My Natural Health Blog

 Posted by Tracy Harris

Our nervous system is the most complex of our body systems. Our entire body relies on messages to be sent around the entire body so that it can run smoothly. We never have to really think about breathing, eating, sleeping, thinking, moving etc but our nervous system controls it all. Any long or short term stressful situation can cause imbalance in our body. Our digestion can slow down, our hormonal levels can change and our body can be in a state of hyper stimulation similar to when we experience shock.

Managing stress is a key point to maintaining health. Nutritionally make sure that you eat regular meals and try not to graze. Often time seems to be against us and we forget to eat or grab something close by that causes our body sugars to spike and drop. Making sure you have a good breakfast with oats, fibre, fruit or protein such as grain bread with poached eggs can stabilise this and provide the energy we need for longer. Fibre is hugely necessary to slow sugar release down. Make sure you always have some healthy snacks so that you can eat during morning tea and afternoon tea times. Almonds mixed with sunflower seeds and raisins makes a great snack, also fruit, or rice crackers and hummus.

Don’t eat too late as under stress our digestion can slow down considerably and weight gain or loss of appetite can cause us to upset our intake of nutrients. Protein is very important to the diet but it is the food group which can take the longest to break down. Therefore reflux, digestive upsets and weight fluctuations can be typical symptoms for people who are stressed. Altered hormone levels can increase PMT and Menopausal symptoms too. Make sure you get enough sleep. This can be difficult during stress as the mind does not wish to sleep and the adrenal glands are still firing adrenaline and cortisol at the time we need our body to relax.

Here are some bullet points with things you can take to address stress in the body:

Sleep disorders – 5HTP and Magnesium

Nervous system relaxants such as Chamomile, Skull Cap, Valerian, Magnesium and 5HTP

Adrenal Gland support – Dr. Christopher’s Adrenal Formula or Vitalise 7-AS

Magnesium, Calcium, Zinc and B vitamins and Co-Enzyme Q10

These supplements for the adrenal glands are especially important to help the body keep up with the demands it is put under during stress. B Vitamins, Zinc and Magnesium can also assist in hormonal balances and energy production too. Remember using aromatherapy oils in the home can have a very relaxing effect. Lavender, Chamomile and Orange oil are all very uplifting and yet calming. You can use the oils to massage, bathe, or burn in a diffuser. Fish oils are great for brain function and depression. Omega 3 capsules have a huge array of health benefits but one area is in the treatment of ADD, mild depression and concentration and brain function.

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