Stress eating is extremely common, yet often the food we reach for at these peak tension times is the last thing we should be eating. Munching on some chocolate, chips, or even a tub of ice cream might make us feel good in the moment, but in the long term will only worsen our stress. In fact, these heart-racing moments are when healthy eating is most important to getting us back to a better mental and emotional state. So how can we eat the stress away?
First Thing’s First: How Does Our Food Impact Our Stress Levels?
When we are stressed, our body responds not just mentally, but physically as well. Our muscles get tighter, blood sugar spikes and our hearts feel like they are beating out of our chest. This is due to the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline working on overdrive. This can result in a sensitive stomach that, when filled with the wrong foods can create some undesirable reactions.
Avocados
If you haven’t already added this superfood to your diet, you’re missing out on countless benefits, stress-reduction being one of them. The B6 in avocados helps to improve the nervous system, which is affected during stress. Additionally, avocados pack the potassium, which helps to lower blood pressure and keep your heart healthy!
Salmon
The omega-3s found in fish are proven to improve your mood and promote heart health. This is extremely important for people with chronic stress, for long-term excessive cortisol can weaken and damage the cardiovascular system.
Broccoli
We typically think of oranges as the vitamin C powerhouse, but broccoli actually contains twice as much! Vitamin C is helpful both with reducing cortisol levels and strengthening the immune system. This means no more getting sick every time you’ve had a stressful week!
Edamame
While foods high in fat are often the most comforting, they can later make you feel worse because they are difficult to digest. To get a delicious snack that is both appetizing and healthy, try steamed edamame. This food has numerous nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and vitamins B and D, all of which help your body produce serotonin. This hormone helps you to feel energized and positive, so you can feel good about reaching for a handful!
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