Everybody’s on edge these days, but the weather is hot and we all need easy-breezy brain healthy recipes your family will devour. What’s even better is these foods also have some serious soothing properties that can help take that edge off, so you feel cool and calm. And some of them are also immune boosters to help keep you healthy all year-round.
Take care of your family today with these stress-busting recipes:
Soothing factor: Lamb is rich in many vitamins and minerals, including calming zinc and selenium. People with panic disorder tend to have low levels of zinc and having low levels of selenium is tied to anxiety, depression, and fatigue. A British study on selenium in Biological Psychiatry found that people who consumed the highest amounts of the mineral had lower anxiety levels and better moods. Zinc and selenium both also enhance immune system function to fight against viral and bacterial infections. And when you’re healthy and in a good mood, the whole family has more fun.
Soothing factor: This refreshing relaxation salad is an ideal side for your lamb kabobs. Research in Current Neuropharmacology shows that feelings of anxiousness and nervousness are associated with a reduced antioxidant state. The kale in this wholesome slaw is packed with antioxidants to support healthy brain functioning as well as magnesium, which is known for promoting relaxation.
Celery Stick + Tahini Cheese Quick Snack
Soothing factor: Everybody loves to nibble on finger foods, and these crunchy celery sticks won’t disappoint. This green veggie boasts an array of calming effects. For example, a pilot study in Natural Medicine Journal shows that celery may decrease high blood pressure, a sign of elevated stress. In addition, celery contains tryptophan, a precursor of the “don’t worry, be happy” neurotransmitter serotonin that helps you feel good.
Fresh Berries with Macadamia-Nut Sauce
Soothing factor: This festive red, white, and blue dessert will top off your Independence Day celebration with more anxiety-fighting effects. Macadamia nuts are full of fiber and can act as a prebiotic, which benefits the overall health of your gut. And that’s so important because a growing body of scientific research suggests that anxiousness can be related to problems with gut health. A 2019 review of over 20 studies in General Psychiatry found that in more than half of the studies, improving gut health helped reduce symptoms of anxiety. Happy gut, calmer mind.
Fun Drinks
Don’t forget to have fun with brain-approved beverages. A few of my family’s favorites include:
- Waterworks: Like fireworks in a glass, this simple drink includes fizzy sparkling water, flavored stevia, and your favorite berries—maybe raspberries and blueberries for a patriotic flair.
- Iced Green Tea: Try a new take on traditional Southern sweet tea and serve up good-for-you green tea on the rocks with a dash of stevia and a sprig of mint.
- Chloe’s Party Root Beer Float: This twist on a summertime classic will thrill kids (of all ages) with root beer flavored Zevia and coconut milk ice cream.
You can find more brain healthy recipes on my website and in The Brain Warrior’s Way Cookbook. To promote calm and cope with anxious moods, consider Brain MD’s Happy Saffron, a potent mood supplement with three powerful nutraceuticals. If you’d like 21% off your order at BrainMD, just enter TANA21 at checkout. Stay calm, Warriors!