This post was written for Harness Magazine.

It seems stress has become a norm in everyone’s daily basis. I am always asking myself how I can be more physically and mentally healthy so I feel more relaxed instead of stressed. Working with women in helping them with hormonal issues, I know that we are all trying to tackle this issue. When you are experiencing a stressful time in your life, it’s time to focus on your physical health which will impact your mental health.

Research has shown that women are more likely to feel anxiety than men. Also, 18.1% of the American population report times of anxiety. Conventionally treatment has lead physicians to prescribe medication that come with a host of side effects. However, there are many natural ways to alleviate anxiety. Unchecked stress can inhibit you from reaching your goals. There are ways to help yourself.

Stress on A Woman’s Body

When a woman’s body is triggered by every day stressors, her hormones are affected. Here are a few ways stress affects your hormones and health.

1. It causes vitamin and mineral deficiency. When you have too much cortisol, it will strip your body of essential nutrients, which impacts your thyroid and blood sugar regulation. The key nutrients that is depleted but needed during this time are b-vitamin, omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium.
2. It messes up your blood sugar levels. Your adrenals go on a rollercoaster when you have too much sugar, coffee, carbs and alcohol. This produces cortisol, which then affects the cascade and levels of your hormones. For example, your luteal phase lengthens, progesterone levels decrease, and PMS symptoms increase.
3. A disrupted gut flora. Your gut has harder time metabolizing hormones such as estrogen. Additionally, it does not have the proper flora to eliminate toxins and hormones out of your body, leaving you bloated, gases, brain fogged, and much more.

Supplements Needed to Combat Stress

1. Omega-3 Fatty Acid. Research has shown that omega-3 are part of the building blocks of hormones. When you are under stress, hormones are depleted so nourish your body by providing more essential fatty acids. They can also be mood-boosting!
2. Magnesium prevents extra cortisol and calms the nervous system. This mineral can also help control insulin production which reduces blood sugar spikes and sugar cravings.
3. Vitamin B5 helps regulate the body’s stress response by directly stimulating adrenal cells.

Stress affect on our hormonal health is serious stuff. A variety of factors can help like de-stressing lifestyle techniques, eating nutrient-rich whole foods, and prioritizing sleep and activity. It’s right to feel and radiate health and happiness.