This Stress Awareness Day we're looking at some of the ways to support yourself when going through long or short periods of added stress. There are some amazing supplements that can support you during this (as well as in times of usual day to day activities).
Remember that coupled alongside taking supplements it is imperative to eat a clean unprocessed diet. Food is essential to health and wellness, and keeping a stable blood sugar is key to how we cope with stress. Sleep is also so important in managing stress, avoiding blue light for an hour before bed and going to bed a similar time every night can have a huge impact on our quality of sleep.
My go to supplements on a daily basis include
· Magnesium (glycinate form preferably) – Take 300-500mg a day. Avoid oxide forms of magnesium.
· Omega 3 – Bare Biology is a favourite of mine, but if using other ones, check the DHA/EPA levels and look for at the quality (their credentials etc). We have a podcast episode all about this on Nourishing Lives
· Vitamin D – I love the Nutri Advanced vitamin D with K, vitamin K is needed to assist with vitamin d absorption. And this one use also uses an MCT suspension (rather than seed oils) in a liquid form.
Additional supplements for stressful times or to support the mind
Supplements that contain the B Vitamins alongside adaptogens such as Lions Mane, Rhodiola and Siberian Ginseng in particular. MindLab Pro (by Performance Lab) is a great example of this. But there are others as well.
Supporting Sleep
If sleep is poor and you are already adding in Magnesium, try adding in Ashwagandha as well to your daily routine and see if your sleep quality improves.
Essential Oils
Often forgotten but can be hugely helpful. Sprays for the room that contain lavender, peppermint, ylang ylang and rosemary can be helpful in relaxing the mind and at times tension headaches as well.
A final note
Supporting the gut, may not seem like an obvious place to focus on when stressed, but your gut-brain connection is very real. So good gut health can make a huge difference to how your resilient your mind is when there are moments of extra pressure and stress. Add in pre and pro biotic foods, and nourish your body with healthy fats, quality sources of protein and lots of plant colour.