5 Food Habit Changes To De-Stress

We constantly try to ignore the fact that there is a correlation between stress, food habits and nutritional insufficiency. In our day-to-day lives, we often miss our lunch or dinner to meet a certain deadline at the office. The results are heartburn, acidity and several health-related issues. Eating when stressed can also be a bad habit. Thus, good food habits are critical for keeping stress at bay. Here’s a list of five good food habits that can change your life and keep you stress-free.

1. Do Not Skip Meals

It is important to eat at least three to four times a day. Small regular meals keep your body and stomach balanced. They also help you utilize the acid produced in your stomach. It is advisable, not to miss out on your meals even when you are chasing deadlines or travelling, and find time for your meals!

Increase your intake of natural prebiotics, which help promote good bacteria. They are particularly found in Jerusalem artichokes, chicory, bananas, garlic, onions and leeks. Chew everything properly. Eat slowly and chew thoroughly to give your digestion the best chance to work effectively. Make sure you are getting all your nutrients by eating proteins(eggs, meat or fish), healthy fats and plenty of vegetables with every meal

2. Cut Down On Your Beverages And Sugar Drinks

When stress is hovering, we tend to sip on cups of coffee, tea or aerated sugar-based drinks that not only add extra sugar to our bodies but also leave us with unwanted elements such as caffeine and calories. If these products are taken in large quantities, they can harm the body. Instead, choose cool alkaline buttermilk or lemon water. These not only balance the acidity in your stomach but refresh and replenish your entire body.

3. Eat Small But Regularly

It is scientifically proven that the level of the stress hormone, Cortisol, in our body tends to rise when we are hungry. And high levels of cortisol in the body lead to fat accumulation. So staying hungry is not an option. It is advisable to start your day with a healthy breakfast and eat small meals at frequent intervals. Overeating is always avoidable!

4. Drink Plenty Of Water

Regular water intake helps your body perform each function smoothly. It not only balances the ph levels and alkalinity of your body but also helps in detoxification. Drink 8 to 12 glasses of water each day. Caffeinated drinks dehydrate your body. Have an extra glass of water after tea or coffee. Always keep a water bottle handy or in your reach whether in your office or at home.

5. Eat This, Not That

Eating outside or binging on your favourite snack in between meals may not be a good idea. This leads to the intake of extra calories. This also kills your appetite, preventing you from consuming a healthy, complete meal. Snacks are laced with extra fat and salt too. Excessive salt intake increases water retention in your body and might lead to high blood pressure. This is why you should choose healthy foods such as fruits, salads or sprouts.

Start fresh and stay stress-free!