Stress-how it affects the body

August 1st, 2008 jason Posted in Health |

Stress, we all have it and we also know that the effects of stress can be dangerous for our health. So now that we all know this, let’s make certain changes in our lives to eliminate stress and have a healthier lifestyle. By including certain foods, exercises and relaxation techniques into our daily lives, we can alleviate stress.

First off, there are certain foods that contain nutritional elements which can help deal with stress.

For example, Complex Carbohydrates (whole grains, broccoli, leafy greens, potatoes, corn and bananas) which cause serotonin to be released into the brain naturally calming the body and mind; Magnesium whichthe body uses to fight stress and promote restful sleep (leafy vegetables, nuts and whole grains), Vitamin B6 which helps to deliver magnesium into the cells (B complex supplement containing thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, B6, folic acid, B12 and biotin), Vitamin C because stress can deplete our bodies of this beneficial immunity boost vitamin; and Calcium which among other benefits we are more aware of also when combined with magnesium relaxes the muscles.

There are also certain foods that should be reduced or avoided completely in our daily diet to get control of our stress levels. These include: refined sugar and alcohol which both lower blood sugar levels causing stress and anxiety, and caffeine which increases the stress that our bodies try to manage. All of these stimulants we often turn to as a quick “fix” for stress, but there benefits are temporary and can create more stress and lead to an unhealthy cycle and sometimes addictions.

Furthermore, certain exercises can help to reduce stress. There are the relaxation and mediation exercises such as Yoga. Since yoga requires controlled breathing and concentration on holding certain poses, it creates a balance of mind, body and spirit. In contrast more rigorous aerobic exercises which use large muscles of the body in repetitive and rhythmic movements (jogging, swimming and cycling) can also assist in limiting stress. These exercises help to release endorphins which have been proven to relieve symptoms of clinical depression.

Moreover, by learning to have your mind and body work in unison through mediation, breathing and visual exercises we can bring ourselves into a state of pure relaxation. The repetition of words, movement, breathing pattern allows the mind to concentrate on one specific thought and idea. These kinds of exercises are convenient because there are no limitations to when and where you can do them. You can be at your desk in your office and do some breathing or mediation exercises.

These are all simple ways to help us reduce the stress which seems to take over our lives and damage our health. We must incorporate the helpful stress relieving foods into our diet, avoid those substances which create more stress and find the right exercise routine and relaxation techniques that keep us relaxed, happy and healthy.