Food is nourishment. How well are you nourishing your body? We now have strong data on the importance of diet and the key role it plays in stress reduction and work-life balance. There are eight nutrients and foods that I keep a special eye on as part of my diet. Just being mindful of these foods will dramatically change your health risks, not to mention, how you feel!

8 Nutrients Your Body Needs!

1. Vitamin B6. Vitamin B6 helps the body to manufacture brain chemicals such as serotonin. Serotonin is a healing, calming hormone produced by the brain that is essential for coping with anxiety and panic. It also boosts the immune system. A leading source of vitamin B6 is sweet potatoes, bananas, mangoes, tuna, sunflower seeds, salmon, turkey, chicken, rice, and barley.

2. Lycopene. The American College of Cardiology reports the lycopene, the red pigment in tomatoes, can reduce heart disease risk in middle aged women by one-third. Lycopene may also reduce the risk of breast and cervical cancer.

3. Omega 3. Fish is a major source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Research shows that people who eat fish regularly have less chronic disease and live longer than those who do not. A study found that Greenland Eskimo women have no breast cancer. Fish is a major staple to their diet and the Omega-3 is an estrogen receptor blocker. Fish consumption is also related to a lowered risk of depression.

4. Green tea. Powerful antioxidants (polyphenol) are prevalent in green tea. Studies suggest that it is protective against certain cancers and tooth decay and may lower cholesterol or reduce cardiovascular risks.

5. Peppers & spices. Turmeric, ginger, oregano, cayenne pepper, and rosemary—these spices and herbs control inflammation caused on by stress. If untreated the inflammation creates disease in our bodies.

6. Garlic. Garlic boosts the immune system and lowers the inflammation that can lead to disease.

7. Cruciferous vegetables. Many studies are showing us that there are cancer-protecting properties in broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, brussels sprouts.

8. Blueberries. These berries are brain food that speeds neural communication and prevents cell death. Blueberries help release dopamine, a calming, healing chemical in the body.