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Winter is still upon us, which means that we all need to be extra careful about our stress levels, which, when elevated, can increase your chances of getting sick.
When you get stressed, your body releases hormones called cortisol and epinephrine that can cause weight gain, sleeping problems, fatigue, anxiety, depression, heart problems and memory impairment. It can even cause some serious digestive issues!
Once the perceived threat has passed, your hormone levels will return to normal.
If you can't seem to eliminate the event, person, or environment that's stressing you out right away, you might find that food can easily help curb some of the effects of high stress levels.
Walnuts, for example, have omega-3 essential fatty acids, which have been shown to give you a mood boost and are associated with reduced rates of depression. Oranges and berries have also been shown to reduce stress with their high levels of vitamin C.
What's the tastiest way to reap the benefits of these tasty foods?
Smoothies, of course!
Check out some smoothies that will help reduce stress levels below:
1. Try this walnut, carrot, avocado, Greek yogurt, cinnamon, nutmeg, bee pollen, and almond milk smoothie!
2. This walnut, banana, spinach, almond milk, almond, and coconut oil smoothie looks incredible!
3. If you're looking for something with fewer ingredients, look no further than this walnut, fig, banana, and water smoothie!
4. If you're in the mood for something fall-inspired, try this walnut, pumpkin purée, Greek yogurt, coconut water, banana, ice, cinnamon, and pumpkin spice smoothie!
5. Try starting your day with this walnut, banana, raspberry, flaxseed, and granola drink.
6. Your best bet is this stress-busting walnut-topped smoothie made with pineapple, orange, and avocado smoothie.
What do you think about these smoothies? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
Photo Copyright © 2015 Emma Sanders/Instagram
