7 Stress-Causing Foods You Should Avoid at All Costs

Alcohol

It’s not unusual for people to rely on a glass of wine to unwind from a long and stressful day or grab a few drinks at a social gathering.

But for some, social situations can raise anxiety and therefore up their dependence on that liquid courage, according to a review in the ‌American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine‌. Alcohol might help you feel relaxed at first.

However, it can lead to raised anxiety later on when it wears off. And the situation gets much worse if you’re taking medications like Xanax, which alcohol interacts with in a negative way, according to dietitians.

This stress-causing food raises bacteria in the intestines, and an overgrowth in gut bacteria can activate inflammation, according to a review in ‌Alcohol Research‌‌.‌

It’s been proven that there’s a connection between the gut and the brain, and these gut shifts are associated with disruptions in brain function and anxiety symptoms. Drinking alcohol also hinders the absorption of nutrients and can disturb a healthy sleep pattern.

And wouldn’t you know it? Lack of essential nutrients and sleep might further perpetuate anxiety and stress. The bottom line: You should watch your alcohol intake, drink moderately, or try to get help to avoid it altogether.