Archive for August 2008
Foods that Support You During Stress
Posted on Wednesday, August 13, 2008 at 10:17 AM by T.Smith, M.S. the site author">T.Smith, M.S.
Chronic stress and acute stress can take it toll on us and has shown to tax our nutrition status. We are all under stress, but when it begins to cause us to shutdown, then there is a major problem. If we have experienced long-term high stresss (chronic stress) or a major event, such as loss job, divorce, death (acute stress), then our nutrition status depletes.
There are nutrtional foods that can help us get through stress and have shown to help us emotionally during those times.
Vitamin C has shown that it can reduce blood levels of stress related hormones. Normally 1,000 - 1,500 mg per day is appropriate for otherwise healthy individual to deal with stressful situation. Too much Vitamin C can lead to diarrhea, a sign to reduce level. Here are a list of foods that are considered high to exceptional sources of Vitamin C.
- Kiwi
- Lemons and Limes
- Mango
- Honeydew
- Cantalope
- Tangerine / Mandarine
- Grapefruit
- Guava
Omega 3 Fatty Acids can assist in reducing explosive and aggressive behavior. Studies have shown that defiencies in Omega 3 Fatty acids can contribute to aggressive behaviors. Daily supplementation for 90 days of 1.5 grams of DHA may prevent an increase in aggression. Here are your natural sources:
- cold water fish
- spinach
- seaweed
- soybeans
- Flaxseeds
- Pumpkin Seeds
- Walnuts
- Dark Green Vegatables
Tyrosine levels decline with stress. Tyrosine is used to produce hormones and neurotransmitters. To maintain mental clarity and capacity, 150 mg per 2.2 lbs can be taken occasionaly prior to stressful activity. It is recommended to take it in two seperate doses 90 minutes apart.
- Soy Products
- Poultry
- Peanuts
- Almonds
- Avocados
- Fish
- Milk
- Yogurt
- Lima Beans
- Pumpkin Seeds
These natural stress support foods should be used in compliment to your diet that is low in simple sugars and processed foods.