Does Eating Affect Our Stress Levels? The Simple Answer is YES. Below I’ll tell you why.

I would love to talk to you about nutrition and stress. Does eating affect our stress levels? The simple answer is YES! What we put in our bodies is hugely important in managing our stress levels.

There are lots of reasons why I champion nutrition to aid stress symptoms but three of my favourites are:

✨ Extra Energy

✨ Regulating Cortisol Levels

✨ Encouraging Mindful Eating

Let’s delve into these a little further. 

✨Provides You With Extra Energy: 

Food FIRES up our engine. The carbs, proteins, and fats in food provide calories which fuel and energise your body. Vitamins and minerals are involved in the process of converting nutrients into fuel for energy. And when you have energy you are in a better place to deal with the curveballs that life can throw at you. Look to eat the rainbow (veggies not Haribo!), get healthy fats, lean proteins and complex carbs. 

✨Helps To Regulate Cortisol Levels

 During times of stress, your body can release cortisol after releasing its “fight or flight” hormones, such as adrenaline, so you continue to stay on high alert. Early research suggests that certain foods like polyunsaturated fats including Omega 3s (think fish, seafood, nuts, seeds etc) and vegetables may help to regulate cortisol levels. On the flip side a high sugar diet may elevate cortisol levels. 

✨Encourages Mindful Eating

Fast food is well what it says on the tin… fast. That sandwich you pick up at lunch is eaten in a hurry at your desk, that burger eaten in the car. Cooking and connecting with your food allows for slower mindful consumption. And in turn we are rewarded with better digestion and an increased gratitude for the food we are eating. 

I empower busy women to take control and create healthy habits that; reduce stress, improve sleep and boost productivity. Contact me here.  for 1-2-1 coaching availability.