by Dr. Emilie Beaulieu, ND

Acai Berries

– are a fruit that has become more popular in supermarkets and through the media in the last few years. So what’s all the hype about this South American berry? It is an antioxidant that contains minerals, and good fatty acids. The acai pulp is where most of the nutrients is found. Acai berries have phytonutrients that is able to lift moods and helps to level out blood sugar levels.

Asparagus

– is a great vegetable that is full of folic acid which is a natural mood lightener. Eat it raw with dips or cook it as a side dish and soon you may feel your mood positively change.

Avocados

– are a delicious vegetable that helps to lower blood pressure. Cut them up in a salad or make some guacamole!

Chamomile or Peppermint tea

– has been used for centuries as a remedy to soothe upset stomachs or nausea. A warm cup-full will ease your unwanted aches and settle your stomach.

Blueberries

– are another fruit that can help boost your mood and calm your brain to restore normal functions. Blueberries are also a great snack to eat while studying or reading because they help the brain retain information. Studies have shown that blueberries can prolong Alzheimer’s disease and shrink cancer cells.

Milk

“Milk does the body good!” Its no joke, Drink your Skim Milk! Not only does it clam you after you consume a cup, but if you have trouble sleeping at night, a warm cup of milk will smooth you into a peaceful sleep. And for all you women out there… Drink your milk! Milk relieves those ever-changing moods PMS brings.

Peaches

those deliciously juicy fruit have a natural sedative that helps to relieve stress and anxiety.

Oats

contain carbohydrates that are absorbed slowly, and this enhances the serotonin-producing abilities of your brain. Serotonin is your body’s own stress-relieving chemical. So why not start your day with a bowl of ‘stress-free’ porridge!

Vitamin C

relieves stress by returning your blood pressure and levels of cortisol (a stress hormone) to normal levels. If you don’t like taking vitamin C pills, try to have an orange or grapefruit. Its best to have fruit over a glass of juice; manufactured juices are loaded with sugars and lose nutrients through the production process. 

Need a little pick-me-up?

A handful of mix nuts (Walnuts, brazillian nuts and almonds) will do the trick!

Walnuts help to restock vitamin B which is usually depleted from the body when under stress. From the Massage Magazine; Previous studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids–like the alpha linolenic acid found in walnuts and flax seeds– can reduce low density lipoproteins (LDL)–bad cholesterol. The researchers found walnuts and walnut oil in the diets lowered both resting blood pressure and blood pressure responses to stress in the laboratory. Brazilian nuts are loaded with zinc, so not only will it help to boost your immune system but it will also restore your body of the zinc that was drained by your anxiety.

Have chronic stress?

Almonds restore vitamin E, zinc and iron. Low iron levels cause fatigue, so store a little snack pack of mix nuts in your drawer, purse or car glove box for those mood booster moments. 

Start your recovery TODAY!