Stress can negatively affect your body in so many ways.
Neurotransmitters and hormones react to sugar, for example. It increases their levels and makes you feel better, at least temporarily, but it’s cyclical. That feeling goes away, and you need to eat more in order to feel better again.
Foods to reduce stress and improve mood
Hormone levels can be affected by what you eat. So certain foods and nutrients can help reduce stress, prevent blood sugar spikes and improve your mood:
- Serotonin, a feel-good hormone, is increased by eating carbohydrates, but stick to whole grains and complex carbs to release it consistently throughout the day.
- Cortisol, a stress hormone, is raised by high sodium and processed foods like chips and crackers. To help reduce cortisol levels, munch on unsalted nuts and carrots, peppers or cucumbers with hummus. Magnesium, found in nuts, dark leafy greens and beans, can help keep cortisol levels low and prevent headaches and fatigue.
- Galanin, a neurotransmitter whose levels tend to rise in the afternoon, causes those cravings for high-fat, high-calorie sweet or salty snacks. Skip that trip to the vending machine and take a brisk walk instead. Physical activity reduces galanin levels, helping you to choose a healthier afternoon snack.
The do’s and don’ts to control holiday stress
Do eat these foods when you feel stressed:
- Whole grains (oatmeal, brown rice, whole-grain pastas) help to stabilize blood sugars
- Milk (contains tryptophan, which the body converts to serotonin)
- Green tea
- Dark chocolate (at least 70 percent cacao)
- Salmon, tuna, chia seeds, walnuts (Omega 3s reduce inflammation)
- Red peppers, oranges and other foods high in vitamin C
Don’t eat these foods when you feel stressed:
- Caffeinated coffee or tea
- Spicy foods
- Energy drinks
- Cookies, cakes pies, candies
- Sugary drinks
- Deep-fried anything (cheeseburgers, French fries, etc.)
- Processed foods (high in sodium and additives)
During the holiday season, use these smart food strategies and other stress-relieving methods — such as exercise and meditation — to help you ring in the New Year feeling sassy, not sluggish.