Stress eating is a habit I cannot get rid of and it happens more often than I would like to admit; it is a criminal offense to my well-being. People who lose their appetite when they are depressed or anxious amaze me; I wish I were that lucky. If tense situations tend to create a void in your stomach that you need to fill, the least you and I can do is go for healthy options.
The large bag of potato chips in the kitchen cupboard is probably calling your name, or you crave the biggest slice of your favorite kind of cake; I am thinking Red Velvet and Death by Chocolate.
I am not against rich desserts and calorie-loaded junk food, because they are obviously yummy. Despite providing temporary bliss, they cause symptoms that only add to your depression in the long run. You need to prevent your body from dying a wrongful death triggered by snacks high in carbs and cholesterol.
If you wish to eat and vanquish despair without weight gain and other health problems, that is doable. Below is a list of nutritious and delicious foods that will rejuvenate your body, heighten your spirits, and defeat the fatal hunger inside of you. A popular option for anyone keen on supplementing their diet are greens superfood powders, such as Athletic Greens (you can find more info), alongside vitamins/minerals you have other ingredients that can alleviate feelings of stress and anxiety.
Dark Chocolate
Everyone loves chocolate and it is a popular ‘antidepressant’, particularly among women. It comes in endless varieties and most of us prefer the sweetened kind. However, dark chocolate, which contains zero or negligible sugar, is the one that falls into the healthy category.
It contains polyphenols and flavonols, which are two incredible antioxidants, known for reducing blood pressure and producing a calming effect. Pure dark chocolate or dark chocolate containing nuts are both great choices for stress relief. If you do not like it because of the slight bitterness, I shall let you know that it is an acquired taste.
Eat a few squares on a regular basis, and you will begin to enjoy it. Soon you might even prefer it to the calorie-laden sweet varieties.
Potatoes (not fried)
Can you believe that the much-loved potatoes made this list? Potatoes contain fiber, vitamins, and minerals that are highly beneficial to the human body. Above all, they are free of cholesterol, easily available, and affordable all around the globe.
However, you cannot count them as a healthy snack if you are going to deep-fry them. You can opt for a boiled potato salad with herbs, spices and a drizzle of olive oil. You can also have baked potatoes, which are equally scrumptious. As you can imagine, there are so many ways you can cook or prepare your potatoes to fit a healthy lifestyle.
Avocado Smoothie
We all know that avocadoes are an award-winning food in terms of health benefits. They are recommendable for curing indigestion, fighting depression, and protection against cancer. This creamy textured fruit contains an abundance of Vitamins and Minerals that will remove all toxins from your body.
You can eat it raw or turn it into a delightful smoothie by adding a few more healthy ingredients, i.e. skimmed milk, honey, and a hint of vanilla essence if you like.
Yogurt
Yogurt is a great alternative for the fatty whole milk cream and possesses the potential for making quite a few appetizing meals. Add in a few seasonal fresh fruits (preferably berries) and/or nuts to heighten the nutrition value. Yogurt is a low-calorie food rich in probiotics that enhance the intestinal microbiota; this improves digestion and prevents constipation. The calcium keeps your bones and teeth healthy as well.
Eggs
Eggs are a rich source of protein, which makes them filling and perfect for cellular development. The egg yolk provides Vitamin D along with various necessary minerals required by the body. You can spice up your poached/boiled eggs with a little salt & pepper or other spices.
You may create a nice salad with vegetables and dressing, or simply make a sandwich with low fat/cottage cheese; the possibilities are endless (avoid fried eggs and buttery omelets at all costs).
