- April is tax month, and along with taxes comes stress. Stress management can be a powerful tool for wellness. There is evidence demonstrating that people who experience too much stress and pressure can be more than just a mood killer. People who are under constant stress are more vulnerable to colds, high blood pressure, heart disease, and even diabetes. There are many ways to cope with stress; my favorite way is to balance the fuel intake of our body. Here are a list of some foods that will help you to chill out during April.
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- Oatmeal- a warm bowl can actually boost your level of serotonin, a calming hormone. During April for breakfast try 1c cooked oatmeal for breakfast, add in 1 tbsp of Agave nectar for flavor.
- Oranges- studies suggest that vitamin C can reduce level of stress hormones while strengthening the immune system. Try adding in 6 oz of Orange juice and handful of almonds during a stress full day as a great afternoon snack.
- Spinach- Popeye never let stress get him down- maybe it was all the magnesium in the spinach he ate. Magnesium helps regulate cortisol levels. When magnesium levels drop headaches and fatigue may come about, compounding the effects of stress and setting back your fight against it. At lunch try a spinach salad to boost your magnesium levels. If you are not a spinach eater try some cooked soybeans or salmon- both are also high in magnesium
- Berries – they are packed with particularly high levels of antioxidants known as polyphenols. These little “power-houses” will aid in the protection of oxidative stress of the body. Try adding in a handful of berries to your spinach salad this month, or even a side of berries and yogurt for a great nighttime snack.
- Once stress does hit don’t forget to take care of yourself. The best way to counter act a stressful day is moving!!! Aerobic exercise increases oxygen circulation and produces endorphins- chemical that make you feel happy.
- If you have questions about healthy eating or balanced nutrition please ask, or if you have a particular topic you would like more information about let me know.
Adrien Paczosa is a Registered and Licensed Dietitian practicing in Austin, Texas and the surrounding counties.
She is the owner and founder of I Live Well Nutrition her Dietitian practice which started in 2007 and serves clients in the Austin, Texas area in two locations. Fearless Practitioners, the division of her business that offers training to dietitians and wellness professionals.