The “De-Stressing” Diet: 8 Food Habits to Calm Your Nerves

In our high-stress world, food can either be a source of anxiety or a tool for calm. A sustainable diet, with its focus on balance and nourishment, provides a powerful framework for de-stressing your body and mind.
The habit of balancing your blood sugar is paramount. The highs and lows from a sugary, processed diet can mimic the physical symptoms of anxiety. By using the “smart eating order” and choosing whole foods, you create a stable internal environment, which helps to calm your nervous system.
Prioritizing nutrient-dense foods is also key. Many nutrients found in a whole-foods diet, like magnesium (found in nuts and leafy greens) and B-vitamins (found in whole grains and legumes), play a direct role in regulating your stress response. A balanced plate is like a dose of calming nutrients.
The mindful aspect of a sustainable diet is also a powerful de-stressor. Practices like eating without distraction, savoring your food (even a small portion of a treat), and connecting with the seasons can be meditative, grounding practices. Instead of stress-eating, you learn to eat in a way that relieves stress.