A triple chocolate muffin and a double shot latte might be calling your name after a stressful morning, but sadly, that’s not going to help you chill out.
Grabbing fast food and drinking cup after cup of coffee is a sure way to send stress levels though the roof.
Follow these easy food hacks from healthy nutritionist Dr. Carina Norris instead. They should help you eat yourself calm.
1. Keep your selenium levels up
‘Low levels are associated with anxiety and low mood. Get it from Brazil nuts, oily fish – such as salmon and mackerel – and offal. If you’re deficient in selenium (though not if your levels are okay), a supplement could help – ask your GP for advice.
2. Get your vitamin C quota
In a German study, people who took part in a high-stress task and took vitamin C had significantly lower levels of the stress hormone cortisol and lower blood pressure than those who did not get the vitamin supplement. Citrus fruits, peppers, broccoli and Brussels sprouts are good sources.
3. Chew away
Studies have found that the mechanical action of chewing gum helps relieves stress and tension by loosening a tense jaw. Why not swap gum for crunchy raw vegetables, such as celery or carrot sticks, which could also do this job, and with added nutritional benefits.
4. Brew up
Research from University College London suggests phytochemicals in regular black tea (as opposed to green) could help reduce blood levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Herbal varieties like chamomile can also do the trick.
5. Never miss a meal
Skipping meals makes it harder to maintain stable blood sugar levels and keep your mood on an even keel. But don’t reach for sugar: research from the University of Michigan, US, found that high levels of stress hormones are more likely to lead to binge eating sugary treats than lower levels of the hormones. Try having a couple of oatcakes with low-fat cream cheese to give you a long lasting energy boost.
Stuck for foodie inspiration? Check out this selenium-rich salmon recipe
Photography: mindbodygreen.com | Pinterest