4 Stress-Stopping Snacks

By Mary Langfield, Certified Holistic Health Coach dedicated to increasing awareness to improve your health and outlook on life.

Tell your typical comfort foods to hit the road and opt for these healthier snacks when faced with your next bout of stress. Instead of mac and cheese, chips, or other fat and carb-heavy foods, choose an easy snack that will leave you feeling healthier, lighter, and happier. Think of snacks as mini meals that allow you to maintain your energy. 

For the best bang for your buck, choose a combo of protein + fat + carbohydrates. 

This combo will keep you satisfied and energized longer. Mix up the recommendations below.

1. Berries: These flavorful fruits, such as blueberries, are loaded with vitamin C and high in antioxidants and fiber. Just one cup of berries provides all the disease-fighting antioxidants you need in a single day, boosting your immune system during the cold season, promoting cell health, and combating stress. Berries also quell future hunger pains, thanks to their high fiber content that leaves you feeling full long after you eat. 
2. Almonds: These super snacks are loaded with a slew of healthy vitamins and mood-enhancers such as vitamin B, zinc, and vitamin E. They also cleanse your body with antioxidants and heart-healthy fats. 
3. Yogurt/Kefir (Plain, Unsweetened): Whether fresh or frozen, yogurt is a great alternative to other creamy impulse-eats such as ice cream because it offers your body a helping of probiotics (active live cultures that help to balance your digestive system and inhibit toxin-producing bacteria in your body) while uplifting your mood with a hearty helping of tryptophan, a chemical that aids the creation of the fog-clearing and mood-enhancing chemical serotonin. 
4. Lean Proteins: Resist the fried chicken and fries and have an egg or some low-fat cheese as a snack instead. Lean protein is great for maintaining a healthy mood because it helps to stabilize your blood sugar, which fluctuates when you’re under stress. 

Still crave something sweet? Eating a little dark chocolate everyday can actually be good for you, keeping cholesterol down and reducing the risk of clogged arteries.

If you’re interested in learning more about how little changes to your routine and diet can transform your life into something happier and healthier, contact me today to learn more about holistic health coaching!