When work overwhelms you to the point of anger or stress, many people look for sweets or sugary drinks to soothe their minds. However, excessive sugar can cause blood sugar levels to spike and fall sharply, leading to even more mood swings.
Choosing foods rich in nutrients that help lower cortisol, the stress hormone, is a better solution. Thairath Online shares five natural ingredients that are easy to find, convenient to carry, and perfect for chewing at your desk.
Dark chocolate containing at least 70 percent cocoa is a favorite for many and a lifesaver when moods turn sour. The antioxidants in the flavonoid group found in dark chocolate help reduce levels of cortisol and adrenaline in the body.
It also stimulates the release of endorphins and serotonin—known as happiness chemicals—helping the brain relax and relieve tension immediately after just a few bites.
Crunching something crispy when angry offers psychological stress relief, and almonds are the perfect choice. These nuts are rich in vitamin B2, vitamin E, and magnesium, which help regulate blood pressure spikes during anger and support nervous system and brain function. Carrying a handful of natural roasted almonds allows you to chew enjoyably while calming your emotions.
If nuts aren’t appealing, pumpkin seeds are another item desk workers should keep on hand. Pumpkin seeds are among the highest natural sources of magnesium, a mineral crucial for mood regulation and anxiety control.
A deficiency in magnesium can cause irritability and increased anxiety. Chewing shelled pumpkin seeds daily helps maintain nervous system balance and improves resilience to stress.
When feeling angry or stressed, the body experiences inflammation and increased cellular stress. Fresh chilled blueberries are rich in vitamin C and anthocyanin antioxidants, which reduce inflammation and help the body manage stress better. Their sweet-tart flavor also refreshes a tired brain during work.
Bananas are an easy-to-eat fruit that effectively improves mood due to their amino acid tryptophan content, which the body converts into serotonin, the mood-enhancing chemical. Bananas are also high in potassium, which helps lower heart rate and regulate blood pressure when emotions flare. Eating a banana in the afternoon can reduce irritability and boost work energy efficiently.
Choosing these natural ingredients not only helps relieve anger in the short term but also supports long-term physical health without relying on sugar or high-sodium snacks.
On days when you feel overwhelmed and unable to control your emotions, try placing these ingredients beside your keyboard. They will surely help protect both your work and your mental well-being.