FOOD FOR THOUGHT: Stress, Inflammation and Heart Disease

Everyday Foods that Calm your Nerves and Lift your Spirits

We all know that the overconsumption of white and refined sugars can create a rollercoaster of emotions, just as our life experiences and natural hormones can.  There are foods that create “anti-stress” responses in our body, and they are all readily available.  Generally speaking, they are foods high in selenium, a trace mineral that helps make antioxidants, magnesium, a nerve and muscle relaxant;  tryptophan (besides creating a Thanksgiving Day droop) is an essential amino acid that the body uses to create serotonin, a neuro-chemical that relaxes the brain.  Oats, and other complex carbohydrates help with the absorption of tryptophan.  Oats are also a good source of soluble fiber that helps to lower cholesterol.  Milk has calming effects because it also has tryptophan, and for the lactose-intolerant, there is always soy or rice milk.  Shellfish such as shrimp and lobster are great sources of both selenium and tryptophan, in addition to omega 3 fatty acids, vitamin D and B12.  Salmon is also a good source.  Broccoli, avocado, banana, kale, Brussel sprouts, cabbage, winter squash, eggplant and potatoes are good providers of potassium, a mineral that can alleviate muscle tiredness, fatigue, irritability and anxiety.  Beta-carotene, vitamin C and vitamin E are also present in broccoli and help to strengthen the immune system.  For tea drinkers, green tea is the first choice—it has been shown to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease and cancer while lowering blood pressure and preventing hypertension.  Adequate amounts of vitamin C are needed to convert tryptophan into serotonin.  Kiwi, all citrus, strawberries, papaya and guava are all great sources. 

1. Selenium:  Almonds, Brazil nuts, shrimp, lobster
2. Magnesium:  Spinach, halibut, pumpkin seeds, peppermint, basil, lemon balm
3. Tryptophan:  Dark chocolate, almonds, sunflower seeds, milk, legumes, red meat
4. Potassium:  Broccoli, avocado, kale, banana, potato, cabbage, tomatoes
   
   Questions about our spa cuisine menu?  Christine Denney
   
   

Carol mohalley commented on 02-Feb-2012 01:33 PM

This was a great explanation in every way. Thank you carol

Comment

Rate This Article
1 5

Do you have feedback? (Optional)

Name (Optional)

Website (Optional)

Email Address (Optional)

Enter Word Verification in box below •