How does nutrition play a part in dealing with stress?
• Planning out healthy snacks and meals that include whole grains, fruits & vegetables, lean protein sources, and sources of calcium will provide better nutrients for the energy you need during stressful times. • By planning snacks and meals, there is less of a tendency to grab the first thing available, which might not be the best choice. Also, by planning in some snacks, there is less of a chance that you will overeat at the next meal. • Try to think about what you are eating and set time aside for your meal or snack to prevent emotional eating and mindless snacking. • Calories do count! An extra 500 calories/day can add a pound per week. • Nutrition information at http://mypyramid.gov and http://healthierus.gov. What role does exercise play in stress reduction? • Stress brings on fatigue and physical weakness. By fitting in some exercise and physical activity, you will actually have more energy because your body is working more efficiently. • Physiologically, your heart doesn’t have
