Post-Election Stress? Try These 7 Foods To Keep Calm

The 2016 presidential election has been, without a doubt, one of the most contentious, toxic, and downright stressful moments in recent U.S. history. Stress eating to help manage the overwhelming emotions most people feel — no matter their political affiliation — is totally normal. But, as soothing and tempting as it may seem, downing an entire supersized bag of potato chips followed with a pizza and ice cream might actually make the stress and anxiety worse. Instead, try some of these healthier options that have been proven to help with stress and anxiety.

1. Dark Chocolate-Covered Almonds

According to a 2009 Swiss study, the “chocolate cure” is real. Researchers linked dark chocolate with reduced levels of stress hormones, as well as lowered blood pressure. Almonds, on the hand, are rich in energy-boosting protein and healthy monounsaturated fat, which has been connected to lower rate of depression. Put those two delicious yet healthy foods together for one tasty stress-fighting treat.

2. Sweet Potatoes

Try swapping out those greasy french fries with sweet potato fries. Sweet potatoes are packed with fiber and carotenoids, which have been proven to boost optimism. “You’ll get a carby, sweet sensation without the blood-sugar spike,” said Columbia University psychiatrist Drew Ramsey, M.D. and author of “The Happiness Diet.”

3. Oatmeal and Overnight Oats

A nice, warm bowl of oatmeal or overnight oats might just be the trick to soothing anxiety. They are high in tryptophan levels and melatonin, which can induce calm feelings and help with getting a full night’s sleep.

4. Salmon

Salmon is essentially an anti-stress superfood. It’s full of omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, magnesium, and even a bit of tryptophan. It’s also quick and easy to cook. “The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon have anti-inflammatory properties that may help counteract the negative effects of stress hormones,” says Lisa Cimperman, RD, of the University Hospitals Case Medical Center and a spokesperson for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

5. Green Tea

The amino acid in green tea has been linked to helping people keep cool under pressure. Green tea also has caffeine, so not only does it help manage stress but it also provides a jolt of energy.

6. Wine (In Moderation)

Wine, along with other alcohol, is a central nervous system depressant. In other words, it takes the edge off and helps lower blood pressure. Wine, in particular, is full of flavonoids and antioxidants. Just make sure to keep it to one glass of wine.

7. Raw Veggies

Raw vegetables, such as carrots or celery, can help alleviate stress in a mechanical way. Munching on crunchy raw veggies helps release a tense, clenched jaw. So these veggies may not be delivery to same anti-stress punch as salmon, but the simple act of crewing on some crunchy carrots could be soothing.

Danielle Tarasiuk

Danielle Tarasiuk is a multimedia journalist based in Los Angeles. Her work has been published on AllDay.com, Yahoo! Sports, KCET, and NPR-affiliate stations KPCC and KCRW. She’s a proud Sarah Lawrence College and USC Annenberg alumn.

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