Over the years there have been numerous studies examining the benefits of sound nutrition and, like most things in life, these studies often contradict one another leaving us wondering where the truth actually lies. In general however there is agreement that a healthy and balanced diet plays an important role in lowering stress.

It is also generally agreed that, when a diet is not particularly well balanced, supplements can be helpful. For example, serotonin is a chemical that is produced in the brain which aids in inducing calm and, in the case of a poor diet, taking a supplement that helps the brain to produce serotonin can help the body in combating stress.

Timing is however important and, as serotonin levels are normally naturally higher in the morning and lower in the late afternoon, you can assist your body by either by taking supplements in the late afternoon or by enjoying a late afternoon snack which will aid the body's natural production of serotonin. Try some pretzels or a baked potato, both of which are low in fat but healthy.

For a few individuals excessive eating, especially of high fat foods, is the solution to stress. However, food that are high in fat tend to slow down or inhibit serotonin levels and so often have just the opposite effect to the one you want.

Another result of excessive eating is that of weight gain and, as an increasing number of people are finding nowadays, being overweight is a sure road to stress and even to depression. The solution is thus both a sensible and balanced diet and a reasonable amount of exercise.

Eating sensibly and exercising will have the double benefits of both lowering the production of stress-inducing chemicals within the body and of improving the way you look and feel, which will without doubt lift your mood and provide a sound barrier against stress.

Another to watch out for is the habit many of us have of missing meals. When you find yourself under stress you will usually find that this lowers your appetite and it is a very matter to begin skipping meals. Whether you are stressed or not, set yourself a regular routine when it comes to mealtimes and stick to it.

Additionally, try to make mealtimes into a 'break' in your day and set your problems on one side while you are enjoying a meal. Use this as a time, specifically set aside to relax and for focusing your attention on the good things in life. You will undoubtedly find that when you have finished your meal the world will be much calmer.