Protecting Your Nervous System from Stress

In today's fast-paced world, constant advancements in various sectors demand our undivided attention, focus, and quick decision-making. This relentless pace at work and home is often accompanied by stress. Without providing the body with necessary rest, we risk falling into chronic stress, which depletes the nervous system's reserves and can lead to psychosomatic issues like hypertension, peptic ulcers, gastritis, migraines, and chronic fatigue syndrome.

Understanding Stress
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), stress is a non-specific (general) response of the body to strong stimuli, be it psychological, physical, biological, or a combination. There are two types of stress: positive (eustress) and negative (distress).

Eustress is the result of positive emotions and experiences. It boosts overall vitality, mobilizes the body, and positively impacts fundamental physiological functions.

Distress, on the other hand, is the harmful form of stress. It has a predominantly destructive impact, leading to nervous system depletion. When its resources are exhausted, chronic fatigue syndrome sets in. Symptoms like headaches, constant tiredness, apathy, memory issues, mood swings, and sleep disturbances are common. Often mistaken for simple overwork or lack of sleep, these symptoms frequently indicate chronic fatigue syndrome and require professional intervention.

Preventing Harmful Stress Effects
Physical Activity: Aim to stay active with at least 10,000 steps a day. Find a type of exercise that you enjoy. Physical activity supports nervous system health, enhances memory, focus, and sleep quality.

Sleep: Adults need 8-10 hours of sleep per night. Sleep helps restore the body's resources necessary for active living.

Balanced Diet: A varied and balanced diet is crucial. Include proteins, fats (both animal and plant-based, with polyunsaturated fatty acids like omega-3), carbohydrates (simple and complex), dietary fiber, vitamins (especially B vitamins), and minerals (notably iodine, selenium, magnesium, and zinc).

Positive Mental Attitude: Learn to handle both positive and negative events calmly. Look for the positive in every situation.

Hobbies and Interests: Engage in activities that bring joy and distract from problems.

Essential Nutrients for the Nervous System
The nervous system relies on B vitamins: thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pyridoxine (B6), folic acid (B9), and cyanocobalamin (B12).

Vitamin B1 and B6 are particularly vital. They participate in biochemical processes essential for each cell's function and the transmission of nerve impulses.

In addition to vitamins, several minerals help shield our bodies from stress:

Magnesium: An essential component of every cell, it regulates muscle function, the cardiovascular system, and nerve cells, enhancing resilience to stress and physical exertion.
Iodine: Crucial for thyroid function, it supports growth, repair, and metabolism in all cells, including nerve cells.
Zinc: An important antioxidant, it is involved in cell growth, division, and metabolic regulation.
Selenium: The top antioxidant mineral, part of powerful enzymes that protect cells from oxidative stress, vital for the nervous and cardiovascular systems.
By incorporating these practices and nutrients into your daily routine, you can effectively manage stress and protect your nervous system, ensuring better overall health and well-being.