The many species of microbes in our gut form a kind of ‘ecosystem’ which helps maintain healthy digestive and metabolic function. However, intestinal flora can become out of balance from antibiotic use, stress, illness or poor dietary choices and when this happens, it can affect our overall vitality and mood.

Being healthy doesn't have to mean missing out on treats but if you or your children have food intolerances or allergies, finding suitable and healthy ‘treat’ alternatives can be tricky. 

One of my children has food intolerances and doesn’t do well on sugar either, so when I tried this chocolate ice-cream recipe, I was so impressed with the creaminess and taste, I just had to share it!

It is dairy-free, gluten-free, sugar-free, egg-free, Paleo friendly and can be made low FODMAPS.

Our stress resilience helps us cope with everyday hectic situations like work deadlines, traffic and even loud noises. Magnesium is essential for healthy nerve function and is the most important mineral for coping with stress. Stress depletes our Magnesium levels and yet we need it for maintaining our stress resilience, so it becomes a vicious cycle.

How stress depletes your Magnesium levels

1.       When you experience stress, your body releases stress hormones, such as adrenalin. Adrenalin pushes Magnesium out of our cells. 99% of Magnesium is needed inside our cells and stress hormones deplete the cells Magnesium.

2.       Research shows that people who have high stress levels, experience loss of Magnesium through their urine. Stress hormones cause our kidneys to excrete more Magnesium than usual, further depleting Magnesium.

3.       When we become stressed, it also affects the digestion and absorption of nutrients from our food. When you are stressed you will have lower Magnesium absorption, so even if you are eating a wholefood diet rich in Magnesium, it may not be being absorbed.

Replenishing your Magnesium levels for better stress resilience

To break through the vicious cycle of stress and Magnesium depletion, it is important to supplement with a good bioavailable form of Magnesium. Because stress reduces Magnesium absorption, your diet may not be enough (at least initially) to replenish your Magnesium stores. Eating foods rich in Magnesium such as green leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds can certainly help. 

If left unchecked, chronic stress can cause our adrenal health and metabolism to crash.  A naturopathic consultation can effectively address the underlying factors involved including correcting nutrient deficiencies or imbalances, which might be causing un-wellness. 

By restoring your body’s Magnesium levels, you will cope better with everyday situations with a calmer and happier response, because your nervous system will be properly nourished.