Anxiety is twice as likely to affect women as it is men, and this psychological problem can be even more common during menopause. This is also not an uncommon condition: around 25 million Americans suffer from an anxiety disorder. It is important to seek treatment of you have an anxiety disorder, since anxiety can decrease quality of life.
It is important to know that there is no evidence that certain foods or diets will reduce or sooth any mental health condition, including anxiety. However, eating a healthy diet will help you be your healthiest self so you are more prepared to battle your condition.There are multiple forms of anxiety, which include:
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Social phobia
- Panic disorder
- Post traumatic stress disorder
- Obsessive compulsive disorder
Top 5 Foods to Energize your Fight Against Anxiety
Almonds
Rich in vitamin B12 and zinc, these nuts also contain monsaturated fats and iron. This combination is beneficial to overall health, and can give you the necessary energy boost needed to help reduce feelings of anxiety.
Blueberries
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and can make a yummy addition to oatmeal, yogurt, and fruit salads. They are a great snack that increase energy may improve your mood.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate has long been touted for its move-improvement abilities, and it also has a range of health benefits. This means that dark chocolate is a good choice if you are looking for something to indulge on. However, be careful to avoid candy bars and other types of overly processed chocolate.
Oily Fish
Oily fish includes salmon, mackerel, and sardines, and are well known for being rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Oily fish is excellent for the heart and lowers the risk of getting a heart attack, along with the risks of getting dementia, poor vision, and arthritis. One study also shows that omega-3 fatty acids may decrease anxiety, but more research needs to be done.
Water
It is important to stay hydrated throughout the day, both for overall health and because being dehydrated causes poor mood, which can agitate anxiety. Make sure you are drinking water throughout the day, and try to include other things with high water-content into your diet like soups, smoothies, teas, and fresh fruits and vegetables.
More about Foods and Anxiety
Sticking to a nutritious diet is crucial for a healthy body. Anxiety can exacerbate many problems during menopause, and tackling anxiety can help you feel better overall. Certain foods probably will not reduce anxiety, but they can help you feel healthier and improve your overall well-being. Click for more information about treatments for menopausal anxiety.
Sources
- National Health Service. (2014). Healthy Eating and Depression. Retrieved November 24, 2015, from http://www.nhs.uk/conditions/stress-anxiety-depression/pages/healthy-diet-depression.aspx
- National Renewable Energy Laboratory. (2015). Oily fish: mighty omega-3 or codswallop? Retrieved November 24, 2015, from http://www.nhs.uk/livewell/superfoods/pages/is-oily-fish-a-superfood.aspx