We all experience anger from time to time and it’s important to find healthy ways to cope with this emotion. One surprising way to channel your anger in a positive direction is through the foods you eat. Certain foods have been shown to help regulate emotions and promote feelings of calmness and relaxation. In this blog post, we’ll explore some foods that you should consider eating when you’re feeling angry or frustrated.
Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate is not only delicious but it also contains compounds that can help improve mood and reduce feelings of anger and stress. The antioxidants in dark chocolate have been shown to boost serotonin levels in the brain which can help regulate mood and promote feelings of well-being.
Fatty fish: Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids which have been linked to improved mood and reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety. Including fatty fish in your diet can help reduce feelings of anger and promote a sense of calmness.
Leafy greens: Leafy greens like spinach, kale and Swiss chard are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help support overall mental health. These nutrient-dense foods can help reduce inflammation in the body which has been linked to increased levels of anger and irritability.
Nuts and seeds: Nuts like almonds, walnuts, and seeds like flaxseeds and chia seeds are great sources of magnesium, a mineral that plays a key role in regulating emotions and reducing stress. Including nuts and seeds in your diet can help improve mood stability and reduce feelings of anger.
Herbal teas: Herbal teas like chamomile, peppermint and lavender have calming properties that can help soothe the mind and body during times of anger or frustration. These teas can promote relaxation and may help reduce feelings of irritability.
While it’s important to find healthy ways to cope with anger, incorporating certain foods into your diet can be a helpful tool in managing this powerful emotion. Dark chocolate, fatty fish, leafy greens, nuts and seeds, and herbal teas are just a few examples of foods that can help regulate emotions and promote feelings of calmness when you’re feeling angry or frustrated. Physical activity can also help release anger, so try to take a whole-body approach when treating anger. By making mindful choices about the foods you eat during times of heightened emotion, you can take steps towards achieving emotional balance and overall well-being. Reach out to a dietitian or naturopathic doctor to learn more!
