Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (338 page)

Avocados, which contain 14 minerals, all of which regulate body functions and stimulate growth. Especially noteworthy are their iron and copper contents, which aid in red-blood regeneration and the prevention of nutritional anemia, one very common cause of fatigue and inability to cope effectively with stress. They also contain sodium and potassium, and there may be links between potassium deficiency and susceptibility to stress.

Brown rice, legumes, parsley, and green vegetables, which are high in vitamin B. The B vitamins are needed for your nervous system to function and cope with the effects of stress.

Sprouts, green vegetables, and unrefined cereals containing magnesium, which appears to be depleted when there are high levels of stress in the bloodstream.

Sunflower and sesame seeds. Not only are sunflower seeds a rich source of potassium, they are also rich in B vitamins (in particular B
₆
and pantothenic acid) and zinc, which play a critical role in the health of the adrenal glands. Evidence suggests that during times of stress the levels of these nutrients can plummet.

Cabbage, which is a good stress-busting source of the antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E, beta-carotene, and the mineral selenium. Antioxidants fight the damaging effect of free radicals in your body, released in response to stress, and they also help the conversion of tryptophan to serotonin and thus play their part in boosting mood.

Almonds, which are rich in magnesium, which is especially important for supporting adrenal function as well as in the metabolism of essential fatty acids. Low levels of magnesium can be associated with nervous tension, anxiety, irritability, and insomnia. Soak them overnight for easy digestion.

Berries. Blackberries, strawberries,
and raspberries are rich in manganese and vitamin C. Insufficient vitamin C can weaken your immune system and make you feel generally stressed and run down.

Cucumbers are wonderful digestive aids and have a purifying effect on the bowel and the liver. They are packed with nutrients, vitamins (vitamins A, B, and C), and minerals (calcium, phosphoros and iron), which have a marvelous effect on the skin. When the liver is properly nourished it can help to balance hormones, boost mood, beat stress, and deliver vibrant health.

AVOID

Caffeine. This is found in coffee, tea, chocolate, colas, etc. It causes the release of adrenalin, thus increasing the level of stress. Caffeine addicts wear out the stress hormone-producing adrenal glands. These stress hormones interfere with metabolism. It is suggested that there is a link between caffeine intake and high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels. Furthermore, both tea and coffee act as diuretics, so they flush out many vital nutrients and trace elements.

Alcohol, which is a major cause of stress. Alcohol and stress, in combination, are quite deadly. Alcohol stimulates the secretion of adrenalin, resulting in problems such as nervous tension, irritability, and insomnia. Excess alcohol will increase the fat deposits in the heart and decrease the immune function. Alcohol also limits the ability of the liver to remove toxins from the body. During stress, the body produces several toxins. In the absence of its filtering by the liver, these toxins continue to circulate through the body, resulting in serious damage.

Sweets. Sugar has no essential nutrients. It provides a short-term boost of energy through the body, resulting possibly in the exhaustion of the adrenal glands. This can result in irritability, poor concentration, and depression.