By Isabelle Nunn, Head Nutritionist

This Stress Awareness month, try our easy suggestions to make sure you are not neglecting your wellbeing.*

According to the largest known study in the UK, over 70 % people feel so stressed that they are unable to cope. Some of the many reasons range from income, health complications, body image, work concerns, housing and family. (1)

Q: What symptoms can be linked to stress?
A:

  • Anxiety
  • Digestive problems ranging from bloating, constipation or spasms.
  • Sleep problems
  • Skin problems such as acne or psoriasis
  • Lethargy
  • Generally feeling low
  • Prolonged stress is linked to long-term health problems such as obesity, diabetes or high blood pressure.

Q: What can you include in your diet to support your stress levels?
A:

  • Nourish your body with antioxidants and stay hydrated
  • Support your adrenal glands
  • Feed your gut bacteria
  • Stay Hydrated 

Diet plays a great part in day-to-day stress levels and working with a registered nutritionist can be helpful.

Q: Would we need to supplement to support our stress levels?
A: Quite often yes. Research and diagnostic tests can show stress markers, hormonal changes, food intolerances/sensitivity in the gut which prevent the adequate absorption and digestion of nutrients. Stress also comes with such an array of symptoms, which need to be addressed as a whole but also individually.

Vitamin C
Ener-C comes in different flavours and provides 1000 mg of soluble vitamin C in mineral ascorbate forms. A form easily recognised by the body to utilise. Vitamin C supports energy, immunity and helps to replenish our levels. Vitamin C can help us reduce the effects of stress on the body and us bounce back.
An excellent alternative to Ener-C is Nature’s Answer Liposomal Vitamin C.

Probiotics
Microbiome Formulas  by Garden of Life provide excellent support for gut health. Mood + in particular has clinically studied, organic Ashwagandha and two well researched strains of bacteria to help support mood. It also has certified organic prebiotics that work very well in supporting digestion. It has 50 billion live bacterial cultures and a diverse range of them!

Mushrooms
Organic Mushroom Chaga and Organic Mushroom Reishi can provide support for the immune system and  stress related factors and symptoms. They are high in antioxidants and organic and are a great addition to the diet.

B vitamins
Vitamin B12 spray is commonly associated with stress as well as vitamin B5. Particularly need B12 if you are vegan or vegetarian.

Q: What herbal remedies can help with Anxiety?
A:

  • Rhodiola root  shown to possibly help cope with stress and fatigue.
  • Chamomile  flowers’ gentle nature can help bring calm and support those who lead a busy life.
  • Ashwagandha  root has traditionally shown to support and nourish the adrenal glands. May also help hormonal imbalances that occur as a result of stress.
  • Alcohol-free botanical extracts by Nature’s Answer  provide a holistic way of incorporating herbs in your daily routine.
     

Q: Can I do anything else to manage my stress levels?
A:

  • Get outside: Not only will you benefit from fresh air and get a daily dose of Vitamin D but it also gives you the space and time to relax.
  •  Surround yourself with positive friends and family
  • Breathing exercises
  • Pilates at your desk if you do not have time to head out.
  • Rest: Sleep and time away from electronics when not working is so important and often forgotten.

  • Wild swimming has shown to help relax and easy your mind


*For information purposes only. Any claims are based on clinical research, are not aimed to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Food supplements should be used within the framework of a healthy lifestyle and not used as substitutes of a varied and balanced diet.

References

1) https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/statistics/mental-health-statistics-stress