Eight Great Munchies to Help You De-Stress, Slim Down

Stress can be a top factor in weight gain and an expanding waistline. Luckily, you've got a little help this month, as April is National Stress Awareness Month.

Stress boosts production of cortisol, which can increase your cravings for sugary, high-carb treats. Plus, cortisol triggers an enzyme in fat cells, particularly those in the abdomen. The higher your stress, the more belly fat you accumulate. So, in the spirit of the observation, here are eight great tasting treats that can help you de-stress and slim down.

1. Asparagus: It's high in folate, which can help stabilize your mood and reduce depression, anxiety and panic.
2. Avocados: Speaking of folate, avocados have more than any other fruit. Plus, they're rich in lutein, beta-carotene, vitamin E and glutathione, a substance that blocks intestinal absorption of certain fats that cause oxidative damage.
3. Berries: All berries, including strawberries, raspberries, and blackberries, are rich in vitamin C, proven to be helpful in combating stress. But blueberries have the highest levels of an antioxidant known as anthocyanin, which has been linked to multiple positive health benefits, including sharper cognition.
4. Oranges: A vitamin C powerhouse.
5. Oysters: An order of six provides more than half the RDA of zinc. That's important because low levels of zinc have been linked to anxiety and depression.
6. Cashews: They're another top source of this stress-busting zinc. And because our bodies can't store zinc, cashew snacks are a great way to make sure you get a good daily dose.
7. Oatmeal: As a complex carbohydrate, oatmeal kicks up your brain's production of serotonin, the feel-good chemical that has antioxidant properties and creates a soothing feeling.
8. Walnuts: Tufts University researchers found that animals that ate walnuts reversed some signs of brain aging. Plus, walnuts contain alpha-linolenic acid, an essential omega-3 fatty acid, and other polyphenols that have been shown to help prevent memory loss.

Want weight loss and stress management tips? Metabolic Research Center can help you develop a customized nutrition, exercise and healthy lifestyle plan. Call 800-501-8090to find the nearest Metabolic Research Center.