Destress

De-Stress Everybody suffers from stress at one time or another. As our society becomes more and more fast paced, we can sometimes struggle to keep up with the demands that are placed on us and our nervous systems are consequently overworked, resulting in stress. Stress may be caused by anything from the general demands of living in a big city, to relationship issues, studying for exams, juggling family and work commitments, illness, or worries about money. However there is help at hand, as stress can be managed through diet, lifestyle, and supplementation. The following supplements are recommended for their supportive effects during times of stress: • B Vitamins are used up quickly during stressful situations, as they are involved in energy production and stress support. Therapeutic levels of Vitamin B5 are required to support the adrenal glands and prevent adrenal exhaustion. The adrenal glands are responsible for producing stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol for the body. • Vitamin C is concentrated in the adrenal glands. Adequate Vitamin C is required for production of stress hormones. • Magnesium. Stress rapidly depletes our body of magnesium, which can result in signs of deficiency such as irritability, anxiety, twitching muscles, and trouble getting to sleep at night. • L Theanine is a calming amino acid which is naturally occurring in green tea. L Theanine works to increase alpha brain waves, inducing relaxation. • 5HTP works to increase serotonin levels in the body. Serotonin levels can decrease due to prolonged exposure to stress, and deficiency can contributes to a low mood, anxiety, and trouble sleeping. • Ashwaganda and Siberian ginseng are herbs which are known as adaptogens, which help us to adapt to stressful situations, and support the adrenal glands in producing adequate stress hormones. • Valerian and Chamomile act to calm and soothe the nervous system. These herbs are helpful if stress is causing anxiety. • Rhodiola is used to help relieve stress, anxiety, and fatigue. • Tulsi (Holy Basil) as well as having benefits for the digestive and respiratory tracts, Tulsi offers stress relief and anti-depressant effects. Other tips and ideas: • Keeping blood sugar levels stable is very important, as rising and falling blood sugar levels causes the adrenal glands to pump out stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. Avoid these fluctuations by having small meals regularly, include protein in each meal, avoid sugary and processed foods, avoid stimulants such as coffee, and always eat breakfast in the morning. • Concentrate on foods which are high in B Vitamins and Magnesium. B Vitamins and Magnesium can be found in foods such as nuts, seeds, wholegrains, and green leafy vegetables. • De-stress at the end of the day with the help of aromatherapy oils. They can be added to your Epsom salt bath, dabbed on pulse points, or sprayed on your pillow for their therapeutic effects and relaxing properties. • Come to the Health Zone Clinic for a relaxing massage, and let our expert massage therapists melt your stress away