Evaluating The Relationship Between Diet And Stress
An understanding of the link between what we eat and stress is vital whenit comes to improving our general state of health.
Over the years there have been many studies into the benefits of good nutrition and, like most things in life, these studies frequently contradict each other leaving us wondering where the truth really lies. In general however there is agreement that a healthy and balanced diet plays an important role in lowering stress levels.
There is also general agreement that, when a diet is not very well balanced, supplements can be helpful. As an example, serotonin is a chemical produced in the brain which can induce calm and, in the case of a poor diet, taking a supplement that helps the brain to produce serotonin can help the body in combating stress.
Timing is however important and, because serotonin levels are usually naturally raised in the morning and lower in the late afternoon, you can assist your body by either by taking supplements in the late afternoon or by enjoying a late afternoon snack which will assist the body's natural production of serotonin. Try a baked potato or some pretzels, both of which are healthy and low in fat.
For a few individuals excessive eating, especially of foods that are high in fat, is the answer to stress. However, high fat foods tend to slow down or inhibit serotonin levels and so frequently have just the opposite effect to that which you want.
Another side effect of excessive eating is that of weight gain and, as an increasing number of people are finding nowadays, being overweight is a sure route to stress and even depression. The answer therefore is both a sensible, balanced diet and a reasonable amount of exercise.
Sensible eating and exercise will have the double benefits of both lowering the production of stress-inducing chemicals by the body and of improving the way you look and feel, which will undoubtedly lift your mood and provide you with a sound barrier against stress.
One other thing to watch out for is the habit many of us have of missing meals. When you find yourself under stress you will frequently find that this depresses your appetite and it is very easy to start skipping meals. Whether you are stressed or not, set yourself a regular routine for mealtimes and then stick to it.
Additionally, try to make mealtimes into a 'break' in your day and leave your problems on one side while you are enjoying a meal. Use this as a time, specifically set aside to relax and for focusing your attention on the good things in life. You will almost certainly find that when you have finished your meal the world around you will be much calmer.
About the Author
For more information about stress, including such things as stress symptoms, and for a wealth of stress articles, please visit Stress-Relief-And-Anxiety-Relievers.com
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