Stress is a biological response to demanding situations. As a result, the body
releases hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline.
These hormones help prepare the body to act, for example by increasing the heart
and breathing rates. When this occurs, a doctor may describe a person as being in
heightened alertness or arousal.
Stress can be caused by many factors, including dangerous situations and
psychological pressures such as work deadlines, exams, and sporting events.
The physical effects of stress do not usually last long. However, some people are in
an almost constant state of heightened alertness. This is chronic stress.
Some possible causes of chronic stress include:
● high-pressure works
● financial difficulties
● challenging relationships
Chronic stress puts pressure on the body for a long period. This can cause a variety
of symptoms and increase the risk of developing certain diseases.
Signs and symptoms
Chronic stress affects the entire body. You may have various physical or
psychological symptoms, which can make daily functioning more challenging.
There is considerable variation in the type and severity of symptoms from person to
person.
Signs and symptoms of chronic stress can include:
● irritability, which can be extreme
● fatigue
● Headaches
● difficulty concentrating or inability to do so
● fast and disorganized thoughts
● difficulty to sleep
● digestive problems
● changes in appetite
● feeling helpless
● a perceived loss of control
● low self-esteem
● loss of sexual desire
● nervousness
● frequent infections or illnesses
5 foods that fight stress:
Avocados
These creamy fruits make your body resistant to stress. Rich in glutathione, a
substance that specifically blocks the intestinal absorption of certain fats that cause
oxidative damage, avocados also contains lutein, beta-carotene, vitamin E, and
more folic acid than any other fruit. A single serving (about a quarter of an avocado)
also has a lot of B vitamins. Remember, this may technically be a fruit, but I count it
as fat, so use portion control. Thinly sliced into sandwiches, it adds a new layer of
flavour.
Berries
Blueberries have some of the highest levels of an antioxidant known as anthocyanin
and have been linked to all kinds of positive health outcomes, including more acute
cognition. But all berries, including strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, are
rich in vitamin C, which has been shown to help fight stress. German researchers
tested this by asking 120 people to give a speech and then solve difficult math
problems. Those who had received vitamin C had lower blood pressure and lower
cortisol levels after the stress party. Substitute the berries for any other fruit in the
plan whenever you want. I also like to nibble on them frozen.
Green Tea
While it contains caffeine, green tea also has an amino acid called theanine.
Researchers from the University of Illinois say that, in addition to protecting against
some types of cancer, this slimming food also stimulates the brain and improves
mental performance. Drink two cups a day.
Oranges
Another powerhouse of vitamin C, oranges have the added benefit of being
portable. That tough leather keeps them protected as they bounce around in your
bag or backpack, meaning you can take them anywhere. Experiment with all
varieties: clementines, tangelos, mineolas.
Walnuts
The sweet taste of walnuts is very nice and it’s good to know that they have been
shown to provide a bit of a cognitive advantage. It contains alpha-linolenic acid, an
essential omega-3 fatty acid, and other polyphenols that have been shown to help
prevent memory loss. The Tufts University researchers found that the animals that
ingested walnuts even reversed some signs of brain ageing. To bring out their
flavour, I roast them for 10 minutes, then chop them up and add them to salads.
