Stress is necessary and a normal physiological response, but long-term, chronic stress can eventually take its toll on the body causing a whole host of health issues. While it would be best to eat healthy during times of stress, we tend to do the complete opposite and opt for the take-out, convenient, packaged, and often not-so-healthy foods and/or drinks.
Because many of these fast foods pale in comparison to alive, fresh, whole foods they are devoid of many important nutrients which can help keep stress in check. Organic, unprocessed, whole foods naturally contain the vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and phytonutrients our bodies need during these tough and demanding times to nourish our brains and bodies to be able to withstand any stressors.
Here are some simple nutritional and lifestyle tips to help your body be able to deal with stress more easily:
- Eat whole, fresh, organic (wherever possible) veggies and fruits, grains, high-quality meats and fish, and healthy fats
- Avoid processed and refined foods
- Stay away from “bad fats” (highly refined/processed, hydrogenated, trans-fats, anything deep-fried)
- Drink plenty of water and herbal teas (non-caffeinated)
- Limit intake of sugar, alcohol, and caffeine
- Do not skip meals
- Chew your food well
- Get plenty of sleep
- Exercise
- Participate in some leisurely activity that brings you pleasure
Eat These Foods (see nutrients they contain, all of which are important for managing stress):
Nutrient Food Source
Magnesium Swiss chard, spinach, pumpkin seeds, broccoli
B vitamins (except B-12) Tuna, asparagus, spinach, nutritional yeast (also
has B-12)
Vitamin C Bell peppers, parsley, broccoli, strawberries,
lemon juice, kale, kiwi
Omega-3 fatty acids Salmon, scallops, sardines, tuna, walnuts
L-Tryptophan Turkey, beef, eggs, cottage cheese, chicken
Resources:
Mateljan, G. The World’s Healthiest Foods. George Mateljan Foundation. 2007
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Please note:
I am a nutrition educator/consultant and not a physician. As such, I do not diagnose or treat disease, rather I support lifestyle balance and health with my work. Please understand that any information provided on the relationship between nutrition and health is not meant to replace competent medical treatment for any health problem or condition.
Mike is a holistic nutritionist that helps people feel more optimistic about their health and wellness through changes in diet and lifestyle shifts.
He has authored posts and articles featured on MarthaStewart.com, today.com, and iVillage.com.