In moments of stress, it is common to turn to comfort foods like burgers, chips and chocolate. We are all guilty of doing this. It may provide momentary relief but may not be the best solution to deal with stress. In fact, recent research suggests that consuming these foods may do more harm than good. Instead of reducing anxiety, they may worsen it by increasing anxiety! According to the findings, the junk food that you think is giving you happiness is actually making everything worse, as well as making you gain weight.
Read this alsoOranges can relieve stress: Know how to include them in your diet
Researchers at the University of Colorado at Boulder studied the link between a diet rich in fat and sugar and increased levels of anxiety. Their study, published in the journal Biological Research, revealed a worrying connection: a diet rich in saturated fat disrupts the balance of gut bacteria in animals. This disruption, known as dysbiosis, triggers changes in behavior and affects brain chemistry through the complex gut-brain axis. These changes ultimately contribute to increased levels of anxiety.
In their experiments with mice, the researchers found that mice fed a high-fat diet (HFD) showed signs of neuroinflammation and anxiety-related behaviors. This result underscores the broader implications of dietary choices beyond physical health, highlighting important consequences for mental health as well.
Also read: Nutritionist reveals 10 easy ways to curb sugar cravings – know what they are
Eating junk food increases weight.
Photo Credit: iStock
Relation between obesity and stress:
The study further highlights how obesity, which is often associated with HFD consumption, is linked to anxiety – a prevalent issue in today’s urban societies. Recent research suggests that the serotonin system in the brain as well as the microbiome-gut-brain axis play a key role in shaping this relationship. The diversity and composition of the gut microbiome, especially as influenced by diet, emerge as important factors influencing mental health.
During the study, one group of mice ate a standard diet, while the other group was fed a high-fat diet composed primarily of saturated fats. As predicted, the high-fat diet caused the mice to gain weight and decrease the diversity of their gut microbiota – a sign of potential health decline. Specifically, there was an increase in Firmicutes bacteria and a decrease in Bacteroidetes, a change often associated with diets prevalent in industrialized societies and linked to obesity.
The research findings are shocking as well as alarming for all stress eaters. If you are one of them, nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar has given practical advice to avoid stress eating. According to one of her Instagram posts, she recommends choosing three nutrient-rich snacks to effectively manage stress-induced cravings. (Note: These suggestions are not a part of the study above)
Here are 3 foods that help fight stress:
1. Peanuts:
Rich in vitamin B6 and magnesium, peanuts are a satisfying afternoon snack that can help ward off the bloated feeling often caused by stress. Here are some delicious ways to eat peanuts.
2. Cashews:
Cashews, known for their iron and magnesium content, provide instant energy when consumed before bed or to energise during lethargic moments.
3. Dried Coconut
Dry coconut, which gives a feeling of fullness, can be eaten with jaggery or included as chutney in lunch to avoid unnecessary snacking. Click here to see some interesting recipes made from coconut.
By choosing healthier options and avoiding high-fat, processed foods, you can improve your health both physically and mentally.
#eat #junk #food #sweets #stressed #increase #anxiety #Study
