Calming foods in advance of Leaving Cert results

September 3rd is D-day for those waiting for Leaving cert results. This will throw many homes into chaos during this incredibly stress-inducing period. So what could you eat that may help lower the temperature and calm those fraying nerves. Some may reach for comfort foods like chocolate, sweets and a good old fry but stop; think about it these choices tend to make you feel good for a little while… but then comes the sugar slump! So in order to avoid the rollercoaster of moods and fortify you, to keep you as cool as a cucumber long term here are a few suggestions.

· Switch to Low GI, sounds very technical however what this means is go for high fibre versions of foods, where the energy will be released slowly into your body, keeping your blood glucose level on a more even keel and more importantly leaving you feeling less anxious, irritable and edgy. Low GI foods include granary type breads, wholegrain, fruits and vegetables.

· Choose the rainbow of fruits, especially fresh fruit which are packed with Vitamin C and the B vitamins. Low levels of these vitamins have been linked to depressive moods; it fortifies your immune system making you ready for anything!

· Keep well hydrated, even a small amount of dehydration your mood drops, concentration drops and you get more irritable. So make sure to have at least 8-10 cups of fluid per day (approx 2 litres). If the weather is hot adding some frozen lemon or cucumber to water is a good way to cool it down and add flavour. Fluids can be any type of liquids (apart from alcohol!) but beware the caffeine rich drinks such as coffee, tea and colas, although they may make you feel alert; too much makes you feel ‘jittery’

· Keep active, I know this isn’t food but the more active you are the healthier your brain is, making it easier to cope with everything life throws at you.

· Alcohol, as a depressant, mixed with stress isn’t a great combination. The best advice is (if you are over 18 obviously) stick within the limit – they are no more than 17 units per week for men and 11 units per week for women. Best of luck!

Cara Cunningham MINDI is a Community Dietitian.For more information, please contact Maria at: The Community Nutrition and Dietetic Service, HSE CHO 8 telephone (044) 9395518 or email community.dietitians@hse.ie.