Kick off the weekend with a mood boost and soothed muscles when you eat the foods that are wired to do the trick. And no, chocolate isn’t the only one equipped to do so.
WATER FIGHT
Sugar has long been a legitimate go-to for stressful moments, and justifiably so. With it’s ability to release endorphins, hormones that make you relax and smile, chocolate-ly sweet snacks can make any frustrating deadline go away…temporarily. However, researchers at the University of Chicago recently discovered that plain old water may have the same effect. Add a green tea bag for extra giddiness.
PAIN KILLER
As if being hunched over your computer rushing to meet a deadline isn’t enough stress, flu season is upon us. Don’t be surprised if you feel achy and only in the mood to curl up with a Snuggie. To help you make it to the couch more easily, fill your refrig with foods replete with phytochemicals, which protect your immune system and promote resistance to certain diseases. Fall is full of them. Try a warm winter squash with apples, cinnamon and a splash of agave nectar or honey. It will tickle your endorphins also.
Or make a salad or hot soup with a few of these pain-fighting foods:
Dark leafy greens vegetables, carrots, sweet peppers, leeks, pumpkins, tomatoes, peaches, oranges, tumeric and thyme.
Omega 3 fatty acids not protect your hair and nails, but also minimize inflammation and speed up recovery time.
- Eggs fortified with omega-3 fatty acids.
- Wheat germ and other whole grains
- Flaxseeds and flaxseed oil
- Deep water fish–herring, salmon, sardines, mackerel
- Walnuts, Brazil nuts
- Pumpkin seeds
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Avocados
