Day 6

Subject: Keep calm and eat fruit and vegetables, [firstname]

Hi [firstname],

Sometimes life can get pretty stressful, and if you're like most people, your first reaction is probably to reach for junk food to get a quick sugar “hit”.  We're told sugar is the best way to fuel our brains in times of stress.  I remember when I was in high school being told to eat a candy bar before exams to help boost my performance. 

We live in more enlightened times now!

So in today's installment, I want to talk about healthy things you can eat to help deal with stress.

First off, when you need to snack on something, try some nuts. Nuts are packed full of B vitamins and potassium.  Nuts like Almonds, Pistachios, Walnuts, Cashews, Pecans, Macadamia Nuts, Brazil Nuts and Hazelnuts are best as they are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids – which have been shown to reduce surges of stress hormones.  A bag of mixed nuts from your local health food store sure beats a sugary candy bar from a vending machine hands down.

If you're under more sustained stress, add spinach to your diet. This leafy-green vegetable is high in magnesium. People with low magnesium levels are more likely to have elevated C-reactive protein levels and research shows people with high CRP levels are more stressed and at a greater risk for depression. Beans and brown rice are also good sources of stress-busting magnesium. 

Likewise, start your day with a bowl of oatmeal. Oatmeal can reduce levels of stress hormones and also result in a boost in serotonin, which stimulates a feeling of calmness.

You don't need too much caffeine when you're stressed, so skip the coffee and go for a calming cup of tea instead.  Teas including Chamomile, Mint, Barley and Passionflower can all induce a feeling of calmness and tranquility at times of stress, as well as having other, soothing effects depending on which kind of tea you drink.

Warmly

[Your Name]

PS. There's still time to grab a copy of of my guide to the miraculous power of fruits and vegetables.  Here's the link: [link to sales page].
