❌ Alcohol - Increases the production of stress hormones which can lead to high blood pressure, irregular heart beat, blood clots and many more health problems. Furthermore, affecting your ability to reach a state of deep sleep.
❌ Sugar - Increases your blood sugar levels which your body balances by secreting cortisol also known as the ‘stress hormone’. This can cause mood swings, food cravings and headaches.
❌ Refined Carbohydrates - Contain high amounts of sodium which result in your body storing more water. As with sugar, refined carbohydrates spike blood sugar levels which can lead to rising health problems such as type 2 diabetes.
❌ Caffeine - Is a stimulant which increases your heart rate and blood pressure by stimulating the nervous system. Caffeine also reduces the production of serotonin also known as the ‘happy hormone’.
✅ Chamomile Tea - A relaxant with high amounts of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
✅ Salmon - Contains a very high amount of vitamin D, Omega-3 fatty acids (DHA) and (EPA) which regulate the levels of serotonin and dopamine in the body which result in a calm and relaxed state.
✅ Yoghurt - Some contain healthy bacteria and probiotics that aid in improving mental health and overall well-being. Probiotics restrict free radicals (unstable atoms that can damage cells) and neurotoxins in the brain.
✅ Dark chocolate - Rich in flavanols and antioxidants that are very beneficial for brain function. Dark chocolate also increases the production of serotonin (happy hormone).
✅ Turmeric - Contains cucumin which is a powerful compound for promoting brain health and countering anxiety. Also helps the body synthesis the Omega-3 fatty acid docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in the brain.
✅ Green Tea - Contains a high quantity of the amino-acid called L-Theanine. L-Theanine reduces cortisol (stress hormone) levels and increases the hormones dopamine, serotonin and GABA. Green Tea also reduces your heart rate and increases the control of the sympathetic nervous system also known as the ‘fight-or-flight response’.