High levels of cortisol in the body can increase stress. Oftentimes, the foods we consume in our diets can also cause inflammation in the body, leaving us feeling tired and drained. Excess stress and inflammation can also trigger chronic disease and slow weight loss. Nutritionist Simrun Chopra, who continues to share diet and nutrition tips and advice on her Instagram profile, shared how to rid your body of inflammation and regulate your cortisol levels. Read also | A woman who lost 19 kg in just 3 months shares her golden rule of weight loss: The secret is in your lunch
A few weeks ago, Simrun shared a post talking about the need for a healthy diet that can reduce cortisol and inflammation in the body. “A stressed and inflamed body will make you feel sluggish and tired. Makes you move less. Feeling less motivated, making weight loss difficult, especially in the stomach area,” read Simrun’s caption as she went on to list six foods to add to her daily diet:
Foods rich in magnesium:
Magnesium helps balance cortisol and helps relax and regulate the nervous system. High cortisol levels at night affect sleep quality, and this is where magnesium helps. Dark leafy greens, nuts, seeds, dark chocolate, cocoa, legumes can be added to the diet. Read also | The fitness trainer who helped Anant Ambani lose weight reveals why everyone is ‘suddenly switching to intermittent fasting’
Vitamin C:
Vitamin C can help significantly reduce cortisol levels. Amla, citrus fruits, bell peppers, strawberries, kiwi and broccoli can help add vitamin C to your daily diet.
Foods rich in L-theanine:
Foods rich in L-theanine can quickly reduce cortisol levels in the body. It also helps improve sleep, acts as an anti-inflammatory food, and can help us feel more relaxed. Green tea, black tea, matcha tea, and oolong tea are some foods rich in L-theanine.
Foods rich in phosphatidylserine:
Foods rich in phosphatidylserine work by protecting the brain’s nerve cells, which help with memory, cognition and how we deal with stress. Eggs, fatty fish, organ meats and white beans should be added to the diet.
Foods rich in omega-3:
Omega 3 helps reduce inflammation in the body. Oily fish, seaweed, flax seeds and walnuts are rich sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. Read also | Nutritionist who lost 28kg reveals her diet and shares factors behind her dramatic weight loss
Probiotics:
Fermented foods such as cottage cheese, yogurt, kombucha, kanji and fermented vegetables are rich in probiotics. They support the intestines, thereby helping with inflammation.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor for any health concerns.
