It’s the middle of summer, and that means time for vacations and relaxation! Of course, this can also be a stressful time of year. You might be scrambling at work while everyone else is out of the office, or working double-time to make up for your own lost week off. Between traveling, family, and the chaos of life amid vacationing, don’t be too surprised if you find your stress levels higher than usual.
One easy way to help manage stress is to nourish your body. When you’re stressed, your body ramps up production of hormones like epinephrine and neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin. To make these hormones and messengers, your body needs nutrients like amino acids from protein, B vitamins, omega-3 fats, and more.
Your diet doesn’t have to be pristine, but consuming whole foods with these and other vital nutrients will help offset the stress response you’re experiencing while also setting your body up for a greater chance to recover.
This week’s meal plan is rich in these and other vitamins, minerals, amino acids, healthy fats, and fiber.
Here’s your meal plan for the week:
Monday
Take the pressure off meal prep with this tasty Easy Slow Cooker Paleo Chicken Mole. It’s rich with aromatic spices and filled with healthy amino acids and antioxidants.
Tuesday
Turns out that this Paleo Diet classic recipe is a stress-busting superstar! Eggs, like in this Paleo Start Up Breakfast, contains choline, B vitamins, and selenium, all of which support healthy cognitive and thyroid health.
Wednesday
Ramp up your omega-3 anti-inflammatory fats with this Salmon with Scallions & Sesame recipe. Broiling gives your fish nice charred edges, and the garlicky lime sauce just takes a minute to whip up. Since sesame is a potential allergen, feel free to leave it out, or use poppy seeds instead!
Thursday
Celebrate taco Thursday this week with a hearty Marinated Skirt Steak Taco Bowl. Red meat might not be the best thing to eat every day, but it’s got plenty to offer when it is on the table! It’s a good source of heme iron, which supports good energy levels, and contains B vitamins, which are important for neurological support.
Friday
Serve up healthy one-skillet Lemon Chicken with Artichoke Hearts tonight. Artichokes are a good source of prebiotic fiber, which is good for your gut. This in turn contributes to a healthy mood and mind, because a good part of your nervous system lives in your digestive tract!
Saturday
Leftovers day! Save your sanity and enjoy whatever’s in your fridge.
Sunday
Dig into this magazine-perfect Crustless Spinach and Mushroom Quiche for breakfast, brunch, or even dinner. Have some picky eaters? Add mushrooms to only half of it or get creative and make it in muffin tins instead of a bigger pan.
What to Eat This Week: July, Week 2
By Aimee McNew
