Good Mood Food

Stress is an inescapable part of 21st century life. It’s everywhere and affects all of us at one time or another. Some people are better equipped to adapt and mediate the effects of stress while others are not. Too much stress over prolonged periods will wear you down emotionally and physically. Recognizing the symptoms of escalating stress which is your body’s reaction to real or perceived harm is important to your health and well-being. Situations in which you feel threatened in some way causes a chemical reaction in your body. The reaction is known as the “fight-or-flight” response. In an attempt to protect yourself your body responds with physical changes including increased heart rate, breathing and blood pressure as well as muscle tightening.

There are many symptoms of stress which vary from person to person. These symptoms can be emotional, cognitive, physical and behavioral. Knowing the signs of your body being over-taxed by stress is important. According to Webmd.com the most common symptoms are:

EMOTIONAL

Becoming easily agitated, frustrated, and moody, feeling overwhelmed, like you are losing control or need to take control, having difficulty relaxing and quieting your mind, feeling bad about yourself (low self-esteem), lonely, worthlessness, depression, avoiding others

PHYSICAL

Low energy, headache, upset stomach, digestive issues, including diarrhea, constipation and nausea, aches, pains, and tense muscles,

chest pain and rapid heartbeat, insomnia, frequent colds and infections, loss of sexual desire and/or ability, nervousness and shaking, ringing in the ear, cold or sweaty hands and feet, dry mouth and difficulty swallowing, clenched jaw and grinding teeth

COGNITIVE

Constant worrying, racing thoughts, forgetfulness and disorganization, inability to focus. poor judgment, being pessimistic or seeing only the negative side

BEHAVIORAL

Changes in appetite -- either not eating or eating too much, procrastinating and avoiding responsibilities, increased use of alcohol, drugs, or cigarettes, exhibiting more nervous behaviors

The long-term effects of unattended stress may be detrimental to your health. Addressing your concerns should always start with talking to a medical professional who will identify your needs and help you develop a treatment plan. But did you know that certain foods and beverages may actually help reduce your stress level? You can help your body by building a healthy diet of foods containing the nutrients which may have stress relieving qualities.  Here are the foods that top the list:

Matcha powder, Swiss chard, sweet potatoes, kimchi, artichokes, organ meats, eggs, shellfish, acerola cherry powder, fatty fish, parsley, garlic, tahini, sunflower seeds, broccoli, chickpeas, chamomile tea, blueberries