Don’t stress, eat up!

A-list favourite, healthy eating expert and founder of The Detox Kitchen, Lily Simpson helps you upgrade your diet to beat anxiety with food. Don’t stress, eat up!

Are there any foods you should avoid to keep stress at bay?

Yes! Wheat, dairy, refined sugar, high-fat meats, processed foods, caffeine and alcohol should be avoided 80% of the time (it’s really important to have a balanced attitude and approach – having an occasional treat is fine!). What we should be consuming is lots and lots of plant-based foods, good proteins such as quinoa, chicken, lentils and mackerel, fresh fruit, wholegrains and plenty of water to go with it.

What’s the connection between what you eat and your anxiety levels?

Anxiety is becoming a more common health problem. Diet plays a key role in managing any anxiety problem because certain foods will exacerbate its symptoms like palpitations, sweating, shortness of breath, dizziness, worry and insomnia. High GI foods will make you feel manic and edgy by causing sugar rushes and crashes. Caffeine, which releases cortisol, the stress hormone will also make you highly anxious and leave a mental fog. Unfortunately, with less time dedicated to preparing our food it means that people grab pre-made food, which comes packed with hidden sugars, preservatives and additives.

Any other ways your diet can help you feel less anxious? 

Following a low GI diet will keep blood sugar levels steady and avoid these ups and downs. Increasing foods high in omega-3 and magnesium have been shown to be great for mental functioning and controlling anxiety. Omega-3 found in all oily fish, helps lift mood by releasing natural ‘feel-good’ chemicals. Magnesium aids physical muscle relaxation, which will relieve hypertension. Sunflower seeds, kale and dark chocolate are all high in magnesium!