Diet for anxiety disorder

Studies have frequently shown a link between chocolate and improved health as it contains a good amount of nutrients like flavanols, tryptophan, etc.

Dark chocolate may increase serotonin levels not only due to the serotonin and L-tryptophan it contains, but also because it contains carbohydrates in the form of sugar, which can signal the body to produce more serotonin. So whenever you are feeling low, stressed or anxious, you can have 1-2 blocks of dark chocolate to improve your mood.

Evidence suggests that green tea contains a good amount of L-theanine, an amino acid that has positive effects on brain health. It helps reduce anxiety, stress and treat insomnia. To benefit from it, add 1-2 cups of green tea in your daily diet.

It’s important to remember that green tea also contains some amount of caffeine, which can inhibit the absorption of iron. It’s best to avoid having it with or just before a meal.

Turmeric latte has gained popularity recently but it is one of the oldest Ayurvedic medicines as well. It is well-known for its antiseptic, anti-microbial and anti-cancer properties. Turmeric milk helps our body boost serotonin levels, which can help to relieve anxiety and depression.

There are several studies that support the fact that curcumin, the bioactive compound found in turmeric, helps treat anxiety. To add this superfood to your regular diet, you can add it to your curry, pickle, dal, milk, tea, etc.

Several studies have shown that probiotic foods like yoghurt and fermented foods may promote mental health and brain function by inhibiting free radicals and neurotoxins, which can damage nerve tissue in the brain and lead to anxiety. If you are suffering from an anxiety disorder, try to add at least one probiotic-rich food to your daily meal. Idli, dosa, dhokla, jalebi, kefir, buttermilk, curd, axone are rich sources of probiotics; choose them according to your taste and availability.

Chamomile is a flower belonging to the daisy family, commonly used as a herb. It contains high amounts of antioxidants which helps with many health conditions including sleep problems, anxiety, digestive issues, mouth sores, skin infections, wound healing, etc. If you are suffering from any of these conditions, this tea can be of great help to you. Have it 1-2 hours before your bedtime for better sleep quality and to control anxiety.

Many research studies link vitamin D deficiency to mood disorders, such as depression and anxiety. In such cases, consuming egg yolks can help as it contains a good amount of vitamin D.

Eggs also contain tryptophan, which is an amino acid that helps to create serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, which helps regulate mood, sleep and memory. Serotonin also helps improve brain function and reduce anxiety. For the total benefit of this food, have 1-2 whole eggs daily.

Ginger is known for its anti-gastric properties and is commonly used in herbal tea for cough and cold treatments. But it also influences serotonin levels which treat and reduce anxiety as benzodiazepine drugs. For total benefit, have raw ginger or one teaspoon of ginger juice with honey, once or twice a day.

Almonds are a rich source of vitamin E and magnesium. There are separate research studies that support the fact that consuming vitamin E and magnesium can help boost your mental health and reduce the symptoms of anxiety disorder. If you’re someone who doesn’t enjoy plain almonds, you can also try having it as almond milk or almond butter.