How tech is driving health care
Cortisol is a steroid hormone that helps regulate the body's response to stress. It plays an important role in keeping us healthy and safe, but it is important not to let cortisol levels in the body get too high.
High cortisol levels can cause symptoms such as weight gain, high blood pressure, and muscle weakness in your upper arms and thighs. Thankfully, there are certain foods you can incorporate into your daily diet to help keep those cortisol levels down.
Curious? Check out this gallery to find out more.
It is important to be aware, however, that dark chocolate also contains caffeine, which can increase cortisol levels. It should therefore be enjoyed in moderation.
Next up we have avocados, which are packed with healthy fats and have a reputation for being a 'super food.'
Avocados contain magnesium, which, as previously explained, helps keep cortisol levels under control.
By eating enough fermented foods and maintaining a healthy gut, we can therefore encourage proper serotonin production.
Fruits and vegetables have a number of health benefits in general, and those benefits include stress management.
Next up we have leafy greens, such as spinach and kale. These are not everyone's favorite, but they are incredibly beneficial.
Green tea, just like dark chocolate, is high in antioxidants, which help protect your body against oxidative stress.
It also contains the amino acid L-theanine, which has been associated with a reduction in cognitive stress, depression, and anxiety.
However, green tea does also contain caffeine. If you plan to drink it in large amounts, it is best to opt for a decaf version.
Fatty fish, such as salmon and sardines, are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have a number of proven health benefits.
Among other things, omega-3 helps reduce inflammation, supports brain health, and promotes a sense of calm.
Lean proteins, such as chicken and turkey, contain amino acids that help form the hormones and neurotransmitters involved in the body's stress response.
Chicken and turkey are great sources of lean protein. If you are vegetarian, a good option is tofu and/or beans.
The added benefit of chicken and turkey is that they are high in vitamin B, which also helps the body manage its levels of stress hormones.
As well as being a great source of protein, eggs also contain essential vitamins such as B12 and B6. These help regulate stress hormones.
Moreover, eggs also provide essential amino acids that promote the production of neurotransmitters and therefore foster an overall sense of well-being.
Sometimes, other lifestyle changes are also needed to get those cortisol levels down. First up, it's important to get enough quality sleep.
It is also important, unsurprisingly, that you get enough exercise in. If the body doesn't move regularly, all of its processes become more difficult.
And, finally, some people find it helpful to practice relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing and meditation. Making the right food choices is important, but it's not always enough.
Sources: (Verywell Health) (Cleveland Clinic)
Foods proven to reduce cortisol
Eating to keep your stress levels down
HEALTH Diet
Cortisol is a steroid hormone that helps regulate the body's response to stress. It plays an important role in keeping us healthy and safe, but it is important not to let cortisol levels in the body get too high.
High cortisol levels can cause symptoms such as weight gain, high blood pressure, and muscle weakness in your upper arms and thighs. Thankfully, there are certain foods you can incorporate into your daily diet to help keep those cortisol levels down.
Curious? Check out this gallery to find out more.