What is hidden stress?
Hidden stressors can include blood sugar swings, food intolerances, chronic infections, environmental toxins, and often even things we consider to be healthy like sports or being on a diet. They put just as much of a burden on the adrenal glands as any other stressors. If you struggle with chronic stress or anxiety, you may be considering supplementing your treatment with a good consultation. Let’s learn a few things you can do to avoid the big ones.
Limit quick sugars
Things like soda, candy, various energy bars, and juices might be helpful after exercise to refuel but they are not a good idea when sitting in the office or in front of a TV. Sources of quick sugar create intense blood sugar swings that are stressful for the body, especially if they happen often.
Don’t overdo it with exercise
Exercise is healthy and you should do it! But you can have too much of a good thing. Exercise always damages and exhausts your body to an extent and that’s good because it’s a signal to repair and improve. But if don’t give your body enough time and good food to recover, it will only continue breaking down which is a big stressor.
Avoid frequent dieting
Calorie counting, food logging, and hopping from one diet to another can be very stressful for you and your body; it can actually do more harm than good. If you want to change your eating habits you should get a nutritionist or read and educate yourself well to do it right. Find a way of eating you’re willing to do long-term and stick with it.
Control your alcohol intake
A glass of wine in the evening can help you relax but it can also hurt your sleep quality and put a strain on your liver. You have to be aware of how much alcohol you drink and keep the quantity in check. Some of us do just fine with one drink a day but others have to quit regular drinking altogether to limit stress.
Manage your food allergies
If you have even a mild allergic reaction to a food item, it can become a big source of stress over time. Especially foods containing chemical additives, grains, legumes, nuts, seeds, or dairy can cause inflammation in the gut for some people. If you get bloated, gassy, or feel unwell after eating some of the above-mentioned foods, consider cutting them out for 30 days to see if you feel different.