How nutrition affects stress
Good nutrition is an aspect of our health that we can control. Founded on healthy eating, good nutrition is an essential factor that helps us to stay healthy and active. Whereas poor nutrition can lead to stress, as well as tiredness and fatigue.
Unhealthy eating habits such as over or under-eating, not eating enough healthy fresh food, and consuming too many processed foods packed with salt, sugar, and high in fat or low in fibre take a toll on our health.
Lacking in essential nutrients, protein, carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, fibre, vitamins, and minerals, our bodies can begin to feel sluggish, as well as anxious and stressed as our cortisol levels are raised. This negatively impacts upon our daily health and well-being; reducing our ability to lead an enjoyable and active life.
Over time poor nutrition can increase the risk of developing significant healthcare problems and illnesses. Including high blood pressure, depression, high cholesterol, heart disease, strokes, osteoporosis, and some cancers.
That is why good nutrition is an essential element in achieving optimal health and well-being. It isn’t as hard as you think.
Here are 7 simple steps you can start today.
Each day enjoy a variety of healthy foods from the 5 food groups. In particular include foods good for lowering cortisol levels such as eggs, avocados, bananas, oranges, oysters, olive oil, salmon, spinach, and tuna.
Aim to eat 5 portions of fruit and vegetables every day.
Swap sugary drinks for fresh, clean tap water
Plan your meals ahead and shop for healthy ingredients
Enjoy eating your dinners with your family or friends around a table without any distractions such as the tv or mobile phones
Reduce eating processed meats, high-sugar food, and alcohol that have limited nutritional value and can raise cortisol levels.
Swap caffeine for decaf or herbal tea, such as Chamomile which can help relieve stress naturally.