Unlocking Calm: Foods to Help You Stress Less

We're living in a time when many of us are experiencing stress, anxiety, and fatigue. All of this can take a toll on our bodies. During times of stress, you might notice symptoms like restlessness, a racing heart, concentration difficulties, headaches, or even chest pain.

The body reacts to stress in three stages:

First stage – The body becomes alert, and the nervous system releases adrenaline.

Second stage – Resistance, where the body attempts to cope with the threat by releasing stress hormones from the adrenal glands.

Third stage – This occurs when stress becomes chronic, causing damage to various systems. Sustained stress depletes energy and vitamins, leading to weariness and cumulative fatigue, eventually impairing the immune system and encouraging disease development.

How can we cope with stress?

Our demanding lifestyles make it impossible to avoid stress, but it's crucial to recognize it when it happens and address it properly to reduce potential harm.

Physical activity is an excellent way to relieve stress, neutralizing accumulated stress hormones. Nutritional foods can also mitigate the effects of stress by boosting the immune system.

Which foods ease stress?

Kiwi tops the list of foods rich in Vitamin C. Research indicates that Vitamin C reduces stress hormones and strengthens immunity.

Oats are high in B vitamins, known for their ability to balance the nervous system. Oatmeal is also rich in fiber that breaks down slowly, prompting the brain to produce more serotonin, which reduces stress and improves mood.

Avocado is also packed with B vitamins. A deficiency in these vitamins is directly linked to stress and nervousness. Avocados offer numerous other health benefits, including essential fatty acids, potassium, iron, and more.

Leafy greens of all kinds are rich in magnesium, a mineral that aids in achieving a sense of calm and relaxation. They're also high in dietary fibers, contributing to body cleansing and energy boosting.

Dark chocolate – only dark, no other kind will do. It should contain no less than 70% cocoa solids. Such chocolate helps boost the brain's levels of antidepressants, like serotonin and dopamine. It's recommended to consume two or three squares a day.

Zohara Shavit is a Naturopath N.D and an iridology expert with years of experience in treatment, consultation, and workshop facilitation. To book a workshop at no cost, call 073-2221290