FOODS to FIGHT stress
MANY times when we’re stressed, our relief comes through comfort food — a tub of ice-cream, frozen yoghurt or very sweet and delectable chocolate. But while the comfort will come for a short period, the long-term result is weight gain.
According to Dr Ryan Halsall, the stressful events, whether big or small, will cause our cortisol levels to rise and increase our food cravings, which are usually for comfort foods.
“These foods don’t necessarily make you calmer and the more consumed, the more fat you will accumulate, especially around the abdominal area,” he said.
But Dr Halsall said instead of seeking comfort in sweetened carbohydrates packed with calories, there are healthier foods that can help to fight stress and keep weight off, resulting in a healthier you.
These include:
1. Vitamin C
According to Dr Halsall, vitamin C is useful in combating stress. ” The consumption results in lower blood pressure and cortisol (stress hormone) levels after a stressful situation,” he said.
2. Zinc
Dr Halsall said zinc deficiency is linked to anxiety and stress; however, the body cannot store zinc, so we must have a daily intake.
3. Chocolate
“Most people eat chocolate to improve their mood,” Dr Halsall said. However, he advised that unsweetened chocolate is a better option. “Chocolate gives a good supply of antioxidants known as flavanols, which come from the cocoa beans used to make chocolate. Flavanols help to reduce high blood pressure, decrease cholesterol and boost circulation,” he explained.
4. Oatmeal
The chemical that makes us feel good is known as serotonin, and according to Dr Halsall, oatmeal helps to release serotonin. “Serotonin is a chemical that boosts your overall mood and it also has antioxidant properties,” he stated.
5. Garlic
“Garlic is rich in antioxidants that help reduce heart disease and boost your immune system, which stress might have weakened,” he said.
6. Green tea
Dr Halsall said green tea, used by some people for its weight loss properties, contains caffeine and also theanine, which can boost mental performance. “In addition to being a good detox, it is a brain booster, which improves your mental performance,” he said.
