What to Eat When Stressed

What to eat when stressed - (and what not to eat, too!): I know I am in trouble when I am so stressed, my dog starts looking like a roasted turkey dinner you see in those vintage cartoons.

What to eat When Stressed...

The key for me, and this takes discipline, is to not have access to junk food in the house. Simply I know I am in trouble when I am so stressed, my dog starts looking like a roasted turkey dinner you see in those vintage cartoons. But, you can't eat what you don't have! The flip side to this is key: always have healthy and nutritious foods at the ready - especially for those extra challenging days.

When the dust settled and I looked back at what I devoured during my "stress banquet," I realized I didn't even taste what I was eating! I basically inhaled anything I could easily get my paws on. I always felt worse after these moments.

My problem is that I am wired to do something, anything, when I am in an anxious state. I need to feel as though I am in control. I believe the ultimate caveman interpretation of control is attacking a Buffalo and eating it!

I don't have access to buffalo where I live, and I can assure you if I left my house carrying a spear I would be writing my articles on the wall of a state facility. So instead I open the pantry and begin "hunting."

Any chef would cringe at the food combinations I've come up with: A shot of corn syrup, smoked almonds, pimento stuffed olives and some smoked oysters. Some days I've seriously considered breaking into the packet of powdered gravy! Believe it or not, I have made a marked improvement in my stress eating. I used to make a dash to the local fast food drive through. You know you need help when they know you on a first name basis.

I now keep fruits and vegetables at the ready as well as homemade, low fat/salt soups. I also discovered the power of the bean. Yes, I love beans. I will add them to my salads and soups and they will satisfy my hunger. Try the following recipe for my white bean spread. I will dip carrots or celery in it or spread it over a sandwich in place of mayo. It has many uses!

What to Eat When Stressed
Ted's White Kidney Bean Spread
1 16 oz. can white kidney beans (drain & rinse)
3 tbs extra virgin olive oil
1 clove minced garlic (optional)
1 tbs fresh mint
1 tbs fresh cilantro
juice of 1/2 lemon
2 tbs fat free Greek yogurt
salt & fresh ground black pepper to taste

Combine all ingredients in a food processor and puree (keep refrigerated).

Eat in good health and ENJOY!
- Ted Stefanski

What to Eat When Stressed and More Ways to Love Your Body