Curious about what to eat when stressed?
Check out Redbook magazine’s article where Molly is featured as a health and wellness expert and gives helpful tips on this topic. Here are her top 5:
1. KALE SMOOTHIE
Or any smoothie that has a dark green, leafy vegetable (think Swiss chard or bok choy) at its base, really. They’re great sources of antioxidants and fiber for a much-needed energy boost, which will in turn help increase productivity—and hopefully decrease anxiety. Unlike processed or packaged food, these fresh veggies “produce an expansive, relaxing effect on the body, and help to relieve tension both mentally and physically,” says Lee. All hail, kale!
2. SWEET POTATOES DRIZZLED WITH COCONUT OIL
Lee recommends reaching for root vegetables because “they contain a ton of antioxidants that help fjght harmful free radicals and toxins, which form because stress causes inflammation and can weaken our immune system.” Not to mention the natural sweetness of the potato, coupled with the coconut oil, can reduce your craving for refined sugar—you know, that urge you feel to grab a cookie (or five) when things start to go haywire at work. Choose the cookie and you’ll likely feel even more depleted, and eventually more stressed, later in the day. But opting for this sweet side dish will leave you feeling satisfied.
3. SUPERFOOD SEEDS
Head to the health food section of your grocery store and stock up on oh-so-portable chia, hemp or sunflower seeds. “High in protein and omega-3s, these superfood seeds will give you real, protein-packed energy and help you focus,” says Lee. Snack on them solo, add ’em to a salad or blend into a smoothie for a quick fix. No more stressing because you waited until the last minute to finish a project.
4. QUINOA
High in fiber? Check. A complete protein? Check. “Quinoa also contains magnesium, which relaxes blood vessels, balances blood sugar and aids in the transmission of nerve impulses—all of which help keep your stress and cortisol levels under control,” says Lee. Here’s some fun ways to eat quinoa while still getting a comfort-food fix.
5. CHICKEN LETTUCE WRAPS
Spice up your classic lunch staple by swapping bread—which can make you feel sluggish and bloated—for lettuce. Lee says dark greens will help you stay clear and relaxed, while the healthy dose of protein from chicken will maintain your focus and calm. Plus, they’re just more fun to eat.
*Read the full article by Rosa Heyman, Redbook Magazine HERE
ABOUT MOLLY:
Molly Lee is the founder and director of Energizing Nutrition, an international holistic health and wellness practice. Molly’s passion is helping people thrive to their fullest potential and lead happier, healthier lives. She has been featured as a health expert in publications such as Redbook, Glamour and Muscle and Fitness Magazine. Besides health coaching, Molly loves to dance, fight and sing. She is an avid martial artist trained in wing chun kung fu and Brazilian capoeira.
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