Anxiety disorders are known for being the most commonly diagnosed mental health illness in the United States, affecting over 40 million each year.
Although there isn’t a direct cure for anxiety, there are ways to manage it, including natural, at home methods. Oftentimes, this includes exercise, sleep, meditation and a healthy diet.
Research shows that foods packed with potassium, Vitamin B and Magnesium are great for anxiety relief, making avocados, which is loaded with all three, a strong, healthy choice.
Here’s why:
Potassium
First avocados are known for having high concentrations of potassium.
This mineral helps regulate multiple processes in the body, including the brain, neurons, the heart, blood pressure and the digestive system. If someone were to have a deficiency of this mineral, they might experience nervousness, aphresention and anxiety.
By eating foods that are rich in potassium, one can lower their anxiety levels. One avocado has 708 milligrams of potassium which is more than enough for your daily intake, making it a perfect breakfast or snack at lunch. (For comparison, a banana has 422 milligrams).
B6 Vitamins
Avocados are also rich in vitamin B which helps your body make serotonin, a chemical that regulates your mood. Studies have shown that those who lack Vitamin B are prone to experiencing anxiety, anxiety symptoms and other mental health disorders.
One way you can increase your intake of vitamin b is by eating an avocado and an egg together. When working to increase your vitamin B6 levels you should avoid excess amounts of alcohol, refined sugars, nicotine, and caffeine, as these will deplete your vitamin B6 levels.
Magnesium
Avocados are packed with magnesium, which regulates the body’s response to stress. Studies suggest that if you increase the amount of magnesium you consume, you may be able to reduce anxiety, lower stress levels and minimize the feeling of fear.
Research shows increasing magnesium can improve not only anxiety, but depression, too. In some cases, it can work as effectively as an antidepressant.
Good fat
Finally avocados are packed with good fats which are great for your cholesterol levels and body cells.
In addition, the fats found in avocados are helpful for your brain, helping to lower your chances of anxiety and other mental health disorders. (I ate these super foods for one week and this is what it felt like).
If you are looking for some ways to sneak avocados into your diet, you can start by eating an avocado with your eggs, making avocado hummus, or by eating it on a sandwich.