Your diet affects the way you feel emotionally and physically! Below are some examples of foods that can trigger stress reactions, and diets that can drain you of the energy you need. Following these examples, are lists of foods that can help to relax and/or energize!

Caffeine is the most common. Two hundred and fifty milligrams per day is considered excessive and can cause anxiety, nervousness, irritability, diarrhea, irregular heartbeat, inability to concentrate, and upset stomach. A six ounce cup of coffee typically contains around 108 milligrams of caffeine; tea usually contains nearly 90 milligrams in every six ounces, while a 12 ounce cola contains around 60 milligrams of caffeine. Chocolate is also a heavy source of caffeine, usually containing 20 milligrams of caffeine in every ounce! It should also be noted that many people can be affected by amounts of caffeine much smaller than 250 milligrams. People who suffer from ongoing anxiety can produce a panic reaction with the caffeine from one candy bar or headache relief pill!

White sugar and white flour deplete various important B vitamins from your system, resulting in the same symptoms described under caffeine above! If you eat pastry items such as cake, cookies, or donuts three to four times a week, add white sugar to your beverages or foods at least once a day, and/or eat candy or something sweet at least once a day, your diet is is likely a reason for some of your feelings of stress and anxiety!

Salt causes fluid retention which can increase nervous tension and high blood pressure levels. Again, if you add salt to your food most of the time, or eat chips, pretzels and/or salted crackers at least once a day, your diet may be one of the culprits behind those "stressed-out" feelings you may have been experiencing!

While the caffeine and sugar products above may give you a temporary and short-lived boost, this lift is usually followed or accompanied by anxiety or fatigue. The following foods, heavy in protein, can truly help to energize your mind and body!

Lean beef, chicken without skin, fish, peanut butter, cottage cheese, yogurt, cheese (dairy products should be low fat), peas, beans and tofu.

Fresh fruits and vegetables, such as oranges, grapefruits and broccoli.

Remember, low fat, high protein breakfasts energize, while fatty breakfasts only make you tired! If you feel like you don’t have time for breakfast, try something quick and easy like a protein bar or protein shake.

Carbohydrates and starches can help to calm and relax. However, if you are

feeling tired or fatigued, make sure to include some of the proteins noted above, as carbohydrates can make some people tired. Below is a list of some foods that soothe!

Breads, corn, crackers, pasta, potatoes, rice, nuts, cereals, grains and seafood.

Remember to eat your meals slowly. Sitting down and enjoying your meal, taking smaller bites and chewing your food longer can also be calming and can assist in digestion!

Try to drink eight 8 oz. glasses of water a day. Water can help to control your appetite and works as a cleansing agent for your body!

Eat breakfast and make an effort to eat three meals a day. This helps to keep your blood sugar balanced, and can maintain your energy level.

Consult with your personal physician about what vitamin supplements may be of particular benefit for you!