When you are stressed, junk food may sound appealing and you may think it will offer emotional support, but the reality is, it does just the opposite. The refined carbohydrates found in junk food seem to keep cortisol levels high. Simple carbs such as sugar and white flour break down into glucose, which the body uses for energy. But if glucose levels are too high, our body perceives a state of stress and produces more cortisol.

Instead, turn to good carbohydrates to support your mood by stimulating the production of serotonin. Serotonin is the brain’s feel-good chemical.

For breakfast eat a whole grain product such as steel-cut oats with an apple and cinnamon added. See my simple recipe for overnight steel cut oats to save even more time in the morning to help with a stressful day. Pears also is a good complex carbohydrate and contains enough fiber to slow digestion and reduce the impact on blood sugar.

For lunch eat a large dark green leafy salad with protein such as tuna, chicken, or sliced steak. Then for dinner have a good lean cut of protein along with vegetables such as asparagus, broccoli, green beans, corn, and, if desired, add a nice green leafy salad. Always have your meals with a healthy fat such as healthy oils (Coconut, Peanut, Extra Virgin Olive Oil).  A really good way to do this is to have a salad dressing made with healthy oils such as MCT oil.