HOW TO PRESERVE WELL-BEING WHEN YOU ARE IN THE TRENCHES OF SURVIVAL MODE

Sep 11

FEELINGS: UNCERTAIN, OVERWHELMED, SCARED, ANXIOUS,

AND FRUSTRATED.

The first thing to note is that these are all normal feelings because the truth is, there is a lot going on. When you wake up thinking about everything from how the economy is falling apart, climate change, political polarization, or even if the laundry has been moved from the washer to the dryer, it starts to take a toll on our mental and physical well-being. In our fast-paced modern world, burnout has become an all-too-common issue affecting people of all ages and backgrounds. As a professional holistic nutritionist, I can help individuals tackle burnout through a holistic approach to wellness. In this blog, we’ll explore what burnout is, its causes, and most importantly, how holistic nutrition can be a powerful tool in preventing and alleviating burnout.

UNDERSTANDING BURNOUT:
Burnout is a state of physical, emotional, and mental exhaustion caused by prolonged stress and overwork. It can manifest as physical symptoms like fatigue, headaches, and digestive issues, as well as emotional symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, and a sense of detachment from work or life in general. To combat burnout effectively, we need to address its root causes.

ROOT CAUSES OF BURNOUT:
1. Nutritional Deficiencies: Poor nutrition can weaken your body's ability to handle stress. Lack of essential nutrients can lead to low energy levels, mood swings, and compromised immune function.
2. Chronic Inflammation: Inflammation in the body is often linked to stress and poor dietary choices. Chronic inflammation can contribute to feelings of fatigue and malaise.
3. Blood Sugar Imbalances: Spikes and crashes in blood sugar levels, often caused by a high-sugar diet, can lead to mood swings and energy fluctuations. (And yes I am referring to that extra sweet latte in the morning).
4. Adrenal Fatigue: Prolonged stress can lead to adrenal fatigue, where the body's stress-response system becomes dysfunctional. This can result in chronic fatigue and burnout.

HOLISTIC NUTRITION STRATEGIES TO COMBAT BURNOUT:
1. Balanced Diet: A balanced diet rich in whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats is the foundation of holistic nutrition. These foods provide essential nutrients and antioxidants that support your body's resilience against stress.

2. Blood Sugar Management: Focus on stabilizing blood sugar levels by avoiding excessive sugar and refined carbohydrates. Instead, opt for complex carbohydrates, fiber-rich foods, and regular meals and snacks.
3. Incorporate Adaptogens: Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha and rhodiola can help your body adapt to stress and reduce the impact of burnout.
4. Hydration: Dehydration can exacerbate feelings of fatigue and low energy. Ensure you're drinking enough water throughout the day.
5. Mindful Eating: Practice mindful eating to cultivate a healthy relationship with food. Pay attention to hunger and fullness cues, savor your meals, and reduce emotional eating.
6. Support Gut Health: A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for overall well-being. Incorporate probiotic-rich foods like yogurt and fermented foods into your diet.
7. Manage Portions: Overeating can lead to digestive discomfort and energy crashes. Be mindful of portion sizes and avoid eating to the point of feeling overly full.

Burnout is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach for prevention and recovery. Holistic nutrition plays a pivotal role in this process by addressing nutritional deficiencies, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall well-being. As a holistic nutritionist, I encourage you to explore these strategies and consult with a professional for personalized guidance on your journey to combat burnout and achieve lasting vitality. Remember, small dietary changes can make a big difference in your overall health and resilience against stress.