The war became a test of endurance for Ukrainians, and, it is worth saying, the majority of fellow citizens passed it successfully. But everything has its price. Life in constant anxiety has a negative effect on the body. You have probably heard this phrase more than once: "she has aged a lot because of the war." Yes, I had to see similar external changes in my acquaintances. This process can and should be controlled. Of course, it is impossible to get rid of anxiety (and it is clear why). But it is quite possible to control your condition and improve it. I will tell you exactly how nutritionist Olga Stepanova.
How does stress affect a person's appearance?
In general, stress is the body's reaction to a certain emergency situation (including emotional impact). In fact, it is very useful, because it protects our nervous and other systems from negative consequences. However, stress can affect a person's appearance in various aspects. Here are just some of the changes that life in constant nervous tension provokes:
- rashes, acne, spots and other manifestations that make the skin less healthy and attractive;
- hair loss or change in its texture and color;
- damage or even loss of teeth;
- a sharp increase or deterioration of appetite, which eventually leads to strong changes in appearance.
During stress, a person can use unattractive facial expressions: for example, clenched teeth, furrowed eyebrows. Due to frequent repetition, even these factors can change the appearance.
We learn to reduce the effects of emotional stress
"If you live "on the edge of panic", you need to do some serious work on yourself," advises the expert. — "Complex psychological help is needed here, as well as a change in condition and, possibly, lifestyle and habits."
If the negative emotional state is a short-term phenomenon (caused, for example, by air anxiety), first of all, calm your mind and body by focusing on your breathing. Taking deep and calm breaths can help reduce stress levels. In addition, try to perform consistent relaxing exercises to relieve muscle tension.
If the situation allows, physical activity, such as a walk or a set of exercises, can help reduce stress levels and improve mood.
Be sure to develop positive relationships. Relationships with people regulate emotional stress. It is important to find a way to communicate with loved ones or to share your thoughts with someone you can trust.
Try planning your day to reduce stress. It is important to define priority tasks. Additionally, review your standards and expectations. You should not live in illusions, but at the same time you need to accept the bitter truth, learn to live with this awareness and calmly react to this temporary condition.
What should be eaten to maintain beauty and health?
Can food affect the emotional state and appearance? Of course! After all, products are a source of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that regulate all processes in the body. So after working with your emotions and their factors, you should adjust the menu. Here are some healthy foods that you can include in your diet to maintain your beauty:
- Berries: Contains antioxidants that help fight harmful radicals that lead to skin aging. Add currants, raspberries, strawberries to the diet;
- vegetables with dark green leaves. Spinach, cilantro, and arugula contain many vitamins and minerals that help maintain healthy skin;
- fish. It contains a lot of Omega-3 fatty acids, which help maintain skin health and prevent inflammatory processes;
- avocado. It is a source of healthy fats that help moisturize the skin and prevent it from drying out;
- red and yellow paprika. It contains a lot of vitamin C, which promotes collagen production. This element is necessary for the health and beauty of the skin.
- nuts and seeds. Give the body many vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin E and selenium;
- green tea. Rich in antioxidants that prevent inflammatory processes.
- eggs The protein and vitamins in them help preserve the beauty of hair and nails.
- coconut oil. It contains healthy fats that moisturize the skin and hair;
- whole grains Contains useful elements to maintain a great look;
- fermented products. Beans, kefir and kimchi contain many probiotics, which are the source of youth;
- water. Helps to moisturize the skin and keep it healthy. Drink at least two liters of water daily to ensure adequate fluid levels.
"In general, to maintain beauty, you need to include a variety of healthy products in your diet and provide the body with a sufficient amount of vitamins, minerals and water. It is also necessary to avoid harmful products, such as sugar, fatty foods and alcohol," the nutritionist emphasizes.