Stress-Reducing Foods

Start the road to de-stressing with these body-soothing superfoods

In his book, Clean & Lean Diet, James Duigan explains how stressful lifestyles cannot only be bad for your mental health, but can lead to weight gain, too.

Stress can make you fat!

To help combat stress, click through for James' pick of the best body-soothing foods.

Stress can make you fat!

To help combat stress, click through for James' pick of the best body-soothing foods.

Avocado

James advises that the beauty of avocados is that they are creamy - so will satisfy a craving. He adds, 'all the good fat and potassium they contain can lower your blood pressure (and therefore stress levels). For a stress-busting breafst, try having hlaf an avocado on its own or with an oatcake.

Nuts

Nuts help boost a battered immune systeam, plus they're full of B Vitamins, which help to lower stress levels. Snack on a small handful, but don't go overboard with your portion size. Stick to a handful a day.

Berries

Berries are full of vitamin C, which helps the body to deal with stress. Plus, they're full of fibre, which helps to regulate blood-sugar levels (blood sugar levels fluctuate when you're stressed).

Green vegetables

Dark green vegatables help to replenish the body with vitamins in times of stress. Have these with every meal if you can, James advises, but try to make sure they are organic.

Turkey

Turkey contains an amino acid called L-tryptophan, which releases serotonin (a calming, feelgood hormone) into the body. Eating turkey has a soothing effect on the body and can even help you sleep better. Choose skinless and organic for the healthiest option.

Sweet potatoes

Sweet potatoes will satisfy a carb craving, but contain more fibre and vitamins than white potatoes.

DISCOVER THE WORST STRESS-INDUCING FOODS HERE