5 Ways You Can Beat Stress With Good Nutrition
As you sit in front of the TV, your hand in the Dorito bag, you immediately feel better.
Or even worse, maybe you're being yelled at by the engineering department and the giant popcorn bag is screaming your name.
I'll happily admit chips are my kryptonite (did I just coin a Superman term?)
You often use food to make yourself feel better, but usually the foods you choose wreak havoc on your I-want-to-be-healthy life.
Adrenaline is produced in times of intense stress and it gives you a sudden burst of energy. After the stressful situation passes, your blood-sugar level drop and you become the tyrant of the pantry.
Your first intention is to grab the Dorito bag, but slow down their killer and breathe.
Take these tips and break the bad reaching for anything habit.
You can beat stress with good nutrition
The foods I'm getting ready to discuss... drum roll please... are known to reduce anxiety and help you manage yourself during stressful situations.
Avocados: High in delicious, saturating fat, avocados are a must in the stress busting arsenal. These little guys are rich in stress-relieving B vitamins and high in monounsaturated fat and potassium, which helps lower blood pressure. So, put your heart back in your shirt.
Asparagus: Depression has been linked to low levels of folic acid and may result in feelings of irritability, depression, and brain fog, as well as insomnia. Asparagus is one vegetable that boosts this nutrient. You can fit it in to any meal.
Blueberries: When we're stressed our bodies need antioxidants to help repair and protect our cells. Blueberries are small in nature but they pack a powerful punch in the antioxidant and Vitamin C aisle. No, a blueberry pie doesn't count. Try this recipe.
Almonds: They may be small but almonds are rich in Vitamin B2 and E. Both of these nutrients help immune system function during times of stress. All you need is a quarter of a cup and toss them in with your blueberries.
Spinach: Get Popeye out of your head, this little leafy creature deserves a lot more credit than a cartoon. Spinach is packed with magnesium, the mineral that helps you regulate cortisol levels. It also promotes a sense of well-being.
HABITS: Okay, you caught me. I put an extra 6th one in here. In stressful situations research suggests that you reform back to your normal habits, which typically are unhealthy habits. You must break the bad habits and focus your efforts on a healthy, energetic lifestyle. Your body, mind and stress levels will thank you.
It's crazy how we can revert back to poor nutrition when stressed when good nutrition is a great ally to help overcome stress.
From now on get your hand out of the drawer, drop the Snickers bar and whip up an awesome snack with the ingredients I talked about.
What's your worst eating habit when stressed?
Find this article helpful? Catch my latest updates on health and wellness related articles. Visit my website by clicking here.
