With stress an increasingly common aspect of day-to-day life, Mark Gilbert, Nutritionist for The 1:1 Diet by Cambridge Weight Plan, is urging people to rethink before reaching for food to combat symptoms of stress. According to recent research, over a quarter (29%) of the population suffers from weight issues as a result of their stress.
The recent research also revealed that 31% of people surveyed have felt stressed due to suffering from weight-related health issues, while 15% have suffered significant emotional distress as a consequence of these health problems. The highest percentage of people who reported stress-induced weight issues were aged between 45 and 54 years old.
Mark Gilbert offers his top tips for the best foods and drinks to reach for next time you're suffering from stress:
- Green tea: Green tea contains L-theanine, an amino acid that has a calming effect on the brain. Drinking a cup of green tea can help to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.
- Dark chocolate: Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which are natural compounds that have been shown to reduce stress and anxiety. Eating a small amount of dark chocolate can help to boost mood and reduce stress levels.
- Berries: Berries are high in antioxidants, which help to combat stress by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body. Eating a handful of berries, such as blueberries, strawberries, or raspberries, can help to reduce stress levels.
- Leafy greens: Leafy greens, such as spinach, kale, and Swiss chard, are rich in magnesium, which is a mineral that helps to regulate cortisol, the stress hormone. Adding leafy greens to your diet can help to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation.
- Nuts: Nuts, such as almonds, walnuts, and pistachios, are high in healthy fats and magnesium, which can help to reduce stress levels. Eating a handful of nuts as a snack can help to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
"Food cravings have a way of striking at our weakest emotional moments, tempting us to find comfort on our plates. Emotional eating can hinder your weight-loss journey, often resulting in overindulging in calorie-laden, sugary, and fatty foods. The good news is that for those prone to emotional eating, there are ways to regain control and get back on track towards achieving your weight-loss goals," said Mark.
Mark Gilbert encourages people to prioritise their mental and physical health, and to seek out healthy coping mechanisms to manage their stress. "It's important to take care of yourself, and that includes being mindful of what you eat and how it affects your stress levels."
