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question

What can I eat for breakfast to ease anxiety?

Dr. Mike Dow, PsyD
Dr. Mike Dow, PsyD
Addiction Medicine
answer

The first answer to this question is: something!  People who skip breakfast are setting themselves up for low blood sugar which can trigger states of anxiety.  If you don't eat anything and just drink coffee, you'll make the situation even worse; the caffeine in coffee releases dopamine in the brain - your main "up" switch.

Swap the coffee for caffeine-free tea.  For a more manageable dose of caffeine, try green tea.  Oolong tea is another great option, as it contains GABA - a calming neurotransmitter in the brain. 

One of my favorite breakfasts is egg whites in a high fiber tortilla.  The egg whites contain tryptophan - a precursor to serotonin.  And the whole grain tortilla also releases serotonin in the brain.  Another great option is fresh or frozen berries in yogurt.  The whole fruit and yogurt both release the soothing brain chemical serotonin.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.