LO Solutions 10 Tips to Ward of Stress: Did you know that less stress may
help you reach your health goals more efficiently?!

I often talk about stress with my clients (even before food) because stress hormones can mess up your metabolism and decrease critical thinking skills –which are vital to feeling good and making wise and healthy food and life choices . Continual stress reactions in your life causes and excess of adrenal and stress hormones in your body, which can wear you down over time - contributing to a host of stress-related health problems such as high blood pressure,  blood sugar surges, depression, heart disease and cancer (to name a few).  Here are 10 simple LO Solutions tips to help you ward of stress and create a more balanced you:

1. Eat primarily fresh organic fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Why organic? In short, less pesticides (which can create free radicals, which lead to such diseases mentioned above). Go to the web to search and find the top 12 fruits and vegetables that are most recommended to buy organic.
2.  Limit intake of "empty calorie" foods (those high in sugar and fat) as they leave less room for nutrient dense foods.  Non-nutrient dense food (i.e., junk food), can cause a spike in insulin and thus stress hormones, and create irrational thinking. Skipping meals can create the same issue. In short, you won’t feel good which produces a stress cycle.
3.  Exercise regularly - cardiovascular, resistance training and flexibility all count - I can put a routine together for you incorporating all three.
4. Get enough sleep (Yes, 8 hrs is still recommended). You DO need sleep and the time you go to bed matters too. I discuss sleep with all clients and help create effective sleep strategies.
5.  Practice a stress-reducing meditation or another stress reducing practice. Meditations can be short and effective, and I often help clients get started on this.  Breath, do yoga, take a bath, get a massage, do something just for you that calms your mind and body.
6.  Avoid overloading your senses—turn off all your incoming electronic information for one whole day: TV, radio, newspaper, email, phone, etc. The world will NOT fall apart. Turn off all devices at least 1 hour before bed to calm your nervous system. 
7.  Listen to relaxing music, or up-beat fun music. Dance around!
8.  Have fun: Laugh like you’re a kid again.  Look up a joke of the day and tell it.

9. Avoid alcohol, cigarettes and too much caffeine, which can all increase stress hormones.
10.  Supplement wisely. Don’t waste your money. Bring all your supplements in for a full consult and consolidation (of supplements) appointment. Don’t remember why you’re taking some or wonder if you should be taking them all? I can help you and give you some answers.

To Be Light: Light-heartedness encourages inspiration and happiness.  Take deep breaths and let your heart be your guide.  Have fun and generate laughter every day, not stress.