Stress is a part of life. While short-term stress prepares us for "fight or flight" by increasing blood flow to critical muscles, long-term stress takes a toll on our immune system, digestion, and overall health. The good news? While we can’t always eliminate stress, we can equip our bodies to handle it better with the right nutrition.
PROTEIN: YOUR SECRET WEAPON AGAINST STRESS
Research highlights the importance of protein in managing stress. Protein helps:
Regulate blood sugar levels
Stabilize energy levels
Balance moods
In a study, university students who ate a high-protein breakfast showed lower levels of stress hormones by the end of the day compared to those who had a high-carb breakfast. Protein-rich meals have also been linked to better blood pressure control, improved blood sugar regulation, and lower daytime stress hormones.
Easy Protein-Packed Breakfast Ideas:
Greek yogurt or plant-based alternatives
Cow’s, almond, or oat milk
Linseeds or ground nuts like almond, hazelnut, or cashew meal
High-protein smoothies made with fresh ingredients (skip sugary, processed breakfast drinks)
VITAMIN C: STRESS RELIEF FOR YOUR ADRENAL GLANDS
Vitamin C is essential for your body, particularly during stressful times. Your adrenal glands use vitamin C to produce stress hormones, which means stress can quickly deplete your reserves. Unlike most animals, humans cannot produce vitamin C, so it’s crucial to include it in your diet.
Natural Sources of Vitamin C:
Fruits: Strawberries, mangoes, kiwi, rockmelon, pawpaw, and citrus
Vegetables: Parsley, green capsicum, and sweet potato
THE RIGHT FOODS TO SUPPORT YOU
When stress strikes, support your body with foods that fuel resilience. Incorporate protein and vitamin C-rich options into your meals to stabilize your mood and energy. A breakfast smoothie packed with almond milk, Greek yogurt, fresh mango, and a handful of parsley can set the tone for a stress-free day.
By prioritizing nutritious choices like fresh juice Wollongong options and juice cleanse programs, you’ll not only handle stress better but also support your overall health. Start eating your stress away—the right way!