42 Calm-Boosting Foods: Eat Your Way to Less Stress

24. Black Garlic: The Fermented Antioxidant Powerhouse

Garlic is already a well-known health booster, but black garlic takes it to another level. This aged, fermented version of garlic contains nearly twice the antioxidants of regular garlic, making it a powerful weapon against oxidative stress. Black garlic is particularly high in S-allyl cysteine, a compound known to lower cortisol (the stress hormone) and support brain health. It also promotes better circulation, ensuring that your brain gets the oxygen and nutrients it needs to function optimally during stressful situations. With its rich, slightly sweet, umami-packed flavor, black garlic can be used as a spread, in sauces, or even blended into dressings.