STRESS BUSTING SNACKS!
STRESS BUSTING SNACKS!
Snacking can help to balance blood sugar levels and regulate cravings but did you know it can also help to reduce your stress levels? Below are 4 nutrients with featured foods to help with reducing stress hormones and chronic fatigue!
Stress is a big deal and many of us tend to overlook it!
Like the frog in a pot of boiling water, when stress slowly increases many of us just keep rolling stopping to think about what are realistic expectations and how to self prioritize for self care and optimal health. So if you are over stressed there are food-as-medicine approaches for keeping your stress levels in check!
VITAMIN C: Bell Peppers
Vitamin C is stored highest in the adrenal glands and required in making cortisol. When the adrenal glands are depleted from vitamin C they tend to go haywire and over produce this powerful hormone which can lead to increased blood pressure and belly fat!
Aim to eat 1-2 vitamin C containing foods per day like 1 cup bell pepper slices with 1/4 cup hummus!
OMEGA 3’s: Salmon
Psychological stress increases inflammatory chemical release, leading to an immune system cascade of pro-inflammatory compounds. Omega-3s have anti-inflammatory influence and thus can reduce the circulating inflammatory chemicals, reducing the downstream of stress. Optimal omega-3 intake can also combat depression and reduce cravings!
Aim for 1 serving of Omega 3 rich food day, try this Wild Salmon Dip!
FOLIC ACID: Leafy Green
Folic acid deficiency has been seen higher in those with depression and anxiety. Eating foods rich in folate aids in reducing homocysteine, a marker of inflammation in the blood vessels and increases Sam-E, which aids in production and expression of feel good neurotransmitters.
Aim for 5+ cups of leafy greens per day
FLAVINOIDS: Cacao
Having 20x the antioxidants of berries, cacao is rich in theobromine and other polyphenol antioxidants that increase serotonin and feel good chemicals in the brain leading to a relaxed state. Also cacao provides minerals including chromium to aid with blood sugar regulation and magnesium to relax smooth muscles and reduce blood pressure.
Try our Raw Walnut Fudge Recipe for a mindful indulgence that will keep blood sugars stable!
