Many women turn to unhealthy foods like ice cream when they are under stress to try to help themselves feel better. However, that may not be the best choice. A University of Sydney study has found that five to seven servings of fruits and vegetables per day can cut the risk of stress by 23%. Deficiencies in vitamins B, C and E can affect mental health and feelings of depression. Eating produce such as citrus fruits, strawberries, bell peppers, leafy green vegetables and bananas can help to combat these deficiencies and therefore reduce the effects of stress.
Key Takeaways:
- To get filled with those good nutrients, try citrus fruits, strawberries, or bell peppers for vitamin C; green leafy vegetables for vitamin E; and bananas and avocados for vitamin B.
- Most fruits and vegetables are high in antioxidants such as vitamins C and E, which can help reduce age-related inflammation,
- And deficiencies in B vitamins, such as folic acid [vitamin B9], influence mood regulation and have also been associated with depression.
“A recent study from the University of Sydney found that women who ate five to seven daily servings of fruits and vegetables slashed their risk for stress by 23 percent compared with those who ate fewer or none.”
Read more: http://www.womenshealthmag.com/food/foods-to-beat-stress