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As anxiety levels soar, surpassing previous records, experts advocate for dietary interventions to alleviate stress and bolster mental well-being.

Amidst the surge in antidepressant usage and a growing demand for talking therapies, expert attention shifts toward alternative methods, notably dietary adjustments, to tackle anxiety.

Dr. Uma Naidoo, a psychiatrist, professional chef and author of "Calm Your Mind with Food," has pointed out the profound impact of food on mental health, attributing it to the intricate gut-brain axis-a bidirectional communication pathway vital for emotional regulation.

"Foods we consume have a big influence on our mental health and cognitive function due to the connection between our gut and our brain," Naidoo said, Women's Health reported.

The connection between diet and mental health is paramount, noted Naidoo, citing the significant influence of dietary choices on mood and cognitive function.

Like Naldoo, other experts also push for dietary changes to combat anxiety. Below are five food options they highly recommend for people who want to eliminate anxiety fast. 

1. Blueberries

Blueberries, renowned as "brainberries," boast abundant antioxidants and magnesium, shielding cells from stress and potentially alleviating depression.

According to nutritionist Dr. Daryl Gioffre, blueberries are dubbed "brainberries" due to their robust antioxidant content, which fortifies the brain and diminishes oxidative stress throughout the body. Additionally, blueberries offer a rich source of fiber, vitamin C and vitamin K.

"Blueberries specifically contain one of the highest concentrations of anxiety-reducing anthocyanin, a powerful antioxidant that supports brain health by fighting off oxidative stress," Naidoo explained. "Wild blueberries even have twice the antioxidant power of regular blueberries.

2. Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like spinach and Swiss chard boast natural abundance in magnesium, known for its calming effects. Research has revealed spinach's anti-stress and anti-depressive properties, while scientists found that increased consumption of vegetables, particularly dark leafy greens like spinach, carrots and cucumbers, led college students to feel calmer, happier and more energetic.

Naidoo stresed the importance of vegetables in promoting gut health, citing their richness in prebiotic fibers that nourish and sustain a plethora of beneficial gut bacteria.

This association with reduced neuroinflammation and stress highlights the significance of incorporating a variety of prebiotic foods into one's diet, including asparagus, garlic, onions, leafy greens, artichokes, legumes, mushrooms and apples, to ensure a diverse intake of brain-boosting vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

3. Avocados

Avocado, abundant in vitamin B, renowned for its stress and anxiety-reducing properties, facilitates the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.

According to Gioffre, "Avocados are loaded with calming minerals and B-vitamins which decrease tension in muscles and body. It's also a healthy plant-based keto fat, which will help reduce sugar cravings, and move your body into a fat-burning state that gives you better energy to do more in your day."

4. Turmeric

Turmeric, often likened to its vibrant yellow hue, holds promising potential akin to its cheerful appearance. A meta-analysis review has suggested that curcumin, a compound abundant in turmeric, can serve as a safe and effective natural remedy for depression.

Gioffre added that turmeric's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties alleviate anxiety by enhancing feel-good neurotransmitters like serotonin. This hormone not only reduces stress but also regulates mood and sleep.

5. Chamomile Tea

Chamomile tea, renowned for its soothing properties, serves as an effective remedy for alleviating symptoms of anxiety.

Different studies have underscored the benefits of chamomile tea, especially its efficacy in addressing both insomnia and relaxation. In one randomized trial, participants with anxiety experienced significant improvement in symptoms after 2-4 weeks of chamomile treatment.

Incorporating these nutrient-rich foods into the diet not only fosters mental resilience but also mitigates inflammation and stress, paving the way for improved overall well-being.

Naidoo said a holistic approach to nutrition does wonders to the mind, emphasizing the importance of wholesome, fiber-rich foods and healthy fats in combating anxiety and promoting emotional balance.