Nutrition tips to manage stress at Christmas time
Stay on top of stress this festive season!
I love Christmas but I have a feeling I'm not alone in finding the lead-up to the festive season a bit overwhelming at times. Between shopping for gifts, organising social events, juggling finances and finishing up school and work for the holidays, life can be a bit stressful!
A well-nourished body is better equipped to handle life's challenges so if you find your stress levels increasing at this time of year, try incorporating these powerful stress-busting nutrients into your diet.
Magnesium-rich foods
Magnesium
Magnesium is required for energy production and it also helps to stabilise mood through its role in the production of calming neurotransmitters
Sources: wholegrains, leafy green vegetables, beans, legumes, brown rice, seeds, nuts, peanut butter, avocado
Supplements: magnesium glycinate / amino acid chelate / citrate (avoid magnesium oxide)
Omega-3 rich foods
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids reduce stress-induced inflammation, lower cortisol levels and improve mood and cognition
Sources: fatty fish, flaxseeds, walnuts
Supplements: fish oil, krill oil, algal oil, flaxseed oil
Sources of B vitamins
B Vitamins
B vitamins are important for converting food into energy and supporting healthy brain and nervous system function.
Sources: whole grains, eggs, legumes, nuts, seeds and lean meats.
Supplements: B complex (look for a quality supplement with folinic acid rather than folic acid)
Vitamin C rich foods
Vitamin C
Vitamin C supports the adrenal glands and reduces stress-induced cortisol release
Sources: citrus fruits, papaya, strawberries, kiwi fruit, capsicum, broccoli, spinach and tomatoes
Supplements: ascorbic acid, sodium ascorbate, calcium ascorbate dihydrate
Note: Before purchasing nutritional supplements, I recommend seeking advice from a health professional to ensure that you are taking the correct dose and the right product for your individual health needs.