The sort of food you eat can either help to instill a sense of calmness and balance, or make you feel even more anxious and at sea. Let us have a look at some of the foods that can be used in a anti stress diet plan.
Skin Care and Stress Relief – Anti Stress Diet
Foods That Soothe
Almonds – These nuts contain magnesium, a mineral sometimes known as nature’s tranquillizer. It helps to keep the nerves on an even keel Nibbling these nuts between meals instead of sweet snacks stabilizes blood sugars and helps to keep energy levels steady.
Bananas – A rich source of tryptophan, an amino acid that we convert into serotonin. Serotonin is a brain chemical associated with feeling calm and content. Anxiety, depression and stress induced insomnia are linked to low levels of this chemical. Other foods containing pre formed serotonin are dates, red and blue plums, aubergines, papaya, passion fruit, pineapple and tomatoes.
Figs – One of the best plant sources of calcium, a mineral which helps to relax the muscles. Low levels of calcium are linked to anxiety and nervousness. Other good sources are chickpeas, natural yogurt, green leafy vegetables and shellfish.
Flax oil – Flax oil is the richest natural source of omega 3 fatty acids which are needed to make healthy brain and nervous tissue. They also keep the skin soft and smooth. These fatty acids are also present in soya beans, walnuts and pumpkin seeds, as well as oily fish such as salmon and mackerel.
Wholegrain – These provide plenty of B vitamins which are needed to soothe and strengthen the nerves. B vitamins are rapidly depleted by stress. As they cannot be stored in the body we need a good supply every day. They help to keep blood sugar levels stable and provide a steady source of energy. Good sources are brown rice, wheat, rye and oats.
Foods That Frazzle
Biscuits, cakes and pastries – These are made from refined (white) sugar and flour which are depleted of B vitamins. Like adrenaline they give a sudden rush of energy which quickly wears off. What the body needs in times of stress is a slow and steady supply of energy.
Red meat – This is rich in tyrosine, an amino acid which the body converts to adrenaline. On the plus side it can make you feel more alert and energized, but if you are already on edge it will exacerbate feelings of agitation. Tyrosine is also present in eggs and cheese.
Chocolate – Rich in sugar and a mild stimulant known as theobromine, this number one comfort food can actually enhance feelings of anxiety and irritability. If you can’t resist, opt instead for dark chocolate (90 per cent cocoa butter) which is rich in soothing magnesium.
Coffee – Three cups of coffee can raise adrenaline levels by 200 per cent. This is because coffee goads the adrenal glands into producing adrenaline when it isn’t genuinely needed.
Nature’s Tranquillizers
Certain plants and herbs help to boost your natural resistance to life’s ups and downs.
Avena Sativa – A tincture made from oats which helps to calm and strengthen the nervous system. Avena Sativa is Ideal for nervous exhaustion.
Camomile – This soothes the nervous system and is especially helpful for stomach upsets and cramps caused by stress Make an infusion or take as a tincture.
Daminara – A Native American aphrodisiac excellent for relieving stress-induced anxiety, depression and loss of libido. Daminara works by strengthening the nervous system to increase resilience to stress. Make an infusion or take as a tincture.
Kava kava – Acclaimed as nature’s answer to Librium, kava has been used for centuries by native South Sea islanders who have been called the happiest people on earth. Kava induces relaxation and relieves feelings of anxiety without causing drowsiness. Kava kava is available as a tincture or in tablet form.
Orange blossom – The heady scented blossom from the orange tree helps to ease anxiety and nervous depression. Dilute a little orange flower water with hot water to make a soothing drink. From these flowers comes the essential oil neroli with its tranquillizing and slightly hypnotic perfume.
Passionflower (passiflora) – Passionflower is a sedative which brings deep relaxation. Good for nervous tension and when you feel on edge. Make an infusion or take as a tincture.
Essential Oils
For face massage – Add 6 drops of essential oil to 30ml (2 tablespoons) of carrier oil.
For body massage – Add 12 drops of essential oil to 30ml (2 tablespoons) of carrier oil.
For a soothing bath – Add 10 drops of essential oil to a tablespoon of organic milk and add to the bath.
To create a peaceful atmosphere – Place a few drops of your favorite essential oil on to an aroma burner or drop into a bowl of just-boiled water. Frankincense and sandalwood are a wonderful aid to meditation.
All the food item and other remedies mentioned above helps in skin care and stress relief and can be included in an anti stress diet plan.
