When it comes to managing anxiety, therapy and medication often take centre stage. But there’s another, often overlooked tool within everyone’s reach: food. What you put on your plate can have a direct impact on how calm, balanced, and resilient you feel.

The first rule? Focus on balance. Diets rich in whole foods, think fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, provide steady energy and vital nutrients for brain health. Magnesium, found in leafy greens and nuts, helps regulate stress hormones. B vitamins, abundant in whole grains and legumes, play a key role in mood regulation.

Fermented foods like yoghurt, kefir, and kimchi are gaining attention for their impact on gut health, which is closely linked to mental wellbeing. A healthy gut microbiome can reduce inflammation and boost mood-supporting chemicals like serotonin.

It’s also wise to limit stimulants and processed foods. Too much caffeine or sugar can spike anxiety, while alcohol disrupts sleep and mood stability.

The takeaway? Eating for anxiety isn’t about strict rules — it’s about small, consistent choices that nourish both body and mind. Over time, those choices can make you feel calmer, more grounded, and ready to face life’s challenges. Visit our dedicated ADHD and Autism centre for your free assessment, and for more information.