Stressed spelled backward is desserts- and that’s why when we’re stressed, we often stuff our faces with chocolate and ice cream. Although we usually opt for unhealthy food choices when we’re stressed, it’s not the best choice. It might taste great, but it’s not great for our health. Treat yourself to those unhealthy indulgences once and a while, but these are the best foods to really give your brain the relaxation it craves:

Oatmeal

Carb loading when you’re stressed can be healthy! Oatmeal is a complex carb, which won’t raise stress-induced high blood sugar, unlike other carbs.

Salmon

Stress can induce anxiety hormones like adrenaline. Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids that have tons of anti-inflammatory properties and can help with those hormones.

Pistachios

Pistachios are absolutely delicious, but they also can oddly help with stress. Some people pick their nails, and other people open up pistachios. The movement of cracking open pistachio shells gives your hands something to do and takes your mind off of stress.

Dark chocolate

So you can eat healthy desserts, after all!! Dark chocolate specifically can regulate your stress levels. Dark chocolate can also reduce stress hormones and lower blood pressure.

Avocado

So avocado toast is the perfect stress snack! Avocados are high in healthy fats, which keep you fuller for longer, meaning less frequent stress snacking.

Cashews

Cashews are full of zinc, which is a mineral often found to reduce anxiety. So if you’re feeling anxious, you might find a handful of cashews does the trick.

Blueberries

Blueberries are super high in antioxidants and phytonutrients. Both of those help improve how your body reacts to stress and free radicals caused by stress.

Green leafy vegetables

A big salad might not be the ideal stress snack, but green leafy vegetables contain folate, which produces dopamine. Dopamine a significant contributor to staying happy and calm, so a salad might be your best bet!