(NaturalNews) Whether it's sitting in traffic or dealing with mounting frustrations in the workplace, everyone feels angry from time to time. However, exhibiting too much of this strong emotion, while it may seem to be a feel-good outlet, can negatively impact health. Anger is linked to muscle tightness, flushed skin, stress and increases in both blood pressure and heart rate. Psychologically, many times anger turns into resentment, which leads to holding a grudge for long periods of time, harboring unforgiving feelings which can even cause depression. (1)

Clearly, avoiding situations that evoke anger is beneficial, as is getting proper amounts of exercise and if possible, practicing relaxation techniques. But anger can also be managed by the foods that people eat. Furthermore, certain foods can actually trigger bouts of anger.

Here's a closer look at the connection between foods and anger.

Food habits that trigger feelings of anger

Nicolette Pace, a nutritionist, says that carbs are often to blame for contributing to feelings of anger. "They don't give your body what you need to cope with day-to-day stresses," she said. Furthermore, "Deficiencies in nutrients, magnesium or manganese, vitamin C, or some B vitamins may make a person hyperactive towards a stressor, a short fuse so to speak." (2)

She's found that, compared to individuals who eat healthy foods like fruits, leafy greens and beans, those who consume packaged or processed foods are irritated more easily. Unbalanced diets filled with processed foods and many nutrient deficiencies have been connected with having more violent and aggressive tendencies. (2)

Foods that help control stress and anger

Several foods help keep anger at bay.

For example, kiwis have a high vitamin C content, an antioxidant known to fight stress, as do leafy greens. Leafy greens also contain magnesium, a nutrient responsible for relaxing muscles and reducing anxiety. (1)

Coconut milk is also a good food source that helps lower stress levels and regulate blood sugar levels. In fact, one study found that spouses who consumed this milk and had lowered glucose levels as a result were less likely to lash out at their significant other. (1)

Other foods that help reduce stress and therefore control anger include turkey, almonds, sweet potatoes, dark chocolate and blueberries. (3)

Sources:

(1) http://wakeup-world.com

(2) http://boston.cbslocal.com

(3) http://www.naturalnews.com

http://science.naturalnews.com

About the author:
Raw Michelle is a natural health blogger and researcher, sharing her passions with others, using the Internet as her medium. She discusses topics in a straight forward way in hopes to help people from all walks of life achieve optimal health and well-being. She has authored and published hundreds of articles on topics such as the raw food diet and green living in general. >>> Click here to see more by Michelle