What To Eat First Thing In The Morning To Reduce Anxiety

What you do in the morning sets the tone for the rest of your day — and that includes what you put on your plate. I offered some insights to Huffpost about what people with anxiety can eat for breakfast to set themselves up for a calmer, healthier day ahead.

Researchers in a 2015 study found a link between the consumption of fermented probiotic foods — such as yogurt — and a reduction in social anxiety.

“There is a link between the gut and the brain that continues to be researched,” Feller said. “Consuming foods that promote beneficial bacteria is thought to be supportive of both gut and brain health.”

For example, the vast majority of serotonin receptors are located in the lining of the gut. A deficiency in serotonin may lead to anxiety, depression or other mental health conditions, underscoring the importance of the gut-brain connection.

Opt for strained yogurt — i.e., the thicker kind, like Greek or Icelandic yogurt — that contains fat and more protein than regular yogurt to keep you satiated. Check the ingredients label for “live active cultures” — and “lactobacillus acidophilus” specifically — to ensure you’re getting those probiotic benefits.

“Try topping your bowl of yogurt with hulled hemp seeds, bee pollen, and pistachios, all of which are excellent sources of fiber and heart-healthy fats,” Feller said.