If you’re stressed out, you’re in the same boat as most other Americans feeling the added anxiety of the wild economy on top of all the little things— from schoolwork and homework to issues with relatives and friends— that make our blood pressure rise every day.

Fortunately, many foods have properties that can take the edge off of your stressful day. Add some of the following good eats to your diet, and reap the benefits.

•Almonds are packed with vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin E, magnesium and zinc, a combination that helps increase your production of serotonin, which improves your mood and relieves stress. A handful of almonds a day goes a long, long way.

•Fish, particularly the oily kind like salmon and mackerel, is packed with vitamins and minerals, including those all-important B vitamins mentioned above. Try to eat three portions of oily fish per week.

•Wholegrain pasta is extremely tasty and nutritionally very sound. White foods like white bread, rice, potatoes and pasta— so-called simple carbs— spike your insulin levels, leaving you prone to sugar crashes later in the day. (Simple carbs also help you pile on the pounds.) However, wholegrain foods, such as wholegrain breads, rice and pasta, have a slow carb effect. This means the body digests them more slowly, ensuring your energy levels do not spike and crash, keeping you happier for a longer period of time.

Other mood-enhancing foods to enjoy include blueberries, broccoli and lean beef.

PeopleJam is a leading online self-improvement resource. For additional insight on how to nip stress in the bud, check out the related article at www.peoplejam.com/blogs/ten-great-ways-bust-stress.