7 ways to keep stress at bay
Stress is a normal part of life. Experiencing bouts of stress every now and then may not be all that bad, but too much of it can badly affect your body and cause serious health problems.
“Increased levels of stress can lead to numerous health consequences like heart disease and depression, which is why it’s important to know how to manage it properly,” says MediCard president Dr. Nicky Montoya, hence he shares simple ways to deal with stress:
Identify stress triggers
By recognizing the problems, habits and bahavior that cause stress, it will be easier for you to handle them, thus lowering your level of stress.
Eat a balanced diet
When people experience stress, they often tend to eat sugary and fatty food. However, consuming these in large portions will make you lethargic, which may in turn make you feel less motivated to deal with stress. This is where low-fat, high-fiber and low-glycemic index food and plenty of fruits and vegetables come in handy, as they help reduce stress by increasing the body hormones that naturally fight it.
Get enough sleep
Sleeping allows the body to recharge and recover from the day’s stressful events. Medical practitioners strongly recommend getting six to eight hours of shuteye daily.
Exercise
Engaging in physical activities not only keeps stressors at bay but also improves your mood and increases your endorphins, which may help relieve pain and trigger a positive disposition. You may go to the gym or take a short walk near your home or office.
Get a massage
According to research, a massage can help release endorphins, lower heart rate and blood pressures, as well as relax tight and painful muscles.
Communicate with someone
One of the best and simplest ways to handle stress is talking the situation through with someone. Opening up about your condition to a loved one—even for a minute—can significantly improve your mood.
Take deep breaths
Relaxing and taking deep breaths have been proven to effectively fight off stress. Dr. Montoya suggests taking 15 minutes every day to sit and meditate.
Surya Fitness & Yoga, located at MediCard Lifestyle Center in Makati City, offers hatha, vinyasa, ashtanga and basic yoga classes.
How can a nutritionist keep your family healthy
Sick? You probably need to consult a nutritionist.
Instead of self-medicating or going straight to the doctor, we probably need to ask a nutritionist when a family member gets sick or experiences recurring discomfort.
They can determine which nutrients your body needs
Mostly, sicknesses and infections are caused by lack of nutrients since each body requires different vitamins and mminerals to function properly. To help you achieve optimal health, nutritionists conduct a variety of tests to see which nutrients your body needs to boost your wellbeing and fight infections and diseases.
They can help you lose weight
With the help of a nutritionist, you can shed those extra pounds you’ve been wanting to lose safely and effectively. They can evaluate your lifestyle as well as eating habits to give you a personalized health plan that suits you.
They can help you prevent illnesses
Another reason for consulting a nutritionist is to help you prevent certain health problems or conditions, especially if you are predisposed to having illnesses due to family history. They can recommend changes in your diet and lifestyle to prevent such things from happening.
They can identify your food allergies
They can offer advice on food that is safe to eat, ensuring that your body will still get adequate nutrients even if you stop consuming those identified as triggering your allergies.
They can be your health coach
A nutritionist can serve as your coach who can teach you how to make healthy decisions and cook delicious, healthy meals.