Plant Power: 6 Foods to Eat for Stress Relief

Let’s talk about stress.

This April is Stress Awareness Month, and, if you’re anything like us, you’re always on the lookout for new tips and tricks to help you get back on your feet when you’re feeling frazzled.

By now we all know that some activities are better for our stress levels than others, but did you know that goes for food too? Filling your body with the nutrients it needs is one of the best ways to ward off stress. And what better place to find those nutrients than in some of our favourite plant-based ingredients?

So, next time you feel like you’ve got too much on your plate (pun intended), why not load up on these stress-busting foods?

Dark Chocolate

It might sound too good to be true, but dark chocolate’s high magnesium and antioxidant content makes it the perfect treat to turn to in times of stress. Break off a couple of chunks of your favourite dark choc bar or treat your taste buds to one of our deliciously gooey chocolate-coated snacks.

Oats

Not only are oats packed with fibre, but they’re rich in B vitamins, which are crucial for improving cognitive performance and relieving stress. Why not kickstart your day by tucking into a warm bowl of porridge or adding a splash of creamy oat milk to your morning coffee?

Nuts

Fatty acids, vitamin B, magnesium. Is there anything nuts don’t have?! While cashews, hazelnuts, and brazil nuts are all great choices if you’re looking to lower your stress levels, walnuts are our personal favs, containing the highest levels of brain-boosting omega-3 fats. Enjoy them on their own or sprinkle a few into your salad to give it an extra healthy kick.

Spinach

Like dark choc, spinach is super rich in magnesium, which is one of the minerals we all need more of if we’re trying to ward off stress. Add this leafy-green veggie to any stir fry or salad, or simply sauté in a pan with some minced garlic and enjoy as a nutritious side dish.

Blueberries

They might be small, but blueberries are absolutely bursting with antioxidants and vitamin C, making them powerful weapons in the fight against stress. Grab a handful to eat on the go or throw a few into a fruit smoothie for a vitamin-packed treat.

Avocado

What better way for us round off our list of stress-busting foods than with everyone’s favourite green machine, avocado? High in fibre and rich in B vitamins, avocadoes are great for your body and your brain, so why not treat yourself to some avo toast on your next brunch date?