If you struggle with anxiety, exercising regularly, consistently getting eight hours of sleep a night and even cutting out caffeine can help. But if you’ve tried all of those and still don’t feel relief, you may want to make some diet tweaks. Research shows that the gut and anxiety are closely linked and anxiety is linked to inflammation in the body, but certain foods can help counteract this.

Try adding these healthy foods to your diet to ease anxiety:

• Eggs

  They’re high in vitamin D, which the body uses to produce and release serotonin – a “feel-good” hormone, which can help boost your mood.

• Blueberries

  This superfood is known to have some amazing powers, blueberries can reverse cognitive decline, stave off dementia and lower your risk of heart disease. They’re also loaded with vitamin C, which can help lower levels of cortisol – the stress hormone – and that may help ease anxiety.

• Hummus

  This popular dip is made from chickpeas, a good source of tryptophan that the body uses to make melatonin – the sleep hormone – and serotonin. More serotonin can help lift your mood, as well as help relieve anxiety, and melatonin can help with sleep, which in turn can lower anxiety.

• Yogurt

  It’s packed with good bacteria that can help build and maintain a healthy gut microbiome. And a recent study finds that eating probiotic yogurt once a day for six weeks is linked to lower levels of anxiety.

• Peppermint tea

  It’s made from mint plants, has no caffeine and is a rich source of polyphenols, which may help reduce inflammation and ease anxiety.

• Salmon

  Studies suggest the omega-3 fatty acids in this fish can reduce inflammation in the body and lower anxiety as well. Plus, omega-3s also lower the risk of heart disease or stroke, and help with symptoms of eczema and arthritis as well.

• Dark chocolate

  Eating this tasty treat comes with benefits including lowering blood pressure, enhancing alertness and even improving your sex life. And some research finds it could reduce anxiety because it’s linked to comfort.

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