Foods to Consume During Times of High Stress
by Jennifer Barnes, Holistic Nutritionist
Stress can actually be a good thing, and we need a bit of stress in our lives to keep us going. It helps us get up in the morning, stay motivated to get things done. In these ways, stress can be good. The problem happens when we have too much stress and the body flies into “fight” mode and releases a hormone called cortisol. Large amounts of this hormone are a key factor in many health issues. Some days you’re pumping too much cortisol, making you feel anxious and irritated.
This is why it’s so important to learn ways to reduce the stress in our lives, and diet can significantly help support the body during times of high stress.
Here’s a few foods that can help:
Blueberries have many health-promoting phytochemicals that help balance the body during times of high stress. This superfood contains anthocyanins and pterostilbene, which are antioxidants. These antioxidants can also help protect the brain and reduce cognitive decline.
The liver is the body’s main detoxification organ. It detoxes out excess hormones like cortisol, which is why it’s super important to support the liver during times of high stress. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli especially help the liver’s detoxification process.
Magnesium is a mineral that helps with mood and better sleep by relaxing the muscles, making it an obvious solution for stress reduction. Sources of magnesium include pumpkin seeds, almonds, spinach, bananas, tofu, avocadoes – and yes, even dark chocolate!
Fermented Cabbage like Sauerkraut and Kimchi
Probiotics, found in supplements and fermented foods, support the adrenals and help manage cortisol levels. Fermented cabbage in the forms of kimchi and sauerkraut serve as effective probiotics. Sauerkraut is actually known to contain even more lactobacillus (“good” bacteria) than yogurt.
Ultimately, it’s super important to consume essential nutrients to support the body, especially during times of high stress. In addition to these, don’t forget protein, like eggs, lean meats and poultry, fish and shellfish, nuts and seeds, dairy, legumes and fortified soy beverages. Salmon in particular is an excellent source of protein and good fat.
For more tips about stress and its link to nutrition, visit www.jbarnesliving.com.