A good diet helps avoid stress

Common knowledge may attribute sickness and disease to physical causes like bacterial infection, food habits, late nights, lack of exercise or genetics. But studies indicate that at least 25% people tend to develop disease from mental stress.

Common knowledge may attribute sickness and disease to physical causes like bacterial infection, food habits, late nights, lack of exercise or genetics. But studies indicate that at least 25% people tend to develop disease from mental stress.

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However, stress is an unavoidable part of life. Researchers estimate about 80% of major illnesses like cancer, skin disorders, cardiovascular disease and even backache are related to the mind. Stress hormones (cortisone and cortisol) suppress the immune system, making the body an easy prey to cold and respiratory infections. It accelerates the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, causing the body to excrete amino acids, potassium and magnesium, leading to cramps and muscle fatigue. Thus, most people who are mentally drained experience aches in their body.

Dietary support

Limit your coffee intake as caffeine contributes to panic attacks and nervousness.

Increase intake of raw veggies and fruits. They are rich in flavonoids and help neutralise harmful free radicals.

Avoid carbonated drinks, fried foods, refined foods made from white flour, sugar, processed foods as they add to the body’s toxic overload.

Dr Anjali Mukerjee, a Mumbai-based nutritionist