Stress and anxiety sometimes feel like our constant companions in the busy lifestyles that we lead. Do you find it challenging to keep up with the responsibilities at work, home, and in the community? You aren’t alone. It’s estimated that more than 40 million adults in the United States suffer from the most common mental illness: anxiety.
Habits for Good Mental Health
While modern medical treatments can help with severe cases, don’t underestimate the power of healthy lifestyle choices. An unhealthy lifestyle takes a toll on your physical and mental health, especially when you are following these poor habits for years. When you are ready to get ahead of your stress and anxiety, then you need to be prepared to implement a few essential practices for good mental health:
- Balanced Diet: Regular healthy eating habits help to keep your blood sugar balanced. This strategy avoids the highs and lows that happen when your blood sugar spikes and drops. Add clean protein into every meal and snack, and make sure to avoid refined carbohydrates that interfere with blood sugar management.
- 8 Hours of Sleep: A good night’s rest helps you wake up feeling energized and refreshed. If you are overly tired, then it can lead to mood swings and other mental health challenges. Make it a priority to get into bed at a reasonable time, so you have enough hours in the night to get a full 8 hours of sleep.
- Cut the Caffeine: When you are drinking too much coffee or caffeinated soda, it can increase blood pressure and make you more prone to anxiety. Some people find that their anxiety levels spike when weaning off caffeine, but it’s worth the effort for the long-term peace you will experience after breaking the addiction.
Stock Up on Healthy Snacks
Having healthy snacks on hand not only helps you stay ahead of your weight loss goals, but these snacks can benefit your mental health as well. Nature’s Garden offers a variety of snacking options that are high in antioxidants, omega-3’s, vitamins, and minerals. Keep our delicious trail mix snack packs on hand so you can enjoy snacking and minimize your anxiety at the same time.
