Does Eating Meat Help With Anxiety?

What is the brain’s main function in eating red meat?

Red meat is packed with amino acids, saturated fat, omega-3s, cholesterol, antioxidants, B vitamins, iron, zinc, and selenium all of which the brain needs in order to produce and transmit neurotransmitters adequately that regulate our mood states like anxiety and depression.

Red meat that is free of these substances gives our brain and body the nutrients it needs to function optimally. That’s why it’s important that you choose red meat that is organic and grass-fed, not from conventional factory farms or confined animal feeding operations.

At the end of the 12-week study, 32% of the red meat-eaters reported that their depression and anxiety symptoms had vanished — while only 8% of those eating a diet high in carbs and processed foods had improvement.

Other factors that contribute to the epidemic of anxiety and depression in our society include environmental toxins, microbial overgrowth, and chronic stress. When one addresses these issues in conjunction with a diet rich in red meat and low in carbs, then significant improvements in mental health can be made.

When the diet is heavy in red meat, then it is lower in carbohydrates. A diet that is high in carbs promotes inflammation, feeds microbial overgrowth, disrupts the endocrine system and hormone balance, depletes calming neurotransmitters like GABA and serotonin and increases excitatory neurotransmitters like glutamate and norepinephrine, …

Red meat does not cause any of these conditions. If the animal is eating grains that disrupt its omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acid ratio, or it is pumped full of hormones, antibiotics, pesticides, and additives, then it will cause disease, but it is those substances added that cause disease, not the red meat itself.

Eating Red Meat Alleviates Anxiety and Depression. Anxiety and depression are epidemics in our society. Although there are a variety of issues that contribute to this problem, the diet that one eats plays a critical role.

What should I avoid when I have anxiety?

If so, what should I eat, and which foods should I try to avoid? People who suffer with anxiety should remember a few simple rules: Low blood sugar, poor hydration, use of alcohol, caffeine , and smoking can also precipitate or mimic symptoms of anxiety.

cut back on caffeine, alcohol, and smoking cigarettes. eat foods rich in zinc, like whole grains, oysters, kale, broccoli, legumes, and nuts. eat foods rich in magnesium: fish, avocado, dark leafy greens. eat foods rich in vitamin B, such as asparagus, leafy greens, meat, and avocado.

It may become a problematic behavior, as nicotine can also raise blood pressure and heart rate, which are also symptoms of anxiety. People who feel anxiety may lean on alcohol to calm their nerves, but excessive drinking can lead to its own set of emotional and physical problems.

If you are only using diet to combat anxiety, this change may not be obvious or immediate.

A review of the literature examining the effects of diet on anxiety-related behavior highlighted that foods high in fat and/or sugar, or that are highly palatable, can affect behavior in animal models, and may do the same in humans. More human studies are needed. Some of the following tips may be useful for you:

Many sodas contain caffeine and have a high sugar content. Being aware of these factors and substituting plain water or sparking water for soda can be a healthier option. Working toward a well-balanced diet with adequate fruits, vegetables, lean meats, and healthy fats remains a good recommendation for those who struggle with anxiety. …