10 pressure-busting foods

Nutrition expert Patrick Holford, author of Natural Highs: Chill - 25 Ways To Beat Stress, says many foods contain vital compounds to help the body deal with the pressures of life.

Seeds and nuts

Sunflower and pumpkin seeds are packed with magnesium, known to fight stress and beat insomnia.

Valerian

A herbal medicine available in health-food shops, it's also known as nature's Valium because of its powerful calming effects.

Onions and garlic

These humble kitchen vegetables stimulate production of gamma aminobutyric acid - a vital neurotransmitter.

Lettuce

Thought to promote sleep because it contains tiny amounts of an opium-related substance called hyoscyarnin.

Strawberries

Packed with more vitamin C than oranges or kiwi fruit, they help the immune system cope with stress.

Wholemeal bread

Contains chromium, which helps to keep blood sugar levels in balance. Also found in potatoes, green peppers, yeast and oysters.

Fruit

The vitamins in fruit help convert sugar from other foods into energy, vital for beating stress.

Porridge

Forget about that breakfast croissant, eat porridge instead. Oats contain slow-releasing carbohydrates that keep blood sugar levels stable.

Oysters

The richest source of zinc, which the body needs to ward off anxiety and depression.

Camomile tea

Known for its relaxing, sleep-inducing properties.