces and vinaigrettes, or use its essential oil on the skin or to aromatize a relaxing bath.

5. Walnuts

Walnuts

Walnuts are a type of nut with antidepressant properties.

  • Their essential fatty acid content favors the production of serotonin, a powerful transmitter that produces a sense of well-being within us and calms anxiety and depression. 
  • Walnuts also contain B group vitamins, which fortify the nervous system.

A handful of raw or toasted walnuts per day is the recommended serving.

We recommend: 7 Benefits of Walnuts You Probably Didn’t Know About

6. Bananas

Bananas are delicious fruits rich in carbohydrates that give us plenty of energy. Furthermore, bananas are rich in potassium and B vitamins, which are two very beneficial nutrients for the nervous system.

  • You can take bananas anywhere because of their portability.
  • You can also add them to shakes, or even bake them in the oven to enjoy their sweetness.

7. Lemons

Lemon

There are different citrus fruits that help us improve our mood naturally, while providing us with a large number of nutrients. We highlight the lemon for being one of the most medicinal.

8. Lentils

Lentils improve your nervous system thanks to their magnesium content and group B vitamins, and they’re also an excellent source of vegetable protein and fiber.

For those who don’t enjoy eating lentil soup, we recommend trying them in hamburgers. This is a delicious, different, and very healthy way to eat lentils.

9. Cayenne pepper

Cayenne pepper

Cayenne pepper is a very hot spice with surprising health properties, among which is its ability to calm nerves and combat insomnia. 

However, you must begin by consuming it in very small quantities so that your stomach can get used to the hot pepper.

10. Avocados

Avocados are an excellent, delicious fruit.

This superfood helps us balance out any deficiencies thanks to its wide variety of vitamins, minerals, and essential acids. It also contains a fair amount of protein, fat, and fiber.

Be sure to include avocado in your milkshakes, salads, snacks, soups, garnishes, etc.


This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.