Sue Bedford (MSc Nutritional Therapy)
Stress is an unavoidable part of everyday life and even more so if you are going through IVF. Not all stress is ‘bad stress’ as a little can boost performance and make the brain more alert due to our natural ‘fight or flight’ instinct being activated. If, however, the balance tips and stress levels increase too much there can then be a negative effect on the body and it will take its toll both physically and emotionally. It is important to be aware of ‘triggers’ and to know how to manage these. Nutrition, exercise and relaxation are also essential in reducing stress.
 Here are some top stress busting foods and nutrients to help your body cope better with stress:
- Vitamin C – The adrenal glands contain the largest store of vitamin C in the body and are important in the production of stress hormones. Eat citrus fruit such as oranges, tomatoes, peppers, kiwi fruit, leafy green vegetables, broccoli along with other foods that are rich in vitamin C.
- Drink plenty of water (around 1.5 litres a day), reduce sugary drinks and drinks containing caffeine. Try some green or ginger tea
- Vitamin B – Helps to restore energy during stressful periods. Eat plenty of bananas, leafy green vegetables, avocados, nuts and seeds. Meat, fish and dairy products are also good sources..
- Blueberries -rich in vitamins and phytonutrients (plant nutrients), with a variety of antioxidants that are considered extremely beneficial for relieving stress.
- Wholegrains -rich in magnesium, a deficiency of which can contribute to being more stressed/anxious. Also contain tryptophan which is converted to serotonin- a calming neurotransmitter.
- Dark chocolate (70% and above cocoa) Chocolate reduces cortisol – the stress hormone that causes anxiety symptoms. There are also compounds inside dark chocolate that improve mood.Â
- Acai berries -high in phytonutrients and antioxidants including Vitamin C.
- Seaweed, high in magnesium and tryptophan, and are a good alternative to wholegrains for those who are gluten sensitive.
- Turkey -an excellent source of tryptophan and B vitamins.
- Turmeric -contains curcuminoids which are antioxidants and help enhance mood.
- Omega 3 fatty acids -help decrease inflammation and prevent cortisol and adrenaline from spiking.
- Avocados –contain potassium which can help to lower blood pressure. Also contain B vitamins and monounsaturated fats which are important for neurotransmitters in the brain – in fact contain over 18 fabulous nutrients!
Infertility and financial pressure. Could you imagine a more stressful combination?
The post April is Stress Awareness Month…Some Top Stress Busting Foods and Nutrients appeared first on IVF Babble.
