Eat without stress to combat the stress

Stress has been called by doctors the XXI century disease, studies demonstrate that stress has come to represent the main factor that triggers serious illnesses such as heart disease, hypertension and gastrointestinal ulcers. The same studies included stress in the category of factors that cause obesity. Such researches reveals, for example, that over 25% of Americans are heading to the fridge more often because of stress and anxiety caused by the economic situation.

Stress affects the body's immune system and, considering that a healthy immune system depends on a diet rich in nutrients, to be well feeded is one of the best methods of defense against disease, especially during a stressful period.

At the same time, stress can lead to fatigue and depression. And when that happens, healthy eating habits are mostly forgotten. It becomes easier to eat any food that is at your hand. But fast foods are full of fats, salts and sugars, there are not the nutrients that you need.

"It is a vicious cycle: excessive food leads to weight gain, which emphasizes the psychological stress resulting in weight gain which increases the risk of disease," added Dr. Luigi Gratton. A healthy diet will help our body to combat the stress. Dr. Luigi Gratton explains the basic principles of eating and ability to combat stress as:

Balanced meals
Include easy protein in every meal , chicken meat, fish, soy products. Add fresh fruits, vegetables and grains. Protein shakes are an easy alternative to have a healthy fed without the stress of unwanted calories.

Regular meals
And without skipping a meal. When you're stressed is easy to delay a meal, but the energy is impaired. If stress leads to loss of appetite, try to eat small amounts of food more often throughout the day.

The food does not reduce stress
A short walk or a cup of herbal tea could have effect. If you feel the need to eat, crunchy foods helps to release stress by putting to work the jaw muscles. Try a handful of almonds, raw peanuts or carrots.

Meal can be a pleasant moment
Enjoy a meal outside the office or away from the other sources of stress. Keep a few minutes to relax at the table - you'll eat less and you will rest more.

About Dr. Luigi Gratton
Dr. Luigi Gratton is a graduate of the University of California, Los Angeles with scientific studies and master's degree in public health. He received his medical degree from Mount Sinai Medical School of New York University. At the same time, Dr. Luigi Gratton is responsible for nutrition and diet for football team L.A. Galaxy, at which plays David Beckham.