Emotional eating is all too common among individuals wanting for their problems to disappear. Eating excessively, particularly unhealthy foods, can be detrimental not only to physical health but to mental health as well. Food is related to our psychology- from our moods to our energy levels.
Columbia University psychiatrist Drew Ramsey, M.D. lists foods that can help beat off stress. The author of "Fifty Shades of Kale" and "The Happiness Diet" gives a caveat: check portion sizes as this can determine caloric intake.
According to Dr. Ramsey, oatmeal with honey and cinnamon helps in producing great amounts of serotonin, the feel-good hormone. The fiber in oatmeal, which digests slowly, does not cause an erratic blood sugar spike compared with other types of food. Adding cinnamon adds a calming effect, as cinnamon has been found to ease frustrated feelings. A teaspoon or so of honey is equally beneficial, as it satisfies sweet cravings and boosts immunity.
Green tea is also part of Dr. Ramsey's list of stress-busting foods. In 2011, a group of researchers found that L-theanine, also known as the amino acid found in green tea, is linked with feeling cooler under pressure. Green tea also contains some caffeine, guaranteed to provide an instant jolt. This results not only to a calmer state but also helps in staying focused.
Dr. Ramsey also adds sweet potatoes as a go-to food for anybody who wants to stave off stress. This type of potato's natural sweetness is just the tip of the iceberg. Sweet potatoes are abundant in nutrients such as carotenoids and fiber, the former being a surefire optimism boost.
Yogurt with berries also makes it to the list. Plain, low-fat Greek yogurt is much recommended than commercial yogurt. It is an excellent source of calcium and protein, leaving your body to release feel-good neurotransmitters. Adding berries gives it a sweet edge as well as a dose of antioxidants and vitamin C.
