Feeling Stressed? These 5 Foods Can Help.

Today, we’re sharing 5 of the best foods to help your body handle stress more effectively — along with our favorite recipes that make adding them to your routine easier than ever.

Spring is officially here, and with the change of seasons comes a fresh start — but let’s be real, spring can also get busy. Between keeping up with work, family commitments, and everything else on the to-do list, stress can sneak up fast.

If you’re anything like me, you probably need a sticky note on your forehead to remember everything! Or maybe a reminder on the fridge… but here’s the good news: small, intentional choices can make a big difference when managing stress.

This month is National Stress Awareness Month. Throughout the month, we’ll be talking about ways to keep stress in check. Today, we’re sharing 5 of the best foods to help your body handle stress more effectively — along with our favorite recipes that make adding them to your routine easier than ever.

And stay tuned! Later this month, guest expert Patricia Bannan, MS, RDN, will be here to answer your top questions about stress and nutrition.

Let’s tackle stress together—starting with what’s on your plate!

The 5 Best Foods To Help Fight Stress

1. Dark Chocolate

Chocolate is one of the best feel-good foods, but research shows that dark chocolate might even have some scientifically backed benefits for your mental well-being! This is thanks to its positive effects on mood-regulating receptors in the brain.

Try This: 🔗 Dark Chocolate Coconut Fig Energy Balls

2. Legumes

Beans and Lentils have several nutrients involved in mood regulation and stress response, including amino acids like L-tryptophan, fiber, magnesium, and B vitamins.

Try This: 🔗 Cold Lentil Chopped Salad with Honey Walnut Dressing

3. Broccoli

Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli are powerhouses of nutrients such as magnesium, vitamin C, and folate, known to alleviate depressive symptoms and boost your mood!

Try This: 🔗 Spicy Stir-Fried Broccoli

4. Avocado

Avocado isn't just a trendy toast topper—its rich array of nutrients, like magnesium, omega-3s, and fiber, can help calm your nerves and support healthy brain function, making it a deliciously satisfying choice for combating stress.

Try This: 🔗 Creamy Avocado Lime Sauce

5. Salmon

Salmon's omega-3 fatty acids can help ease stress and anxiety by lowering inflammation and helping the brain with mood regulation. Studies have even linked omega-3-rich diets to improved mood and reduced anxiety and depression.

Try This: 🔗 Greek Sheet Pan Salmon

Purposeful Next Steps:

1. Plan Ahead: Block out 30 minutes on your calendar to plan 3-4 balanced meals for the week. (Bonus: Add your favorite stress-fighting foods!)

2. Prep in Batches: Roast veggies, marinate proteins, and whip up sauces in advance to save time midweek.

3. Keep a Reminder: Put your plan where you’ll see it — the fridge, your planner, or even the bathroom mirror!

I’d love to hear from you.

📌 What are you working on this spring? Let us know what’s on your plate — literally and figuratively! We’d love to hear how you’re staying organized and finding balance as the seasons change.