The stressors of the outside world have a direct impact on the internal workings of our bodies.

When we perceive stress, our brains release certain hormones to address the “threat.”  While these hormones are needed in order to live, too much stress can result in high levels of stress hormones – which can wreak havoc on our bodies.

Adrenaline and cortisone are two hormones that your body releases when stressed.  Too much of either can cause health issues.

These stress hormones are designed to be short-lived.  They are designed to prepare your body to successfully escape or fight-off a source of danger.

These stress hormones can become problematic in today’s world because our stressors are usually not short lived.

We experience stress on a daily basis, and in some seasons of life, it seems to never let up.

On the flip side, dopamine and serotonin are two hormones that increase your feelings of happiness and wellbeing. The release or increase of these hormones can relieve stress and boost your mood.

Dopamine and serotonin come from experiencing things or doing activities that make you happy.

Spending time with friends or family, watching the new season of your favorite show on Netflix, eating your favorite comfort foods.

These things all produce feel-good hormones, yet some are more beneficial than others for your long term health.

Stress-eating a common method of coping with stress.

Our favorite comfort foods like ice cream, cake, fried chicken, pasta, or wine can fill the void when we are feeling stressed or lonely.

Comfort foods temporarily relieve our emotions of stress by masking it with a feel-good hit of dopamine.

We often think of these indulgent foods when it comes to stress-eating, but did you know there are foods that can actually comfort you and relieve your stress at the same time?

Here’s food examples of comfort foods that will actually comfort you in times of stress, without making you feel guilty or sick to your stomach after indulging.

✔ Tahini

Tahini is a Middle Eastern butter made from ground, toasted sesame seeds. Tahini is rich in amino acids – including L-tryptophan. Your body converts L-tryptophan into serotonin.

✔ Chickpeas

Chickpeas are a type of legume. Chickpeas are rich in L-tryptophan. They also have a high level of magnesium – a mineral that our bodies need in order to combat stress. Chronic stress can result in depleted levels of magnesium.

✔ Blueberries

Blueberries are a low-calorie, vitamin packed fruit. Antioxidants found in blueberries can reduce the negative impact that stress can have on our bodies (inflammation, cell damage) and are believed to boost your mood.

✔ Avocados

Avocados are rich in potassium. When we are stressed, the release of stress hormones often increases our blood pressure. Potassium can lower blood pressure.

Next time you are feeling stressed, give these stress-relieving foods a try.

Gives “stress-eating” a whole new definition!

Be sure to add these stress-relieving foods to your grocery list next time you are stocking up on your food.