"Stress impacts diet, and diet impacts stress," says Lisa
Dorfman, director of sports nutrition at the University of
Miami. The physiological changes that anxiety causes -- namely
the release of hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol --
affect the way we metabolize energy and use food. But certain
nutrients and ingredients can help reduce the effects of stress.
Here are Dorfman's suggestions on what to eat and why. What You
Need: Antioxidants Where to get it: Colorful fruits and
vegetables -- berries, leafy greens, carrots, red peppers -- are
rich in antioxidant phytonutrients. How it helps: Antioxidants
help protect the body's cells from breaking down under stress.
What You Need: Omega-3 Fatty Acids Where to get it: Fatty fish
(such as salmon) and flaxseed are good sources of these
essential fatty acids. How it helps: Omega-3s are anti-
inflammatory and help regulate blood pressure. What You Need:
Magnesium Where to get it: The mineral is found in whole grains,
nuts, black beans, and spinach. How it helps: