Can eating cause stress? According to a Science Daily article, Eating Causes Stress, but Antioxidants can Help, the answer is a resounding “yes.” However, the type of stress may be different than many think. The article explores how eating can cause stress as well as ways to reduce the problem.
Oxidative Stress
While many may feel stressed out after eating a plate full of fatty foods or a rich dessert, oxidative stress is completely another matter. Every time a person eats, free radicals are released into the body. The free radicals are commonly recognized as potentially cancer-causing agents.
When the digestive system is working, the body naturally releases molecules, some of which are potentially harmful. Oxidative stress is maximized when the individual eats foods that do not naturally balance the potentially harmful molecules. Antioxidants are the ideal complements to each and every meal.
Oxidative Stress Studies
One study conducted at the Argircultural Resource Service explored post-meal oxidative stress, using healthy women as volunteers. The study found that women who ate meals that did not have antioxidants showed less antioxidant capacity in their blood plasma samples. This comes as no surprise to many.
However, the researchers also gave grapes to other women eating the same meal. Simply adding grapes to the menu helped to prevent the decline in antioxidant capacity from happening.
Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity
The oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) is measured in units that were created by the National Institute on Aging, which is part of the National Institutes of Health. Many describe some foods that have high ORAC units as “superfoods”. Basically, if the superfoods can combat oxidative stress by increasing the body’s ability to neutralize the molecules before they can do any damage.
The ORAC units are sometimes referred to a oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC) scores. Various foods and supplements have been given ORAC scores according to their affect on the body.
The validity of the ORAC scores has yet to be determined but common sense should prevail. Anyone who incorporates foods that are rich in antioxidants can expect relief from oxidative stress, hence the term “antioxidant”. In addition, the foods listed with the highest ORAC scores tend to be naturally healthy in every capacity, with fresh fruits and vegetables among the most prominent.
Can Eating Cause Other Types of Stress?
This question is particularity difficult to address because the answer is more psychological than physical. Many people have difficultly dealing with food, as it becomes a source of anxiety and guilt. Common problems that may arise from an unhealthy relationship with food include eating disorders.
However, eating does release serotonin, creating a sense of calm and wellbeing. Unfortunately, this feeling occurs as the individual is eating but disappears soon after, leaving behind negative emotions and stress.
The relationship between stress and food requires more exploration. Creating a healthy lifestyle involves developing a stress-free relationship with food that begins with making healthy choices.
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