Consuming foods with high levels of zinc & magnesium may help to improve mental health status by reducing stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms.

Magnesium

Studies have shown that magnesium decreases cortisol in the nervous system, which is critical for managing stress & anxiety. It also helps to improve sleep patterns, headaches, and fatigue.

Zinc

Zinc helps to raise GABA, a neurotransmitter that balances anxiety and stress. Decreased levels of zinc in the diet are associated with lower levels of GABA.

Foods to Reduce Stress & Anxiety

• Nuts and Seeds
• Yogurt
• Dark Chocolate
• Mushrooms
• Legumes
• Beef and Chicken
• Oysters
• Avocado
• Dark Leafy Greens
• Tofu

SOURCES:

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32503201/
2. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33864354/
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32359749/