Amazing Foods That Help Relieve Stress

Chamomile Tea

Chamomile has been used for everything from relieving allergies to inducing sleep, even to help induce a state of deep relaxation prior to cardiac catheterization. Chamomile extract contains three hydroxylates-- apigenin, bisabolol, and luteolin-- that help relax muscles and blood vessels. Research has even indicated that chamomile may be helpful in treating people suffering from anxiety and comorbid clinical depression.

Ragweed allergy sufferers take note, however: chamomile is in the same family as ragweed, and some people experience oral allergic symptoms from consuming it. Otherwise, try a few cups of chamomile tea to help get you through times of stress. Chamomile tea can also be used as a base for soups, like creamy chamomile and cauliflower soup.

Oatmeal

Serotonin is also known as one of the "Happy Chemicals," or neurotransmitters associated with a calm, relaxed, happy state. Oats are a natural way to help boost your body's production of serotonin. In addition to this, the fiber content of whole grain oats helps keep digestion working smoothly and eliminate waste from the body-- two important considerations when you're under physical or mental stress.

Enjoy a bowl of oatmeal in the morning for a warm, comforting start to your day. Whole grains take longer for your body to digest than cereals made from refined grains, so you'll feel fuller longer in addition to prolonging their stress-fighting effect.