Everyone knows exercise is a great stress-buster, but equally as important is your body's fuel. Add these herbs and supplements to a healthy diet to de-stress and regain clarity.
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Recommendation |
Rationale |
Notes |
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A daily multivitamin |
Helps fill in the gaps of a nutritionally poor diet. |
Look for one rich in calcium, zinc, bioflavonoids, and selenium. |
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Essential fatty acids (EFAs) |
Improve mental processing and increase calmness, which lead to a greater ability to handle stress. |
Foods rich in EFAs include seeds, nuts, and cold-water fish, such as salmon and mackerel. |
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Rhodiola |
Reduces stress and fatigue, improves memory, enhances concentration, and increases overall well-being. Also stimulates the immune system and enables the body’s defenses to ward off effects of stress. |
Another adaptogenic herb that helps combat stress is eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus; 2,000–3,000 mg daily; also known as Siberian ginseng); however, you should take either rhodiola or eleuthero—not both. |
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Theanine |
Promotes relaxation and helps optimize physical and mental performance during stressful times. |
An amino acid, it’s found naturally in green tea. |
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Vitamin C |
Decreases the secretion of stress hormones and helps boost the body’s natural defenses. Also supports the formation of collagen (what tendons are made of) and helps fight infection. |
Foods rich in vitamin C include oranges, broccoli, brussels sprouts, and kiwi. People suffering from kidney stones should avoid excessive amounts of vitamin C. |
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Sources: James Rouse, ND, and Kim Erickson, herbalist. |
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