Chocolate is able to lower stress and improve mood probably due to its high tryptophan content. What is tryptophan? This is a substance that our body uses to make "happy hormones" like serotonin. Because it has to be dark chocolate, snack on a bar that is at least 70% cocoa.

Bananas contain much of a vitamin called B6, which may lower stress and reduce tiredness. Along with this, Bananas are a source of dopamine (the "feel-good" hormone); because your dopamine levels tend to drop when you're stressed, eat a banana to help balance your mood :)

Why is it so important to drink water? Levels of your stress hormone (cortisol) are much higher when you are thirsty, so make sure to hydrate throughout the day! If you don't like the taste of water, try alternatives like sparkling water, or adding a slice of lemon to your water.

Eat a meal filled with complex carbs like wholegrain bread, pasta, rice, or oats. Eating carbs actually triggers the release of serotonin! Complex carbs are better for your stress levels than simple carbs because they take longer to digest, keeping your blood sugar levels at a good place, and providing a steady supply of serotonin throughout the day.

Leafy green vegetables like brussels sprouts, asparagus, broccoli, kale, and spinach contain a vitamin called folate. This vitamin helps your brain produce serotonin and dopamine, which both are great for improving your mood. Specifically, serotonin is associated with feelings of happiness, focus, and calm, while dopamine is associated with feelings of rewards, motivation, and being productive. Because leafy greens also contain magnesium, they help regulate blood pressure and cortisol levels.

Citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruit all contain vitamin c, which contains properties that alleviate stress. Snack on an orange or grapefruit, or add some lemon slices to your water!