Recipes for lower cortisol

Busting stress one bowl at a time.️

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In a Nutshell Cortisol, aka the “stress hormone,” seems like a scary buzzword on the internet nowadays. Really, though, it’s just a part of your body’s natural response to perceived threats. Everyone might have high cortisol at some point from stress, certain medications, or an underlying health condition. But consistently high levels can cause a range of symptoms, like weight gain, acne, headaches, severe fatigue, and high blood pressure. Did you know that your diet may play an important role in keeping your cortisol levels lower? Keep reading to see which foods and recipes could reduce those stress hormones.   • 6 possible causes of brain fog   • Breast cancer treatment options by stage   • NASH-friendly diet tips: Foods to eat and avoid Be well, Morgan Mandriota Newsletter Editor, Healthline   Written by Morgan Mandriota May 18, 2026 • 2 min read

what’s got us buzzing What to eat to manage your cortisol 🥬 Magnesium can help reduce cortisol levels, regulate the nervous system, and support muscle function. Foods with magnesium include leafy greens, nuts, and whole grains. Recipes with magnesium-rich foods: Curried avocado quinoa bowls Almond blueberry cookies Mushroom, spinach, and barley soup Orange pistachio parfait 🐟 Omega-3 fatty acids are known to support cardiovascular health. Some studies have also found that they lower morning cortisol levels in nurses and midlife adults. Fish are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, including anchovies, salmon, sardines, oysters, and mussels. Recipes rich in omega-3s: Salmon and asparagus with lemon butter dill sauce Baja-style cod tacos with shredded cabbage and tartar sauce Tuscan poached cod with side salad Kimchi and hot smoked salmon bowls with broccoli 🫐 Antioxidants may also help lower cortisol levels and oxidative stress in the body. Fruits and veggies are great sources of antioxidants. More specifically, apples, berries, tomatoes, pecans, and walnuts. Recipes high in antioxidants: Berry basil kombucha slushie Carrot ginger smoothie Berry cherry parfait Sauteed apples with pecan crumble While these foods can help reduce cortisol levels, diet is only one element of stress management. As always, it’s important to speak with a doctor about how to best manage your health. MORE FOODS FOR LOW CORTISOL 🪷 Psst: This is a snapshot from day 3 of our 14-Day Stress Reset. Keep reading to learn about this new series and how to follow along!       HEALTHLINE RESOURCE You deserve to chill       Join Healthline’s 14-Day Stress Reset Challenge Introducing: Our latest content series dedicated to managing stress! Over 2 weeks, you’ll discover simple ways to reduce your stressload, build healthier habits, and feel more balanced when things get hectic. Ready to join us? Check out the full challenge details below, then download our free calendar to stay on track. GET STARTED Every product we recommend has gone through either Healthline’s or Optum Now’s vetting processes. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline and Optum Now are owned by RVO Health.           health stories you need What we’re reading next 😁 The best teeth whitening products, tested by our team. What we recommend, and which ones fell short. ✨ 5 DIY body scrub recipes. Easy to make with simple ingredients like brown sugar, coffee, and sea salt. 👀 Can your gut predict Parkinson’s? A new study weighs in. 🍳 Egg whites vs. whole eggs. Let’s crack open the myths around their nutrition facts.           Until next time, Take care of yourself, and we’ll see you again soon!     This edition was powered by blueberries.   View in browser Did a friend send you this email? Subscribe here. To see all newsletters, click here. Privacy    |    Unsubscribe We may feature your messages to our inbox within our content. Please do not provide any personal identifiable information. Replies may be edited for length and clarity. For more, see our Privacy Policy. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Healthline does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and should not be used as a substitute for medical advice from a healthcare professional. Healthline encourages you to make any treatment decisions with your healthcare professional. Every product we recommend has gone through either Healthline’s or Optum Now’s vetting processes. If you buy through links on this page, we may receive a small commission or other tangible benefit. Healthline has sole editorial control over this newsletter. Potential uses for the products listed here are not health claims made by the manufacturers. Healthline and Optum Now are owned by RVO Health. © 2026 RVO Health 1101 Red Ventures Drive Fort Mill, SC 29707