New year, new great things as well as new problems, which means more stress! But there are certain things you can do to reduce your stress, and stay healthy.
Exercise is a major stress reliever. Physical activity increases the release of endorphins, giving you a feeling of well being. In addition to endorphins, it can increase your self-confidence and lower symptoms of mild depression and anxiety, and help you sleep better!
Some foods can help you too:
- Avocados and bananas both have potassium, which plays a key role in keeping your blood pressure down.
- Salmon and other fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help keep your adrenaline levels in order to stay calm
- Nuts like almonds, pistachios and walnuts have immune system boosting properties and contain vitamins and zinc.
- Chocolate lovers rejoice! Dark chocolate may lower levels of stress hormones, and release serotonin, a mood-improving hormone.
Try out this delicious salmon burger recipe from eatingwell.com. We like to add a small slice of avocado for added creaminess!
Ingredients
- 1 pound wild salmon fillet, skinned
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped red onion, or scallion
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon finely chopped peeled fresh ginger
- 1/4 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
- 1/8 teaspoon freshly ground pepper
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, or canola oil
Preparation
- With a large chef’s knife, chop salmon using quick, even, straight-up-and-down motions (do not rock the knife through the fish or it will turn mushy) until you have a mass of roughly 1/4-inch pieces.
- Transfer to large bowl and gently stir in onion (or scallion), cilantro, ginger, salt and pepper, being careful not to over mix.
- Divide the mixture into 4 patties, about 1 inch thick.
- Chill in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours) before cooking.
- Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the burgers and cook until browned on both sides and just cooked through, 4 to 6 minutes total
Per serving:
Calories: 239
Fat: 13g (2g sat , 6g mono)
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 26g