DeStress Your Mess - What to Eat During Stressful Times




eat plenty of fruits and vegetables when under stress 

One out of 10 Women surveyed by healthywomen.org, say they grap the potato chips, ice cream, crackers ,cookies and alcohol when under stress.  While these foods might taste great especially during stressful times, they are a BIG no-no!  In fact eating these kinds of foods can actually increase the feelings of stress and also adversely impact your health.   

The foods listed below are great healthy alternatives to eat during stress.  They are full of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients to fortify your immune system, keep your neurotransmitters healthy, and positively impact your overall health.  Make sure you add them as a stable in your diet...especially when you find yourself STRESSED!
 

FOODS THAT WILL HELP REDUCE STRESS

 
Oranges
A German study in   Psychopharmacology   found that vitamin C helps reduce stress and return blood pressure and cortisol to normal levels after a stressful situation. Vitamin C is also well-known for boosting your immune system which gets depleted when you are stressed.


Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes can be particularly stress-reducing because they can satisfy the urge you get for carbohydrates and sweets when you are under a great deal of stress. They are packed full of beta-carotene and other vitamins, and the fiber helps your body to process the carbohydrates in a slow and steady manner.  


Dried Apricots
Apricots are rich in magnesium, which is a stress-buster and a natural muscle relaxant as well.  


Almonds, Pistachios & Walnuts
Almonds are packed with B and E vitamins, which help boost your immune system, and walnuts and pistachios help lower blood pressure.  

Turkey
Turkey contains an amino acid called L-tryptophan. This amino acid triggers the release of serotonin, which is a feel-good brain chemical. This is the reason why many people who eat turkey feel relaxed, or even tired, after eating it. L-Tryptophan has a documented calming effect.  

Spinach
A deficiency in magnesium can cause migraine headaches and a feeling of fatigue. One cup of spinach provides 40 percent of your daily needs for magnesium.  


Salmon
Diets high in omega-3 fatty acids protect against heart disease. A study from   Diabetes & Metabolism   found that omega-3s keep the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline from peaking.  


Avocados
The monounsaturated fats and potassium in avocados help lower blood pressure. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute says that one of the best ways to lower blood pressure is to consume enough potassium (avocados have more than bananas).  

Green Vegetables
Broccoli, kale, and other dark green vegetables are powerhouses of vitamins that help replenish our bodies in times of stress.   


 FREE Subscription to Wellness Woman 40 and Beyond E-Magazine- Mind,Body,Spirit E-Magazine for Women over 40

Enhanced by Zemanta

Comments

Popular Posts