We all have enough on our plates these days, and stress should definitely not be part of it. And we say plate, we actually mean a plate. Did you know that stressors can be in your food? That’s why it’s important to skip all of that comfort food when you’re stressed and choose something nutritious instead. Our expert chiropractors have put together a list of foods that can stress you out. Read on to learn more.
Stress and Food
Emotional tension can have its roots in work-related stress or even a difficult relationship. However, stress comes and goes, it’s natural. But, it can become harmful to your health when it’s constant since it can contribute to a number of diseases and cravings for comfort foods. This can make the stress cycle even worse.
The Connection Between Cortisol and Food
Cortisol is also known as the stress hormone and it can increase when you’re stressed or tense. When you’re stressed you can start craving comfort foods such as pasta or ice cream. Why? Because a higher level of cortisol contributes to a higher level of insulin.
When this happens you crave carbs because your blood sugar dips. You should try to ban bad carbs as well as eating a diet full of nutrient-rich foods like green leafy vegetables. A glass of wine may seem harmless and good for relaxing and decreasing your stress, but in reality, alcohol can also increase your cortisol levels.
Reducing your stress levels can help you maintain a healthy weight and enjoy better health and reduced the odds of getting common diseases.
7 Foods That Can Stress You Out
#1 White Flour
White flour is processed and stripped of fiber-rich layers. It is also refined and lacks its outer layer. White flour is digested rather quickly and your bloodstream absorbs it quickly, raising your blood sugar levels. This causes cortisol to release into the body, therefore causing stress.
#2 Salt
Salt is a great way of adding flavor to your food but adding too much to your food can lead to an excess of sodium in your body. This can cause fluid retention, hypertension, and even high blood pressure. This puts a lot of stress on your heart.
#3 Processed Meats
Processed meats refer to sausages, hot dogs, deli meats, and beef jerky. These products are long-lasting and tasty because their manufacturers fill them with sodium and preservatives that can decrease your energy and increase your stress levels.
#4 Sugar
When you take a sip of soda, eat a slice of pie, or anything with sugar your cortisol levels can spike. When you intake high-sugar foods constantly it will cause unstable blood sugar levels. This can stress your body and cortisol will be released to deal with it. This imbalance can cause us to stress out and feel anxious.
#5 Caffeine
Caffeine can also increase your cortisol levels. This can lead to an increase in your heart rate and blood pressure. It can inhibit the absorption of vitamins D and B, which are mood-boosting nutrients. Caffeine can also prevent you from sleeping well and therefore leading to stress-induced by fatigue.
#6 Fried Foods
Fried foods, unfortunately, can decrease your energy levels and contribute to stress. They can cause people to feel uncomfortable and sluggish and less likely to be active.
#7 Alcohol
Alcohol sometimes feels like a good idea after a long day. It can serve as a mild sedative, making us calm, temporarily. However, if we drink too much, alcohol can actually make anxiety worse for people who already experience it.
Fighting Stress With Chiropractic Care
One of the best ways of fighting stress in our lives is to exercise. Exercise can boost your body’s endorphins, lessening your stress and mood dramatically. The best part is that you don’t have to train for a marathon to get the benefits of exercising. A simple walk can make you feel better, physically and mentally.
Regular chiropractic adjustments can reduce stress by decreasing the interference in your nervous system and releasing any muscle tension. If you’re interested in trying it out, schedule an appointment today with Mauricio Chiropractic.
We provide advanced spinal correction utilizing “state of the art” chiropractic techniques. Never in the history of chiropractic have we been able to provide the level of help and expertise that now exists. These newer correction methods are even safer, more comfortable and more effective than ever before. As Doctors of Chiropractic,Our Team has years of training and experience in spinal adjustment.