FIGHT STRESS EATING

FIGHT STRESS EATING

How do you cope with stress? Do you reach out for chocolate or ice-cream or a donut?

We all turn to food during celebrations, parties and hunger. But also many of us turn to food when we are stressed. This will definitely make you feel good for a while but as soon as this feeling wears out. The only thing you’re left with is weight. Extra Weight!! Stressful events don’t have to be work or house work, just the daily hassles of life can cause cortisol (stress hormone) to rise which leads to food craving and then weight gain. So the next time you’re stressed, think of foods that will make you relaxed. We're not talking about stuffing yourself with your typical go-to comfort foods but with healthy wholesome foods.

Indulge in Dark chocolate

The "chocolate cure" is real. Eating dark chocolate is one of the most important tools in reducing stress. Dark chocolate has been found to increase mood by increasing serotonin and endorphin levels in the brain.

Go nutty

Include a handful of pistachios, cashews, almonds, walnuts, flax seeds, chia seeds and pumpkin seeds when stressed. This combo is a powerhouse package of fiber, antioxidants, and unsaturated fatty acids, all of which lower blood pressure. Omega-3 essential fatty acids in walnuts has reduced depression rates, the selenium in cashews and almonds are shown to elevate mood, and tryptophan in pumpkin seeds may help the brain make serotonin.

Bowl of Dahilicous

It’s a great source of protein and calcium, which your body needs to release feel-good neurotransmitters. Add fresh berries for sweetness and a mega-dose of stress-busting antioxidants and immunity-boosting vitamin C.