One can not think well, love well, or sleep well if one has not dined well.
- Virginia Woolf, 1929
Everyone is feeling it, its Winter, everyone is a little chilly, a little more stressed. All the major junk food companies are recording record sales increases. In times of financial and life stress, people generally turn to the cheapest food options, these fast packaged foods present comfort and convenience. They also come with a warning, not printed anywhere is the advertising or packaging. 'These foods are not good for you.....', although they appease your needs in the moment, the ramification's of consuming these foods on a regular basis are not seen instantly.
Health experts warn that during economic downturns people typically, in the quest to save money, turn to cheaper less-healthy eating choices.
Extra weight “recession pounds” results from the increased consumption of cheaper junk and fast foods that also happen to be tasty by virtue of the fact that they are often loaded with salt, fat, and highly processed carbohydrates.
What you save now, you pay for later in doctor's bills, lowered self esteem and poor health. Use this time to gain control of your life and health, instead of filling yourself up with a quick fix. Ironically this is one of the reasons that people reach for junk, is to feel like they have control of their lives.Use this need to empower yourself. Get healthy,eat well and go for a walk.
We are better equipped to life's stresses, when are minds and bodies are fuelled with the right foods, foods that provide us with essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Consuming these foods on a regular basis counteracts free radical damage and builds a strong mind and body. First and foremost an increase in all fresh fruit and vegetables in the diet, will make a big difference, below a few foods that can be noted for the stress fighting properties.
Health experts warn that during economic downturns people typically, in the quest to save money, turn to cheaper less-healthy eating choices.
Extra weight “recession pounds” results from the increased consumption of cheaper junk and fast foods that also happen to be tasty by virtue of the fact that they are often loaded with salt, fat, and highly processed carbohydrates.
What you save now, you pay for later in doctor's bills, lowered self esteem and poor health. Use this time to gain control of your life and health, instead of filling yourself up with a quick fix. Ironically this is one of the reasons that people reach for junk, is to feel like they have control of their lives.Use this need to empower yourself. Get healthy,eat well and go for a walk.
We are better equipped to life's stresses, when are minds and bodies are fuelled with the right foods, foods that provide us with essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Consuming these foods on a regular basis counteracts free radical damage and builds a strong mind and body. First and foremost an increase in all fresh fruit and vegetables in the diet, will make a big difference, below a few foods that can be noted for the stress fighting properties.
TRY ADDING THESE TO YOUR WEEKLY INTAKE
Blueberries: Are bursting with Vitamin C and antioxidants; which undo free radical damage and help protect the body and help it deal with stresses. ( Although they are not in season at the moment you can still get them frozen)
Almonds: They are great at lowering blood pressure and keeping oxygen flowing through the body. They're packed with vitamin B2 (riboflavin), vitamin E, magnesium, and zinc. B vitamins and magnesium are involved in the production of serotonin, which helps regulate mood and relieve stress. Zinc has also been shown to fight some of the negative effects of stress, while vitamin E is an antioxidant that destroys the free radicals related to stress and heart disease.
Spinach: An amazing superfood, provides a huge amount of magnesium , which is a mineral that helps keep stress levels low in the body. In fact all the green leafy vegetables are great for the mind and body.
Dark Raw Chocolate: Raw Cocoa and dark chocolate contain significant amounts of antioxidant flavanols, which have been shown to improve blood flow in the brain. Not all chocolates are created equal. Raw chocolate is not the same as commercial chocolate and it actually has health properties.
Bananas: This fruit is packed with vitamin B, a super food when it comes to regulating stress. By keeping nerves and brain cells healthy, this nutrient keeps blood pressure and stress hormones in check during high-tension situations that trigger a fight-or-flight response
Avocado: The next time stress has you desperate for a high-fat, creamy treat, skip the ice cream or cream and try some homemade guacamole -- the thick, rich texture can satisfy your craving and reduce those frantic feelings. Plus, the green wonders' of the avocado of monounsaturated fat and potassium can lower blood pressureTo your good health...
