According to Shelley Boles, a nutritionist and author of the study, alcohol, fried foods, caffeine, refined carbohydrates, and foods high in sugar and salt can stimulate the production of stress hormones—particularly cortisol—she wrote in an article for the medical journal WellnessPulse.
Numerous studies have shown that diet and stress can directly affect one another. According to nutritionist Boles, consuming large amounts of cookies, bread, processed sweets, and sugary drinks on a daily basis can trigger an increase in blood glucose levels. Some scientists believe that fluctuations in blood sugar levels can lead to negative mood changes, such as anger, anxiety, and irritability.
A significant drop in glucose levels after an initial rise often leads to a loss of energy. This reduces performance and makes it difficult to complete daily tasks (such as professional obligations), which in turn exacerbates anxiety and stress.
The doctor reminds us that foods which cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels can also trigger inflammation in the body. Both reactions can lead to the production of stress hormones, particularly cortisol. The most obvious causes of inflammation in the body and elevated blood sugar levels are refined carbohydrates (such as white bread, pasta, and flour) and alcoholic beverages.
General inflammation in the body can also be exacerbated by excessive salt, fried foods, and caffeine. Conversely, lean proteins in chicken and cottage cheese, healthy fats in nuts and fish, and fiber-rich vegetables and fruits have anti-inflammatory effects.
