Certain foods and herbs have a calming effect on the body, while others have an antidepressant effect. Still other foods tend to create more stress. Cut back or eliminate substances known to aggravate anxiety and stress, such as caffeine, nicotine and stimulant drugs. Limit salt, sugar and alcohol consumption. Substitute with decaf and/or herbal ingredients whenever possible.
Foods That Boost Your Energy
Increase your consumption of foods that boost your energy and lift your spirits. For example, blueberries, grapes, tomatoes and sweet potatoes are rich in stress-busting vitamin C. Protein foods like skim milk and cottage cheese stabilize your blood sugar and help you feel less hungry. Walnuts, asparagus and wild salmon help maintain levels of serotonin, the "feel-good" neurochemical in the brain. According to the Glycemic Index (GI) most fruits and vegetables are low on the carbohydrate index. Include at least one low carb GI food with each meal or snack. Among its benefits, low-GI foods increase metabolism, curb your appetite and reduce cravings.
Eat Mindfully
Don't gulp or bolt down your food. Learn to savor and appreciate the eating experience. Swallow one bite before taking the next to get the full impact of taste sensations in your mouth. Use all your senses - sight to take in the colors on your plate, smell to inhale the aromas, taste to savor the different flavors and feel to enjoy the texture of the foods as you chew. Remember, it takes approximately 20 minutes for your stomach to signal the brain that you are full. So for an easy weight loss strategy, eat slooowly and you will find that you are eating less.
Stress is a Diet Killer
Learn relaxation, visualization, deep breathing or self-hypnosis techniques to get through the tough times while you are trying to lose weight. Try this quick one-minute stress reliever: (1) choose a relaxing word or phrase such as peaceful, calming, soothing, etc. (2) Make a circle with your thumb and forefinger ("I'm okay" sign) as your cue to relax. (3) Now gently close your eyes and focus your attention within. (4) Inhale slowly. (5) Think of your relaxing word or phrase as you slowly exhale. (6) Repeat (4) and (5) five times. Allow yourself to let go of any stressful thoughts. This is your time for relaxation. Enjoy your calm space. This one minute distraction may be all the time you need to take your mind off of that high calorie fix!
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